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Why is my incontinent dog's anus moving and causing discomfort?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Male | neutered | 16 years and 11 months old | 27 lbs

My dog has bowel incontinence due to DM. Vet says it can't be treated. Last night his anus was moving a lot. Usually when it's moving, poop would come out, but it'd still move when I touch his butt even after he was done and nothing was coming out. Is the anus moving because there is still poop in his system or it's moving for no reason? I gave him yogurt for constipation (since pumpkin doesn't work), but I can't tell if it's his tummy or anus that's making him anxious and uncomfortable.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2018

You can stimulate him to defecate by tickling his anus with an ice cube or q-tip with vaseline on it. I would make him defecate twice daily so he doesn't get constipated. If needed you can give him a soapy water enema to get him to go. If he still has anal tone like you are seeing he still has some control over the defecation. I recommend trying acupuncture to improve the fecal incontinence. Also doing hydrotherapy can maintain his function longer so you may want to find a veterinary acupuncture and rehabilitation veterinarian in your area. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Jackie.

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