17 Best Home Remedies For Dog Scooting (Itchy Bum)

A dog dragging their bum on the floor might look cute (and funny).

However, one thing’s for sure…

They’re in great discomfort.

But, don’t worry.

You can help your pooch who has this issue at home.

How?

Continue reading to discover:

• Natural ways to soothe and relieve itchy skin in dogs.
• Home remedies you can try to get rid of fleas or worms.
• Tips on how to resolve their diarrhea or constipation at home.
• And a lot more…

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Home remedies for dog scooting (itchy bum)

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#1: Calendula

This plant is labeled as an ‘all-purpose’ treatment. This is because its flowers have many medicinal purposes.

In humans, calendula or ‘pot marigold’ is said to be helpful in:

• Treating acne.
• Relieving menstrual cramps.
• Fighting oxidative stress that causes cell damage.

But aside from us, our furry friends can also benefit from this wonder plant.

“How will this help my dog’s scooting issue?”

Usually, canines drag their bum across the ground because it’s itchy or in pain. And they do this to relieve the discomfort in the area.

This could be due to:

• Rashes.
• Wounds.
• Insect bites.
• Clogged anal sacs.
• Hotspots (or inflamed parts of the skin).

And according to VCA Hospitals, calendula speeds up the healing of wounds. Plus, it also reduces inflammation.

One study says that calendula extract aids in the release of proteins that cure lesions.

So, if this is your Fidos’ case, calendula might help resolve the itch or swelling. Which will also lessen their urge to scratch (scoot) their tush.

But, if your dog’s anal sacs are blocked, calendula won’t help in draining them. It’ll only alleviate the soreness and reduce discomfort.

We’ll get to the home remedy for this later. So, don’t worry.

“Is this safe?”

Calendula is considered a non-toxic plant.

However, there’s a small risk of allergies in humans. And it’s even rarer in animals.

But, better safe than sorry. So, if your dog experiences more discomfort after applying this, stop right away.

What to do?

Calendula can be used as a wash or topical remedy for your dog’s itchy bum.

Option #1: Rinse

First, prepare 4 cups (960 ml) of calendula tea.

To do this:

1. Add 2 tbsp (28.3 g) of dried calendula for every cup of hot water.

1. Cover and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes.
2. Once it has steeped, strain the tea.

Pour it into a gallon (3785 ml) of water. Let it cool down for a few minutes. And test the water temperature using your hand.

If it’s lukewarm, use it as a last rinse during a bath. And wash their rear end with it. Then dry your dog with a clean towel.

Option #2: Topical

This is for spot treatment only. And if your dog has few affected areas where a wash isn’t necessary. Like a hotspot.

To create a topical salve, combine equal parts of calendula extract and olive oil. The amount will be based on how much coverage your dog needs.

If you have dried calendula, you might put some as well. Then stir it to become a thicker mixture.

Warning: Don’t use the salve on oozing wounds. As it may quickly close the lesion without draining the pus inside. For this, a calendula wash is more appropriate.

#2: Oatmeal

Oatmeal isn’t only a tasty and healthy breakfast. Because it also soothes irritated skin.

But how?

Based on a study, oatmeal is rich in antioxidants. As well as anti-inflammatory properties.

Experts say that it also has beta-glucan – a natural moisturizer. And polysaccharides that keep water in the skin.

These prevent dryness and cleanse the affected area. Which can also help in treating hot spots and reducing itchiness.

What to do?

Option #1: Oatmeal bath

What you’ll need:

• A large rug or non-slip mat.
• 1 cup (128 g) fine-powdered oats.

You’ll need unflavored colloidal oatmeal for this.

“What is it?”

It’s made of finely-grounded oats. 

According to the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, the grains should be extra small. As tinier particles settle better on the skin. Which then forms a protective layer.

So, you have to grind your regular uncooked oats first. By using a food processor or a blender. 

1. First, grind the oats until it’s fine powder.
2. Put a large rug or non-slip mat on the bottom of your bathtub. 
3. Fill the tub with lukewarm water up to your dog’s chest level.
4. Add the fine oats to the water and stir it using your hand or a ladle.
5. Place your dog in the tub.
6. Keep them calm by saying praises in a soft voice. Or by softly caressing them.
7. Then, get a handful of the oatmeal-water mixture. And gently massage it on your dog’s rear end.
8. Repeat step #7 for about 10 to 15 minutes.
9. Once done, give your dog a light rinse (to not fully remove the oat bits).
10. Remove your dog from the tub. Then, dry their body with a clean towel.

