Why does my Maltese scoot after pooping?

Scooting after pooping often indicates anal gland fullness or irritation. The act of pooping can stimulate the glands, and if they are already uncomfortable, your dog may scoot to relieve pressure. A vet can check if the glands need expressing.

Can I express my Maltese's anal glands at home?

It's not recommended. Improper expression can cause pain, infection, or rupture. Only a vet or groomer trained in the procedure should do it. You can help prevent impaction by adding fiber to the diet.

Is scooting always a sign of worms in Maltese?

No, but tapeworms are a common cause. Other causes include anal gland issues, allergies, or dietary problems. A fecal test is the only way to confirm worms, so consult your vet.

How can I tell if my Maltese's scooting is due to allergies?

If scooting is accompanied by itching elsewhere (paws, ears, face), red skin, or recurrent ear infections, allergies are likely. Food allergies often cause rear-end itching. Your vet can help identify triggers through an elimination diet or allergy testing.

Why is my maltese dragging his bottom on the floor

If your Maltese is scooting his bottom across the floor, you’re likely worried and a bit grossed out. This behavior, known as scooting, is common in small breeds like the Maltese. The most direct answer is that your dog is trying to relieve itching, pain, or irritation around his rear end. The top culprits are anal gland problems, allergies, or intestinal parasites. Let’s break down what you can do.

Why Do Maltese Dogs Scoot? Common Medical Causes

Anal Gland Issues
Anal glands are two small sacs on either side of your dog’s anus that release a smelly fluid. When these glands become impacted or infected, they cause intense discomfort. A Maltese may scoot to try to release the pressure. Signs include a fishy odor, licking the rear, or a visible swelling. Treatment involves a vet expressing the glands, and in chronic cases, adding fiber to the diet (like pumpkin or psyllium husk) can help firm up stools and promote natural emptying.

Allergies
Maltese dogs are prone to skin allergies, which can affect the anal area. Food allergies (common triggers: chicken, beef, dairy, wheat) or environmental allergies (pollen, dust mites) can cause itching and inflammation. Your dog may scoot, lick his paws, or have red skin. An elimination diet with a novel protein or hydrolyzed protein food can help identify food triggers. For environmental allergies, antihistamines or omega-3 supplements may provide relief under vet guidance.

Intestinal Parasites
Tapeworms are a classic cause of scooting. Fleas can transmit tapeworms, and your dog may scoot because the tapeworm segments (which look like rice grains) irritate the anus. A fecal test by your vet can confirm parasites. Routine deworming and flea control are essential. Other worms like roundworms or hookworms can also cause anal irritation.

Other Possible Causes
– Injury or foreign body: A grass seed or small object stuck near the anus.
– Perianal tumors: Rare but possible in older dogs.
– Diarrhea or soft stools: Can cause anal gland issues.

When to See a Vet and What to Do at Home

Immediate Vet Visit if you notice any of these:
– Your dog seems in pain or cries when pooping.
– Blood or pus near the anus.
– Lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
– A lump or swelling near the rear.
– Scooting that lasts more than a day or is frequent.

At-Home First Steps
1. Check the area: Gently lift your dog’s tail and look for redness, swelling, discharge, or visible worms. Use a flashlight. Do not attempt to express anal glands yourself – it can cause injury or infection.
2. Clean the area: Wipe with a warm, damp cloth to remove any dirt or discharge. Pat dry.
3. Prevent further irritation: Ensure your Maltese is on a high-quality diet with adequate fiber. Adding a teaspoon of canned pumpkin (plain, not pie filling) once daily can help regulate stools.
4. Flea control: Keep your dog on year-round flea prevention to reduce tapeworm risk.

The Vet Will Likely:
– Perform a rectal exam and express the anal glands.
– Test a fecal sample for parasites.
– Recommend an elimination diet if allergies are suspected.
– Prescribe antibiotics if infection is present.

Long-Term Prevention and Management

Anal Gland Health
– Add fiber: Psyllium husk powder (1/4 tsp per day mixed in food) or canned pumpkin can bulk up stools.
– Regular exercise: Helps stimulate bowel movements.
– Monitor: Some Malteses require periodic gland expression at the vet.

Allergy Management
– If food allergies are confirmed, stick to a limited-ingredient diet.
– Use hypoallergenic shampoos (like oatmeal or aloe) for baths.
– Wipe your dog’s paws after walks to remove pollen.

Parasite Prevention
– Administer monthly heartworm/flea prevention (e.g., products containing praziquantel for tapeworms).
– Keep your dog away from feces of other animals.
– Have a fecal check twice a year.

General Care
– Keep the rear area clean and trimmed. Maltese have long hair that can mat and trap debris.
– Use a probiotic supplement to support digestion and reduce stool softness.
– Avoid over-bathing, which can dry skin and worsen allergies.

In most cases, scooting is a treatable issue. By working with your vet, you can soon have your Maltese back to a happy, non-scooting life.

Key Takeaway

Scooting in Maltese is usually treatable, but a vet visit is essential to rule out anal gland impaction, allergies, or parasites.

Sources

AKC
ASPCA