My dog won't stop licking his anus. What OTC remedies offer relief?

Question

My dog is continually licking his anus. He was recently seen by our vet, but we forgot to mention the constant anal licking. Is there anything over the counter we can use to relieve his discomfort? My husband has expressed his anal gland. Pet's info: Dog | Smooth Fox Terrier | Male | neutered | 2 years and 3 months old | 15 lbs

Ann Dion, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. I am sorry that Toby is having these issues. Licking of the anus can be caused by many things, including anal glands being full, food allergies, environmental allergies, as well as worms. When you express anal glands you can do it from the 'outside' or from the 'inside'. When you express from the outside you don't always get all of it out. Also, depending on what the consistency of the discharge from the glands will give you a clue if that is the underlying cause. If the anal gland fluid came out easily, was clear and liquid, this is unlikely the issue. If it was hard to come out, chunky, or darker brown/black, then he is having issues with his glands. I would make sure Toby is dewormed, not overweight (being overweight can lead to issues expressing anal glands normally), and if this doesn't work (or if he also scratches his ears and chews his feet), I would look into a diet trial for food allergies. It is also worth checking to make sure he doesn't have any masses around or in his anus/rectum. Having your vet do a rectal on him next time you are in is a good idea. Best of luck with Toby.

My dog won't stop licking his anus. What OTC remedies offer relief?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My pet's eye looks strange but doesn't seem to hurt. What's wrong?

Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?

Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?

Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?

Share