Option #2: Oatmeal rub

What you’ll need:

• ½ cup (118 ml) water.
• A large rug or non-slip mat.
• ½ cup (64 g) plain uncooked oats (fine powder or not will do).

1. Pour enough water on the oats. Then stir to make a thick paste.
2. Place your dog in the tub.
3. Rinse their back end first with lukewarm water.
4. While they’re wet, softly rub the cloth with the oatmeal mixture on the affected areas.
5. Do step #5 for 5 to 10 minutes.
6. Rinse your dog lightly. (Don’t worry about the tiny bits of oatmeal on their skin as these will help reduce itch.)
7. Then towel-dry your dog after.

“How often should I do this?”

You can give your dog an oatmeal bath twice a week – at most. Then thrice a day if you opt for an oatmeal rub.

Do any of these until their discomfort lessens. But, see a vet at once if their condition doesn’t improve after days of application.

Interesting fact: Oatmeal has been used for many centuries now. Researchers said that it was first used as a skin treatment in Egypt and Arabia. Which dates back to 2000 B.C.

#3: Baking soda

It’s known that baking soda is used for different purposes. This may go from cooking to cleaning.

And in dogs, it could be applied as a natural shampoo to get rid of unwanted odors. Plus, it’s said to be a flea-killer as well. 

But, did you know that it can soothe skin rashes too?

Yup. So if your dog has an itchy situation in their behind, you may also try this inexpensive remedy. As you probably have a box of this in your cupboard.

What to do?

1. Add enough water to 1 tbsp (14.3 g) of baking soda to create a thick paste.
2. Put the mixture on the rashes or affected spots.
3. Let it dry for 15 to 20 minutes. (Don’t allow your dog to lick the paste to avoid risks of poisoning).
4. Rinse it completely. Then dry your dog using a clean towel.

“Is baking soda safe for dogs?”

According to PetMD, baking soda is usually harmless. But, as long as your dog didn’t ingest a huge amount of it.

Vets say that toxicity might happen at a dose of 0.35 to 0.70 oz (10 to 20 g) per kg of their body weight.

So, a 22 oz (10 kg) dog will suffer from toxicity if they eat 7 to 14 tbsp (100 to 200 g) of baking soda.

Which is quite impossible if you’re only going to use it a bit for external purposes.

Warning: However, a typical box of baking soda is 8 oz (227 g) which can be toxic if consumed all at once. So, keep it out of your dog’s reach at all times.

#4:  Pumpkin seeds

Another common reason for dog scooting is tapeworms.

These could irritate their bums. As their segments will go out of a dog’s body through the anus.

And aside from dragging their bottom, its other possible signs are:

• Having one ear up and one down.
• Sleeping with their bum facing you.
• Constantly looking at their rear end.

There are available worm medications. But, there are risks of overdose and allergic reaction. Especially if you’re giving this to your dog at home.

For you to avoid worrying about these things, there are natural ways to do it.

How?

By giving them some pumpkin seeds.

“Are these effective?”

One study found that these can reduce worm infections.

It was an experiment with rats. And a significant decrease of worms in the stool was observed.

Specialists also say that pumpkin seeds have ‘amino acid cucurbitin.’

This immobilizes worms. Which helps in flushing them out of a dog’s system.

What to do?

1. Grind some pumpkin seeds.
2. Add the powder to your dog’s meals once or twice per day. For reference, give 1/4 tsp (0.05 g) per 10 lb (4.54 kg) of their weight.
3. Do this until your dog doesn’t show any signs of worm infestation.

Don’t forget to check out: Why does my dog keep licking their base of tail?

#5: Papaya

Aside from pumpkin seeds, some food can also get rid of pesky worms.

But, let’s talk about fruits first.

Research shows that papaya is ‘anthelmintic.’

Or having the ability to treat intestinal worms. 

And this is due to the protein enzyme called ‘papain.’

What to do?

You can give your dog 1 to 2 slices of fresh papaya every day. But, remove the seeds and skin before serving it.

However, papaya seeds also help in removing worms, so crush some of them. Until they turn into fine powder.

Since ingesting them as they are may cause intestinal blockage.

Then, add the powder once a day to your dog’s meals. Measure 0.0003 oz (8 mg) of it per 2.2 lb (0.10 kg) of their body weight.

