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Why is my dog constantly licking her rear end? What's going on?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Female | spayed | 7 years and 6 months old | 9 lbs

My dog is constantly licking her butt. What could it be?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 14th, 2017

There could be many causes for this, including anal gland irritation or impaction, allergies, or intestinal parasites. I would recommend that Scuzzle Butt get checked out by a vet to look for medical causes for the licking. If they can't find anything, they may recommend medications or a food change for allergies.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 20th, 2017

    Mindy could have inflamed anal glands but also allergies could cause this as well. I recommend starting with having her glands expressed again (preferably by a veterinarian but a groomer may be ok too) and if there's any issues she may need antibiotics and anti inflammatory medication. If this looks like it is due to allergies your veterinarian can prescribe long term control medication. You could try applying a warm compress to the area as well for relief.

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    Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 27th, 2017

    From what you are describing it sounds as though Cherokee may have an irritation in this region. The most likely cause are full anal sac glands. These can easily be expressed by a veterinarian. The vet can also check for other possible issues like anal sac impacts on or infection. It could also be that Cherokee is experiencing issues with constipation or large vowel discomfort. In the meantime you can try a gastrointestinal health supplement to see if it can help correct any abnormalities. I would suggest this veterinary tested supplement. Entero Trubenefits http://www.vrshealth.com/canine-products/?petcoach=1977955

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 27th, 2017

    Poor Tallulah! Certainly worms can be a cause of hind end irritation, but full anal glands can also be bothersome to dogs, causing them to lick their hind ends excessively. Anal glands are scent glands that typically empty with a bowel movement, but sometimes this does not happen. If left unattended, overly full anal glands can become impacted or infected. Tallulah should see her vet to have her anal glands expressed/emptied. Remember that not every dewormer treats ever intestinal parasite, so also consider having a stool sample analyzed.

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