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Why is my dog dragging his butt on the floor? When to see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 90 lbs

My dog max is always rubbing his anus on the gloor

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on June 18th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be due to things such as an anal sac abscess, or just anal sac inflammation or impaction. Sometimes dogs can do this due to minimal impaction of the anal sacs and resolves on its own. I recommend that you continue to monitor Max for now. If this continues in the next day or two, have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Good luck and have a good night!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 4th, 2017

    Usually dragging the bottom on the ground is a sign of having full anal sacs. Anal sacs are two fluid filled sacs, scent glands similar to a skunk, on each side of the anal opening. They usually empty when the dog goes to the bathroom. Sometime the small openings get plugged and the fluid inside builds up and can cause irritation and infection. When the sacs are full they cause itching so dogs often lick the area and scoot on the ground. Please take Alfie to your veterinarian. They will express the fluid from the sacs and put him on antibiotics is there is an infection. If the fluid is not emptied sometime dogs will get an anal abscess that will rupture through the skin and be very painful. The other reason for dragging would be if Alfie has tapeworm segments around the tail area. These are small rice like segments that come out the anus and attach to the fur. Treating for tapeworms will resolve this. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Alfie.

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