Home Remedies for a Dog’s Itchy Bum

Updated: May 01, 2023

Dogs do a lot of bizarre things, but scooting is definitely a bothersome behavior for some pet parents. Dogs scoot their bum across your floor or carpet, possibly leaving a stink or stain behind.

Scooting is not new to pet parents, but if you find your dog doing it often, they may have an itchy bum. Learn common reasons your dog may be experiencing this and how to help.

rectal itching

"To communicate with other dogs and animals, dogs have two sacs surrounding their anus that contain pheromones. These glands can become full and give dogs a painful, itching feeling. "

Causes of a Dog’s Itchy Bum

Here are some common reasons your dog may be experiencing discomfort.

Full Anal Glands

To communicate with other dogs and animals, dogs have two sacs surrounding their anus that contain pheromones. These glands can become full and give dogs a painful, itching feeling. These glands expel naturally when dogs go potty but sometimes they don’t. Furbabies occasionally need a little assistance. Squeezing the part close to the anus can be done to express the gland manually. The anal gland can become impacted if it is not expressed. This could be an unpleasant and costly condition for your furbaby. It can get infected or even burst if it is blocked. If you believe your dog's anal glands may be impacted or infected, consult your veterinarian right away.

You can also use Pet WiPees™ Gland, which were designed specifically to prevent against allergens and irritants that can bother the bum area in dogs. These wipes for dogs can be used as an anti-inflammatory to draw out irritants for inflamed, impacted, or irritated glands on your furbaby.

Matted Fur

Dogs with long fur are more likely to develop matting around the bum area or to have debris or feces get stuck in their fur when they go to the bathroom.

Food Allergies

Allergies can also causes your dog’s bum to itch. Food allergies are challenging since they can happen at any time and can become an issue even when your dog has been eating that food their entire life. Consult your vet if you suspect your dog is having an allergy to their food. Other symptoms of food allergies include skin rashes and hair loss.

Intestinal Parasites

Another frequently encountered cause of dog itchy bum is intestinal worms. Although some forms of worms can be seen with the naked eye, only a fecal test can determine whether or not parasites are present in your dog.

Home Remedies for a Dog’s Itchy Bum

Here are some ways to help manage your furbaby’s discomfort.

Provide Fiber

One home remedy for an itchy dog bum is to increase your furbaby’s intake of fiber. Pick foods and treats that contain extra fiber such like pumpkin, carrots, or sweet potatoes. According to the American Kennel Club, sweet potatoes provide an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps the digestive system function more effectively. Fiber will help bulk up your furbaby's poop and increase their urge to potty.

Increase Water

Raising your dog's daily water intake can also make them poop more frequently. Keep your furbaby hydrated to also help relieve dry or itchy skin that may be present on different sections of their body, especially around their bum.

Get Them Moving

Exercise encourages movement in your dog's intestines, resulting in more frequent bowel movements and a higher likelihood that the anal sacs will be emptied. Moreover, frequent exercise helps strengthen the muscles that might put pressure on the sacs, allowing them to empty more freely.

Soothe and Cool

Chamomile and green tea have calming and cooling properties. If your dog is scratching their bum area, pour some warm water into a tub or sink and brew several herbal tea bags for three minutes. Take out the tea bags and give your dog a wash for at least five minutes. You may also steep one or two tea bags in approximately two glasses of hot water. After the tea has cooled, apply it directly to your dog's itchy skin as a quick remedy. Rinse afterward.

Coconut Oil

Because of its antibacterial and antifungal qualities, coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer for dogs. Using coconut oil can help dogs with dermatitis, allergies, yeast infections, and even insect bites and stings. Massage the oil into your dog’s coat and skin for immediate relief from dry skin.

itching dog bum

"You may want to give your furbaby supplements like Probiotic SoftSupps® which are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help support proper digestion and absorption, promoting overall intestinal health."

Probiotics

Probiotics function by introducing beneficial microorganisms into the digestive system. These may also help your dog avoid constipation and firm stools. You may also want to give your furbaby supplements like Probiotic SoftSupps® which are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help support proper digestion and absorption, promoting overall intestinal health.