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Symptom guide

Why Is My Dog Scooting on the Floor? Causes and Treatment

Dogs drag their bottoms along the floor because of anal gland problems, itchy skin, allergies or worms. What to do and when to see a vet.

Updated October 2026 · 5 min read · By the Hushku editorial team · 2 sources

Book a routine vet visit. Book a vet visit if it continues

Short answer

Scooting usually means your dog's bottom is itchy or uncomfortable. The most common cause is full or irritated anal glands; allergies, worms (especially tapeworm) and soiled fur are others. Book a vet visit if it lasts more than a day or two, and sooner if you see swelling, blood or your dog seems in pain.

Key facts

  • Full or irritated anal glands are the most common cause of scooting.
  • Allergies and tapeworm (spread by fleas) also cause an itchy bottom.
  • Soft stools and being overweight make anal gland problems more likely.
  • Don't squeeze anal glands at home unless your vet has shown you how.

This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. If your pet seems unwell, or you're worried, call your vet.

Overview

Dogs have two small anal glands (anal sacs) either side of the anus that release a strong-smelling fluid when they poo. If the glands don't empty properly, they become full and uncomfortable, and dogs scoot to relieve the pressure. Left alone, they can become infected or form an abscess that bursts through the skin.

Soft stools, being overweight and allergies all make anal gland problems more likely.

Go to a vet now if you see

  • A hot, swollen or bleeding area beside the anus
  • Straining to poo, or crying when sitting

Common causes

  1. 1. Full or impacted anal glands

    Usually mild

    The most common cause. Your vet can empty them and check for infection.

  2. 2. Anal gland infection or abscess

    Needs a vet

    A painful swelling beside the anus, sometimes bursting and bleeding.

  3. 3. Allergies

    Needs a vet

    Environmental and food allergies often cause itching around the bottom as well as paws and ears.

  4. 4. Worms

    Usually mild

    Tapeworm segments (like grains of rice) around the bottom can cause itching. Fleas spread tapeworm.

  5. 5. Soiled or matted fur

    Usually mild

    Poo stuck in long fur irritates the skin. Keep the area trimmed and clean.

What you can do at home

  • Check and gently clean the area; trim long fur around the bottom.
  • Keep up with flea treatment and deworming.
  • Don't try to express anal glands yourself unless your vet has shown you how.

When to see a vet

  • Scooting for more than a day or two
  • Licking or biting at the bottom
  • Swelling, redness, blood or a bad smell
  • Repeated anal gland problems (ask about diet and weight)

Prevention

  • Keep your dog at a healthy weight
  • Feed a diet that produces firm stools; ask your vet about fibre
  • Year-round flea control and regular deworming
  • Manage allergies with your vet

Free tools for this

Sources

  1. Companion Animal Parasite Council: Fleas
  2. MedVet: Atopic disease in dogs

We check guides against veterinary sources and update them when guidance changes. How we write and review.

Questions.

How often should a dog's anal glands be emptied?

Most dogs never need it; they empty naturally. Only empty them if your vet advises it for a dog with recurring problems, as routine squeezing can cause irritation.

Can worms make a dog scoot?

Yes, tapeworm in particular. You may see rice-like segments around the bottom or in poo. Your vet will recommend a dewormer that treats tapeworm and flea control to stop reinfection.

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