Note: Although papaya is considered safe for dogs, too much of anything isn’t good. Dr. Heidi says that its seeds have a trivial amount of cyanide. But, it’ll take a huge dose before a dog will be affected.

So, stick with the amount stated above. And monitor your pooch closely.

Next…

#6: Pineapple

In 1939, parasitic worms in pigs were reported to be dissolved within a day. And this happened after the presence of fresh pineapple juice.

Because like papaya, pineapple also has enzymes that terminate worms.

It’s called ‘bromelain.’ And it was found to be effective in other animals too, like chickens.

Pineapple is packed with fiber and many vitamins as well. Which can aid in your dog’s digestion. Plus, help strengthen their immune system.

What to do?

Remove pineapple’s core and other hard parts. Then slice its flesh into small chunks.

Give only 2 to 3 slices to your dog as a snack. Since more than this might be too much for them.

Or, you may offer them ¼ cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed pineapple juice. (Not the canned one because it has high sugar content).

Note: You can also freeze the chunks or juice to make a nice cool treat during hot days.

#7: Carrots

If your dog prefers veggies more than fruits, you could add some to their meals.

For this, carrots are a great choice since they’re loaded with vitamin A.

Why?

One study reveals that this type of vitamin can help get rid of intestinal worms in mice. Because it promotes the release of white blood cells that fight parasite antigens.

What to do?

You may:

• Blanch and blend carrot peels to create a puree.
• Steam or blanch it. Then slice it into small cubes.
• Grate some of it and put it over your dog’s meals.

#8: Fermented veggies

Lastly, food that underwent fermentation has probiotics.

And researchers say that these good bacteria may also help in reducing parasitic worms in dogs.

So, fermented vegetables are also another option. But remember, some picky dogs might not like these because of their tangy taste. 

What to do?

If you have fermented sauerkraut or carrots at home, you may feed some to your dog. Add 1 tsp (4 g) of it to one of their meals every day.

But, make sure that it’s fermented with salt. And it has no spices that can be toxic for your dog.

Note: If your pooch has trouble eating it, start with less than a teaspoon. Then, gradually increase it each day. 

#9: Vinegar

Next, to prevent your dog from having more tapeworms…

You also need to get rid of fleas.

“Why’s that?”

It’s because tapeworms are transmitted to dogs by eating a larva-carrying flea. Then, it’ll grow into a tapeworm. And live inside their intestines.

“So, what’s an effective home remedy for this?”

According to Dr. Judy Morgan, vinegar keeps fleas (and ticks) away.

1. She recommends combining 1 part vinegar and 1 part water. (White vinegar or apple cider vinegar will do.)
2. Once done, pour the solution into a spray bottle.
3. Apply it on your dog’s fur.
4. Then brush their hair after 20 minutes to remove dead fleas.

Do this once or twice a week. And might as well, spray some on your dog’s beddings. As well as your carpets to kill any fleas. 

Note: The solution may have a strong scent that your dog will not like. So, lessen it by adding more water. Then while spraying, avoid their eyes. And areas with open wounds or rashes.

You might also like: 13 Surprising Reasons Why Dogs Kick When You Scratch Them

#10: Clean your place regularly 

Fleas don’t only stay on your dog’s body. As these can live and spread anywhere – even inside your home. (Oh no!)

So, always vacuum and mop your flooring. And wash your covers, furniture, and carpets often.

Especially your dog’s bed or blankets. Since these are the things that are often in contact with your dog.

What to do?

Choose dog-safe and natural cleaners (e.g., Nature’s Miracle). And avoid products with bleach, sulfates, and alcohol.

So you don’t have to worry about keeping your house squeaky clean. And you’re assured that your pooch won’t be allergic to it.

Also, if you’d like to create a DIY solution for disinfecting floors. AKC says you can mix water and vinegar using a 1:1 ratio.

Just keep your dog away while cleaning using this as they’ll hate the odor. But after some time, the scent will fade.

#11: Trim matted fur

Excuse me if you’re eating.

But, besides fleas and worms, dried poop is also one of the causes of scooting in dogs.

The hard fecal matter on their bottom is uncomfortable. Plus, it also blocks their anus. Which makes pooping difficult.

