Dog licking bum

Hi,

My 6 year old Cairn today started licking his bum. He does it every few minutes and the licking will go on and on. Could this be related to his anal glands? Is this something that will sort itself out or does he need to see a vet?

Thanks

Hi, my bc occasionally does this. Vet says it is anal glands. His are fine.

There's a good chance his anal glands could be bothering him if it's unusual for him to be licking so much.

You say "on and on" - Is it casual licking or does he seem irritated by it ?

You might find he'll sort it himself but other clues for full anal sacs can be a fishy smell, scooting his bum on the floor or the tail being a bit subdued.

It's not difficult to do it yourself (externally) but if you're not confident you might just find a gentle 'attempt' produces enough evidence to know that's the problem.

If it is anal glands then it's worth looking at diet.

I would take a trip along to your vets as it does sound like anal glands and they can be quite painful if full or infected.
Your vet will empty them for you and show you how to do it if needed again.

I've not noticed any smells, he didn't seem to be distressed by it, i took him for a walk as that usually helps when he has stomach problems and he did a poo and stopped the licking after that. He wasn't quite himself this morning but again a walk helped so i will see how he goes and decide about the vets.

Thanks for the replies

You wouldn't miss the smell It is horrendous! I changed his food after suggestion by vet. Burns too. He's on skinners now and no bother at all.