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Dog dragging butt, not worms. What causes it and should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 4 years and 10 months old | 4 lbs

Hi, Mindy is on heartworm prevention and was tested and doesn’t have heartworm. But we moved To a place where her allergies got worse. I’ve noticed she is starting to drag her butt along the floor to itch it. What else can it be if it’s worms? And should I take her to the vet immediately? Thank you.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 4th, 2019

The most common cause for scooting is allergies, which could be to fleas, foods, or the environment. Other causes include anal gland irritation (often secondary to the allergies) and intestinal parasites. I would recommend having Mindy examined by a vet, but not necessarily as an emergency.

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