So, check your dog’s rear end. And if you see some, do the following:

1. Wear gloves.
2. Inspect the area first. If it’s infected, leave this to your vet to avoid it from getting worse. But if it’s not, proceed with the next step.
3. Trim the matted fur on their behind. And make sure to remove any dried matter.
4. Wash the area with cool water and mild dog shampoo.
5. Rinse and pat your dog dry with a towel.
6. Put a thin coat of antibiotic ointment on the affected spots. But, avoid products with zinc oxide. As vets say that this may cause anemia when ingested.

More trimming reminders

• While cutting, keep the blade away from your dog’s skin.
• Ensure that your clippers have sharp blades. For better trimming.
• Prepare some tasty treats as a distraction and reward for your dog.
• If possible, ask someone to hold the snacks during the session. Or do this while your dog faces a vertical surface with a lick mat on it that’s filled with treats.

Note: In connection with this, always keep your dog’s back end clean. By washing it at least once a day. Or wiping it with dog-grooming wipes or damp cloth. And resolve their diarrhea (if they have) by doing the next tips.

#12: Bland diet

An upset stomach might also be the reason for dog scooting. As canines will experience diarrhea.

Which can result in a sore bum. Or matted fur with dried stools.

So if your pooch has diarrhea, a change in their diet is often recommended. This is only if they don’t show any other symptoms, like:

• Sudden weight loss.
• Huge amounts of blood in stool or vomit.

What to do?

First, determine what type of diarrhea your dog has.

Vets say that there are 2 types of it:

Small bowel diarrhea

• Vomiting.
• A large amount of stool.
• Having 3 to 5 bowel movements in a day.

Large bowel diarrhea

• No vomiting.
• A small amount of stool.
• More than 5 bowel movements per day.

If your dog shows signs of small bowel diarrhea, she says that a bland diet will work best.

“What is it?”

It’s a set of meals that are made of cooked but unseasoned meat and carbs.

The most common combination is plain boiled white rice and chicken meat.

But, if your dog isn’t a fan of chicken, eggs, white fish, lamb, or ground beef will do. As long as it’s unsalted and properly cooked.

For carbs, mashed sweet potatoes are also a great choice.

However, before switching their meals…

Withhold food for 12 to 24 hours first. Then give your dog small amounts of water during this. To help settle their irritated stomach.

If they’re not vomiting after 12 hours, try offering some of the new food in small amounts. And do this frequently. Instead of giving them heavy meals twice a day.

“How long should I do this?”

Continue the bland diet if their condition improves. And their stools become firmer.

Then, once they’re fine, slowly transition to their old diet. By putting 25% of their old food and 75% of their current food in their daily meals.

Decrease the amount of the current food every 2 days. Until their meals are fully composed of their old diet.

Warning: Don’t do fasting if you have a puppy, senior Fido, or a small breed. As they need food throughout the day. Plus, tiny dogs don’t have enough reserved nutrients that they can use.

#13: Psyllium husk

Now, if your dog has symptoms of large bowel diarrhea. Feeding them a high-fiber diet is more suitable.

For this, you may consider ‘psyllium.’

According to Pet Coach, it’s a laxative. And this has been used in resolving different conditions in dogs, like:

• Constipation.
• Anal sac disorder.
• Large bowel diarrhea.

Psyllium usually comes in a powdered form. It’s made from grounded seeds. And this helps stimulate the intestines. 

This also bulk up the stool which settles diarrhea in dogs. As well as clogged anal sacs. Because the pressure exerted might cause the sacs to empty on their own.

What to do?

You may purchase an organic psyllium husk powder. And add it to your dog’s meals.

For the dose, Dr. Jennifer Coates recommends 1 tsp (4 g) per 5 lb (2.27 kg) of your dog’s weight.

Psyllium is said to take effect after 24 to 72 hours. 

Warning: Make sure your Fido’s drinking enough water while you’re giving them this. To avoid intestinal obstruction. Also, DON’T use this if your dog:

• Starts vomiting.
• Has impacted stools or intestinal blockage.

#14: Pumpkin puree

Another common home remedy for diarrhea and constipation is pumpkin.

Like psyllium, it’s also rich in fiber. Which helps absorb excess water in the colon or large intestine in dogs.

Resulting in bulkier and firmer stools. 

Plus, pumpkins are easily accessible. And you might have some of this at home right now.

What to do?

To make a puree:

1. First, slice the pumpkin into smaller wedges.
2. Remove the seeds. 
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
4. Put the sliced pumpkin on a tray with a baking sheet. 
5. Bake them for about 90 minutes.
6. Check if they’re tender enough using a fork.
7. Once they’re done, get the flesh out. And mash it more.
8. Let it cool down.

