When you notice your dog excessively licking their bum, it can be worrying, confusing, and honestly a little uncomfortable to watch.
Dogs will occasionally groom themselves, but when the licking becomes frequent or obsessive, it usually means something is irritating, painful, or uncomfortable around the anal or rear-end area.
We explain the most common reasons a dog may excessively lick their bum, what you can do at home, and when to involve your veterinarian.
Dog Excessively Licking Bum: Why It Happens
Most of the time, a dog excessively licking their bum is caused by anal gland problems, allergies, irritation around the anus, parasites, diarrhea, or skin infections.
Dogs lick when they feel itchiness, pressure, or pain, and the bum is a sensitive area. Anal gland impaction is one of the most common reasons because when these glands fill up or become infected, they create a strong sense of pressure and discomfort.
Allergies, worms, or irritation from soft stools can also trigger constant licking as your dog tries to soothe the area.
Even if your dog otherwise seems normal and happy, persistent bum licking is still a sign that something needs attention.
Dog Excessively Licking Bum: Common Causes
Anal Gland Impaction or Infection
Anal gland problems are the number-one cause when a dog keeps licking their bum. Dogs have two small scent glands beside the anus, and these glands release fluid when your dog poops.
Sometimes, the glands don’t empty properly. When that happens, fluid builds up, becoming thick and uncomfortable.
Your dog may lick to relieve the pressure or irritation. You may also notice scooting, a strong fishy smell, or your dog acting restless.
If the glands become infected or abscessed, the area can become swollen, red, or painful. This is not only uncomfortable but can rupture if untreated, which is extremely painful and requires urgent veterinary care.
Even if your dog is still eating, playing, and acting normally, anal gland disease should never be ignored.
Related: Dog excessively licking privates (Here’s why)
Parasites Such as Worms
Intestinal worms can also cause irritation around the anus, leading your dog to lick excessively. Tapeworms are especially known for causing itchiness because their segments can sometimes be seen around the anus or in stool, resembling tiny rice-like pieces.
Other worms can also cause itching and anal irritation, especially as they shed eggs.
A dog with worms may continue acting completely normal in the early stages. But over time, worms can cause weight loss, diarrhea, a poor coat, or increased hunger.
Because worms are contagious to other pets and sometimes humans, testing and treatment are important.
Allergies
Dogs with environmental or food allergies often have itchy skin — and the anal area is no exception. Allergies trigger inflammation, which creates irritation and moisture around the bum.
This irritation leads to constant licking, chewing, redness, and sometimes hair loss. Some dogs also show paw licking, ear infections, or ongoing skin problems.
Even if your dog acts perfectly normal otherwise, allergies can cause chronic discomfort and worsen over time. Licking can also introduce bacteria to the skin, which may then cause infection.
Diarrhea
When a dog has diarrhea or soft stool, the moisture and residue left behind can irritate the skin around the anus. This irritation becomes itchy, sticky, or even slightly painful, so dogs lick in an attempt to clean or soothe themselves.
Dogs that experience frequent loose stools may have ongoing irritation, which leads to more licking and sometimes redness or inflamed skin.
If diarrhea lasts more than a day or two, or you notice mucus or blood, it’s important to speak with your vet.
Perianal or Skin Infection
Sometimes infections develop in the skin folds around the anus. This area is warm and moist, which allows bacteria or yeast to multiply easily.
Infections can cause redness, odor, swelling, discharge, or scabs. Some dogs may drag their rear end, lick constantly, or seem uncomfortable when sitting.
Even if your dog’s energy and appetite seem totally normal, an infection still requires veterinary treatment to clear fully and prevent recurrence.
Rectal or Anal Growths
In some cases — especially in older dogs — growths can form around or inside the anus. These may be benign lumps, warts, or more serious tumors. Growths can create pressure, irritation, or pain, leading to repeated licking.
You may or may not be able to see a lump from the outside.
Any noticeable swelling, changes in stool shape, bleeding, or difficulty passing stool should be checked as soon as possible so your vet can determine the cause.
Related: Dog licking excessively (Common causes)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Excessively Licking Their Bum
If your dog is excessively licking their bum, the first step is to gently check the area — without forcing your dog or risking a bite. Look for swelling, redness, discharge, worms, matted fur, or signs of discomfort.
If something looks obviously wrong or painful, it’s best to contact your veterinarian promptly rather than trying home remedies.
Keep the area clean and dry. You can wipe gently with warm water and a soft cloth to remove any residue from diarrhea or irritation. Avoid using baby wipes, peroxide, or human creams unless directed by your vet, as many products can sting or irritate the skin further.
Make note of any additional symptoms such as scooting, diarrhea, appetite changes, lethargy, or worsening behavior. The more information you can provide your vet, the easier it will be for them to diagnose the problem.
If your dog seems otherwise well and the licking is mild, you can monitor for 24–48 hours. However, if the behavior continues, worsens, or your dog seems uncomfortable, veterinary care is important — especially because anal gland or infection problems can escalate quickly.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should contact your veterinarian promptly if:
- Your dog is scooting, whining, or seems painful when sitting.
- You notice blood, pus, or swelling around the anus.
- There is a strong fishy or foul smell from the rear end.
- Your dog has diarrhea lasting more than 24–48 hours.
- You see worms or rice-like segments around the anus or in stool.
- Your dog suddenly becomes lethargic, stops eating, or vomits.
- There is a visible lump or mass around the anus.
- The licking is constant and does not improve.
Any sudden change in behavior, discomfort, or worsening irritation should always be checked, as bum-related conditions can worsen quickly.
Read more: Dog keeps licking anus and it smells (What it means)
Key Takeaway
Seeing your dog excessively licking their bum can be alarming, but it’s usually a sign of irritation, itchiness, or discomfort — not simply grooming.
Anal gland issues, parasites, allergies, infections, and diarrhea are the most common causes, and even if your dog otherwise seems normal, the problem still deserves attention.
The good news is that most causes are treatable, especially when addressed early. Trust your instincts, keep your dog comfortable, and reach out to your vet if the licking persists, your dog seems uncomfortable, or you notice any swelling, odor, or discharge.
Your dog depends on you to notice what’s wrong — and by paying attention, you’re already doing the right thing.