It can be alarming to notice your dog licking their bum excessively after a grooming session.
While some mild grooming-related irritation can be normal, persistent licking is usually a sign of discomfort or an underlying issue that needs attention.
We outline the common reasons for dogs licking their bum excessively after grooming, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Licking Bum Excessively After Grooming — Why It Happens
Excessive bum licking after grooming usually happens because the grooming process has triggered irritation, stress, or discomfort in the anal or rear area. This can be due to clipped hair poking the skin, anal gland expression during grooming, shampoo irritation, or even stress-related behaviors.
Sometimes, the behavior is short-lived, but if it continues, it could point to infection, inflammation, or anal gland problems that need a vet’s evaluation.
Dog Licking Bum Excessively After Grooming: Common Causes
Anal Gland Irritation
During grooming, some groomers manually express a dog’s anal glands. While this is sometimes necessary, it can leave the area feeling tender, leading your dog to lick excessively afterward.
Anal gland fluid itself can also irritate the skin, making your dog more focused on the area. If the irritation worsens, you may see scooting, swelling, or a foul odor.
Read more: Dog Licking Bum Excessively And Diarrhea (What it means)
Clip Burns or Razor Irritation
When a clipper passes over sensitive areas near the anus, the skin can become irritated. This is often called “clipper burn,” and it feels itchy or stinging to the dog.
As a result, they may lick their bum to try and soothe the discomfort. This problem is more common in dogs with sensitive skin or thin coats.
Shampoo or Cleaning Product Reactions
Grooming products, even when labeled as safe, can sometimes cause irritation. Residue from shampoos, conditioners, or sprays left around the bum area may cause itching and discomfort.
Dogs may lick excessively in response, and in some cases, the area can develop redness or rashes.
Grooming Stress and Anxiety
Some dogs find grooming stressful. Excessive bum licking after grooming may not always be linked to physical irritation but rather a stress-related behavior.
This is similar to how some dogs lick their paws when anxious. The behavior may resolve within a day, but if it persists, it might be masking an underlying medical trigger.
Skin Infections or Hot Spots
Irritated skin around the rear end can quickly escalate into a bacterial or fungal infection. The constant licking makes the skin more inflamed, creating a cycle of itching and licking.
A hot spot near the tail or anus often looks moist, red, and sore, and it can develop rapidly after grooming irritation.
Underlying Anal Gland Problems
Sometimes, grooming simply brings attention to an already existing issue. If your dog had impacted or infected anal glands, the pressure or handling during grooming can worsen symptoms.
In this case, the excessive licking won’t stop on its own and usually needs veterinary care to treat the glands properly.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Licking Their Bum Excessively After Grooming
If your dog starts licking their bum after grooming, first check the area gently.
Look for redness, swelling, or clipped skin irritation. A warm, damp cloth can help soothe mild irritation, especially if you suspect shampoo residue.
You can also try applying a pet-safe soothing spray or ointment if the skin looks dry or irritated. Be sure the product is designed for dogs, as human creams may be toxic if licked.
Keeping your dog distracted with play, food puzzles, or a cone (if needed) can help stop further irritation from licking.
Make sure your dog’s anal area stays clean and dry, as moisture can worsen irritation. If the licking continues for more than a day or you notice signs of pain, odor, or swelling, a vet visit is the safest option.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog is licking excessively for more than 24 hours after grooming, it’s time to get veterinary advice. Prolonged licking often means irritation has escalated into something more serious.
Seek veterinary care right away if you notice:
Swelling or redness around the anus
A foul or fishy odor
Your dog scooting across the floor
Blood, pus, or discharge
Signs of pain such as whimpering, difficulty sitting, or reluctance to move their tail
These signs suggest possible anal gland infection, injury, or skin infection that requires prompt treatment. Your vet may express the anal glands, prescribe soothing medication, or recommend an ointment to calm irritation.
Read more: Dog Excessively Licking Privates (Why it happens)
Key Takeaway
A dog licking their bum excessively after grooming may be reacting to irritation, shampoo residue, or anal gland discomfort. While some mild licking can be normal, ongoing or severe licking often points to a bigger problem.
At-home soothing can help with minor irritation, but if symptoms persist, contacting your vet is the best step.
With the right care, your dog can feel comfortable again quickly and return to enjoying life without the constant licking.