Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is still scooting after anal gland expression. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I just got my dog’s anal glands expressed and the same day he is still scooting across the floor. Is this normal or are they full again?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 30th, 2018

They are likely not full again but may be a bit irritated due to the expression. If your dog keeps scooting for more than a day or two then I suggest you take him back to your veterinarian for a recheck.

Vote icon

53Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Maria DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 4th, 2019

    I am so sorry Callie is having this issue. I would recommend checking a urine sample to rule out urinary tract infection as this can be painful and can be 1 reason for this (although less likely). I would also discuss allergies with your veterinarian, have them recheck her anal glands (for inflammation or infection), and check a stool sample for insteatinal parasites. I hope Callie feels better soon!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 1st, 2018

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Sometimes after expressing the anal glands the expression can cause some irritation and dogs can scoot for several days after. If this continues for the next week, I would contact your vet to discuss other causes. Macy may have a food allergy causing the itching or intestinal parasites. I would have her feces tested and checked for intestinal parasites. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

    Vote icon

    11Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on August 10th, 2019

    The most common cause for scooting in dogs is allergies. In humans, our eyes and nose itch, in dogs, their anus itches - it's just another mucous membrane that can become inflamed. I would recommend discussing this issue with your vet. They can help you determine which type of allergy may be the culprit and which treatments may be most effective.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored