How to Stop Your Dog Scooting: Causes, Fixes, and When to Worry

There are few sights less dignified than a dog dragging their backside across your living room carpet. But scooting isn't a behavioural quirk, it's your dog telling you something's uncomfortable, and ignoring it doesn't make it go away.

The good news: most cases are related to diet and digestion, which means they're fixable without expensive procedures.

Why dogs scoot: the anal gland connection

Dogs have two small glands just inside the anus that produce fluid. In a healthy dog, these empty naturally every time they pass a firm stool. Problems start when stools aren't consistently firm, the glands don't empty properly, fluid builds up, and discomfort follows. The Royal Veterinary CollegeNotes that anal gland issues are among the most common reasons for vet visits in the UK.

The fibre connection

Nine times out of ten, the answer is fibre. Pumpkin is the classic recommendation, rich in soluble fibre, gentle, and effective. A tablespoon of plain pumpkin puree mixed into meals can transform stool quality within days. Prebiotic fibres like inulin from chicory root serve double duty, adding stool bulk while feeding beneficial gut bacteria.

Beyond fibre: why broader gut health matters

If fibre alone doesn't resolve things, look at gut health more broadly. Inconsistent digestion suggests the microbiome isn't balanced. Brands like Pooch & MuttAnd Buddy & LolaHave built strong followings in the UK specifically for digestive support. Our Full gut health guideCovers the broader approach.

Other causes worth checking

• Worms or parasitesespecially tapeworm. Check with your vet.
• Food sensitivitieschronic gut inflammation from intolerances perpetuates gland problems.
• Matted hair around the rearparticularly in long-haired breeds. A regular trim helps.
• Anal gland infectionswelling, redness, or discharge needs veterinary attention. The PDSA has clear guidanceOn recognising infections.

Should you get the glands manually expressed?

There's a school of thought that routine manual expression can make the problem worse long-term, gland tissue becomes reliant on external pressure and loses natural tone. The better long-term strategy is addressing stool quality and digestive health so glands empty naturally.

The practical fix

Add appropriate fibre to every meal. Support the gut microbiome with daily prebiotic fibre (2, 4 weeks for full effect). If still scooting after 3, 4 weeks of consistent dietary support, get a vet check to rule out parasites, allergies, or infection.