Why butt-dragging? You're getting worm

Q: My dog drags his butt on the carpet like he's trying to wipe it. I always heard that that means he has worms, but he takes monthly medication that is supposed to prevent them. What else could cause this behavior?

A: Pets who "butt scoot" could be trying to relieve the itch caused by tapeworm segments, which can irritate the anal area as they pass out of the body. If your dog is on a good flea-control program and takes medication to prevent intestinal parasites, this likely isn't what's causing him to try to scratch that uncomfortable itch.

More often than not, dogs (and cats) who perform this behavior are trying to relieve the pressure of fluid buildup in their anal glands. The anal glands produce the scent on feces that lets your pet tell other animals, "I, Smoky, own this territory, so stay away." Every time they poop, some of that scent is excreted with the feces. If the anal glands become infected or inflamed, that scent can't get out and fluid builds up. The area is sore and irritated, so they scoot.

Another possibility is that when your pet poops, maybe a little piece of stool gets stuck in the fur around his rear end. He may be scooting in an attempt to remove the clump.

If your pet scoots a lot, take him to the vet. His anal glands may need to be expressed - a stinky job that is best left to the professionals. If the cause is a fecal tag, give him a trim yourself (careful with the scissors in that sensitive area) or talk to a groomer about a sanitary cut.