- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Dogs do plenty of adorable and funny things, but some of their habits can be a little less charming.
Butt licking is one of these not-so-cute behaviors—but it’s still perfectly normal for dogs. Dogs lick their butts for a number of reasons, from regular grooming to health issues, says Dr. Ellen Lindell, a board certified veterinary behaviorist at Veterinary Behavior Consultations
Read on to learn more about why your dog is licking their butt, when to talk to your vet about it, and how you can redirect excessive licking.
6 Reasons Your Dog Is Licking Their Butt
If you occasionally notice your dog licking their butt, you generally don’t need to worry. Most of the time, this is just natural grooming.
But when the licking becomes frequent or excessive, it could suggest a medical concern. It’s very rare for dogs to lick their rear end for primarily behavioral reasons, according to Dr. Lindell. Usually, there’s something else behind the behavior.
Dr. Lindell shares the most common explanations:
1. Normal grooming or hygiene routine
Dogs naturally groom themselves, and a little bit of butt-licking is often just part of staying clean—especially after a trip outside. Some dogs are more particular about hygiene than others, so occasional licking isn’t usually a concern.
If you have a long-haired breed, like a Shih Tzu or Golden Retriever, check to make sure the hair around their anus doesn’t have any mats. Dogs with matting around their anus may be grooming themselves more in that area because these matts can be uncomfortable.
Regular grooming and trimming of this area can help keep your pup comfortable.
2. Anal gland issues
Anal gland diseases are another common reason why dogs lick their butt: As many as 15.7% of dogs have anal gland issues.
Dogs have two small anal glands that release a fluid when they poop. If these glands become clogged or inflamed, they can become irritated. Your dog may then lick this area to help ease the irritation.
Telltale signs of impacted anal glands include a strong, fishy odor, scooting, and excessive licking. If you notice these signs, your vet may need to express your dog’s anal glands manually.
Regular check-ups and a high-fiber diet can help keep your dog’s anal glands functioning properly and prevent future problems.
3. Digestive issues
Dr. Lindell says dogs having diarrhea or constipation may feel discomfort around the anus due to irregular bowel movements. They may lick this area more frequently as a result.
If you notice your dog straining to poop or having watery or unusual poops, you may want to make sure they haven’t eaten anything they shouldn’t and talk to your vet about their diet.
A good balance of fiber, hydration, and a healthy diet can keep their digestive system (and their butt) happier.
4. Parasites or worms
Dogs may also lick their butts more often if they have intestinal parasites, like tapeworms and roundworms. Dogs can pick up these unwelcome guests by sniffing or eating contaminated poop, fleas, or even infected soil.
If your dog has a parasite, you may also notice things like weight loss, a bloated belly, diarrhea, or tiny white specks that resemble grains of rice around their rear end.
A vet can diagnose the problem with a stool sample and prescribe deworming medication if needed.
5. Allergies
Allergies can cause itchy skin, including around a dog’s rear end. Foods, environmental allergens like pollen, and flea bites can all cause irritation.
Dogs with allergies may lick themselves constantly as a way to get some relief from itching. They may also have red skin and frequent ear infections and lick their paws as well as their butt.
A vet can help pinpoint the allergy trigger and may recommend dietary changes, medication, or other allergy treatments.
6. Skin irritation or infection
Dogs can get cuts, rashes, or even hot spots near the anus or the base of their tail, leading them to lick the area for relief. Irritated skin may appear red, swollen, or scabbed over. Infections can lead to oozing, hair loss, or a bad smell.
Fistulas, tumors, and abscesses forming in a dog’s perianal area—the anus and rectum—may also cause dogs to lick in order to soothe discomfort. They may also lick to relieve swelling, according to Dr. Lindell.
If you notice any irritation or signs of infection, you’ll want to take your dog to the vet right away so they can find the cause and recommend the right treatment.
When to Contact a Vet
Concerned about your dog licking their butt all the time?
It’s a good idea to take them to the vet if you notice signs that point to a medical issue, says Dr. Kat Pankratz, a board certified animal behaviorist at the Animal Behavior Clinic. These signs include:
- More frequent or intense butt licking
- Scooting
- Straining when eliminating
- Changes in stool
- Hair loss
- Redness or sores around the anus
- Lumps or bumps around the anus
- Any discharge or oozing
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
Dr. Lindell says it’s also a good idea to take your dog to the vet if other dogs in your house have suddenly started licking them.
Veterinary Treatment for Butt Licking
The treatment your vet recommends for your dog’s butt licking will vary, depending on the cause. “You don’t treat the licking,” Dr. Lindell says. “You treat the cause of the licking.”
If your dog’s butt-licking is more than just a grooming habit, your vet may recommend a few tests and treatments to get to the bottom of any health-related issues. These tests might include:
- A fecal exam to check for parasites
- Dewormer or other medication to treat parasites
- An allergy panel to identify environmental triggers
- An elimination diet to check for food allergens
- Expression of the anal glands
- A topical cream to soothe any irritated skin
Concerned about the cost of treatment? Pet insurance can help save you some money and give you some peace of mind.
How to Keep Your Dog From Licking Their Butt
We get it—constant butt-licking isn’t exactly pleasant to watch, and it can be hard to ignore while you’re waiting for a vet appointment. Here are a few things you can try in the meantime to help stop the behavior:
- A cone: An Elizabethan collar can prevent your dog from reaching their backside and irritating the area further.
- Distraction and alternative licking: You can try redirecting your dog’s attention with a chew, puzzle toy, or treat-filled Kong.
- Bath: A soothing bath can help remove residue and relieve discomfort temporarily. Dr. Lindell also suggests a cool compress if your pup will allow it but says not to force this on your dog if they won’t hold still.
- Fiber supplements: Adding fiber to your dog’s diet can help regulate their digestive system and may ease discomfort, especially if the issue is related to digestion or anal glands.
Will My Dog Stop Licking Their Butt On Their Own?
“When a dog licks their rear end, this behavior may not resolve on its own,” Dr. Pankratz explains.
There are many medical reasons why a dog might be licking their butt, Dr. Pankratz goes on to say, so it’s worth checking in with your vet. They can do an exam and make sure there’s nothing causing your dog discomfort.
If your dog’s licking keeps them (and you) up at night, you can try using white noise to soothe them or consider an alternative distraction, like a chew toy, to help settle them down.
