Why do dogs drag their butts?

Although no scientific studies have confirmed this, anecdotal evidence suggests that the whiter and newer your carpet, the more likely your dog will drag their butt across it.

But why do dogs drag their butts? Whyyyy!?!?!

Who, me?

Dogs, along with cats, skunks, beavers, and a variety of other mammals (but not humans), have anal sacs. These gland-lined pouches are situated at the four and eight o’clock positions around the anus, where they store a fishy, poopy, metallic-smelling substance.

One whiff and you’ll know it forever.

If all systems are working properly, these stinky sacs release their gunk through small openings when your dog defecates, probably for scent-marking purposes. You can sometimes see this in action if you watch closely while your dog poops. It’s like a spritz of lemon on top.

In health, no outside maintenance is needed, but some dogs, particularly small breeds, may get blocked anal sacs.

Guilty!

Blocked anal sacs are pressurized and uncomfortable, so dogs drag their butts to express themselves.

Really, it’s all about self-expression, and your carpet is the canvas.

If anal sacs aren’t expressed, a painful infection can occur, and your veterinarian will need to sedate your dog, drain the sac, and prescribe antibiotics. If the problem recurs, the sacs may need to be surgically removed.

Usually, however, routine expression is enough to keep the problem under control. Most vets charge a minimal fee for this unique service, usually because they make their assistant do it while they stand out of range and laugh.

Pro tip: When expressing an anal sac, do not look in the barrel of the gun. It tastes like it smells.

Bonus fact: Dogs may drag their butts for other reasons, like itchiness, worms, or dingleberries. Yes, dingleberry is the proper medical term.