“How much should I give to my dog?”

Add 1 to 4 tsp (4 to 16 g) of pumpkin puree to your dog’s meals every day.

PetsWebMD advises starting with the least amount – 1 tsp (4g).

Then, monitor your dog afterwards. And if their stool is still too watery, add 1 more teaspoon. 

#15: Probiotics

Besides fiber, these could also treat stomach problems in dogs.

“How?”

Bad bacteria or viruses are one of the causes of diarrhea. And since probiotics are live ‘good’ bacteria…

These can help restore the balance in their gut. Which might stop your dog’s scooting issue.

What to do?

Give your dog their daily probiotics intake using this vets-prescribed dosage:

• For small dogs: 1 tsp (4 g) a day.
• For medium-sized breeds: 2 tsp (8 g) a day.
• For large to giant dogs: 3 tsp (12 g) a day.

“Where can dogs get these?”

• Human probiotics.
• Unsweetened kefir.
• Fermented veggies (as I said earlier).
• Plain unsweetened yogurt (xylitol-free).

Taking probiotics may have side effects in some dogs. Like nausea, gas, or constipation. Which is likely due to the change in diet.

If your dog shows any of these symptoms upon taking, stop at once. Then consult your vet.

Interesting fact: Did you know that probiotics aren’t only good for the tummy? A study reveals that these can also reduce anxiety in animals. Which helps improve their mood.

#16: Increase their water intake

This is also needed if your dog has diarrhea. Or they’ve been constipated for days.

Vomiting and loose stools take out many fluids from their body. And this could lead to dehydration.

While constipated canines need more water in their system.

So, to increase your dog’s water intake, you may try these:

• Give them wet (canned) dog food. Add this to your dog’s meals.
• Offer them a homemade broth. This is to motivate them to eat. And to provide lost fluids and nutrients.
• Soak their food in the water. Pour water on their kibble. Then let it soften for a few minutes before serving.

Note: Don’t forget to refill their bowl with fresh water from time to time. And make sure that they’re drinking enough every day.

But wait…

If your dog’s constipated, you can also massage them at home to induce pooping.

Wanna know more?

Read this article next: 5 Easy Ways To Massage A Dog To Poop (How-To Guide)

#17: Warm compress

Do you notice a weird foul smell on your dog?

If so, and they’re also dragging their bum, they might have blocked anal sacs.

These are drained naturally as they exert force while pooping. But, if they have trouble eliminating…

The fluids inside won’t come out. Which may result in blockage. Then in infection, if it gets worse.

So your dog might also keep on sniffing their bum many times a day. As a sign that they’re having discomfort down there.

For both cases, you’ll need a vet. But if it’s clogged, you can also do the tips above to help your dog poop successfully.

And to help soothe their inflamed bum, apply a warm compress as well.

1. Just get a clean cloth.
2. Soak it in warm water.
3. See if it’s cold enough for your dog’s skin. (Test the temperature on your hand.)
4. Then gently dab it on their rear end – under their tail.

Do this twice a day for around 5 minutes. 

If you want it to be more effective, you may add drops of calendula tea. As it can also reduce inflammation.

Note: If you don’t have any experience with expressing anal sacs, it’s better to let your vet handle this. Or an experienced groomer (for impacted sacs only).

It’s a sensitive area. And if drained improperly or too hard, your dog might experience more discomfort.

#BONUS: Exercise them daily

Lastly, see to it that your dog’s getting enough physical exercise every day.

“How is this going to help?”

Exercise doesn’t only keep a canine’s body fit and healthy. Because it can also get their bowels moving.

A simple walk, for example, aids in digestion as per vets. And it also encourages dogs to urinate. Which prevents urinary or bladder infections.

What to do?

Not all dogs require the same amount of daily exercise. So, use the info below as a reference:

• For senior dogs: Give them 5-minute walks twice a day with lots of breaks.
• For toy breeds: At least a total of 30 minutes of exercise that’s spread throughout the day.
• For puppies: Multiply their age in months by 5 to get the total minutes. Short frequent walks and playing games will do.
• Adult working dogs: At least 2 hours. You may also try other fun activities that suit your dog (e.g., running, jogging, playing fetch).

Note: See your vet once your dog shows any of these other symptoms:

• Fever.
• Pale gums.
• Persistent weakness.
• Constant diarrhea or constipation even after doing the remedies.