Why does my dog lick his rear, whine, then act normal when playing?

Question

My dog has started furiously licking his anus, pulling his tail very hard, and panting quickly. He occasionally whines leading me to think he’s in pain. However, if I offer a treat or being playing with him, he immediately stops and acts totally normal. Until we stop the activity, then he goes back to the licking, biting, and whining like he never stopped. He only does this once every few days. I’m not sure what to do, he seems to be in serious pain and isn’t sleeping because of it. Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 9 months old | 80 lbs

Ann Dion, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Usually chewing at the back end or bum is caused by the following: 1. Full anal glands- these can rupture if not emptied 2. Flea allergy dermatitis (an over-reaction to fleas, so one bite from a flea makes them very very itchy all over, so you don't see fleas on them but they are reacting) 3. Flea infestation 4. Intestinal worms (lead to diarrhea and itchy bum) 5. Other possible causes exist as well. I recommend that you have him assessed by a vet to check his anal glands and check him for fleas. Also, if he is dewormed then a fecal test might be recommended, and if he isn't then a broad spectrum dewormer might be recommended. Best of luck with Jagger! I hope he feels better soon!

Why does my dog lick his rear, whine, then act normal when playing?

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