Why the Russian Toy Terrier Slides on Its Bottom

Many dog owners observe their pet sitting on its bottom and sliding around. It seems as if the animal is wiping its rear. Funny? Not quite. Do you know why the Toy Terrier slides on its bottom?

Sliding on the rear end indicates that the dog is experiencing itching around the anal area.

Watch your pet closely. In addition to sliding on its bottom, the Toy Terrier may exhibit behaviors such as suddenly sitting on its perineum and anal area, frequently jumping up and then looking back at its tail.

Main reasons why a dog slides on its bottom.

Almost all owners will confidently say that if a dog is sliding on its bottom, it has worms. Yes, during a worm infestation, a Toy Terrier will behave this way. But what if the dog doesn’t have worms? What causes itching near the rear end and makes the dog rub its bottom against the carpet?

The reasons prompting the pet to behave this way are as follows:

• blockage of the anal glands.
• inflammation of the anal glands.
• inflammation of the mucosa.
• worm infestation.

On the right and left sides of the anal opening (at the bottom) of any dog, there are glands called anal glands. These glands secrete a substance that is very thick in consistency and has a sharp unpleasant odor. Almost all toy breeds have lost their natural ability to independently expel the secretions from these anal glands.

Anal glands require regular cleaning, as blockage of these glands leads to inflammation. A feature of the Toy Terrier's physiology is that the glands and ducts frequently become clogged. This occurs due to the thick secretions of the glands or soft feces. When thick secretions stagnate, their constant accumulation in the glands increases the volume of the anal sac, thins the epithelial lining inside, and eventually ruptures the gland. Fistulas and abscesses form on the skin near the anal opening.

Once manifested, the condition becomes chronic.

Try to clean the anal glands of your Toy Terrier yourself. For this, put on rubber gloves and, using petroleum jelly, gently feel for the sacs at the bottom of the anal opening. With a massaging motion, start to express the secretions from one side and then from the other.

Keep in mind that the odor from the secretions is very unpleasant and sharp, so protect your home from it getting on furniture and carpets.

Show your Toy Terrier to a veterinarian. Based on the analysis of the secretions and the condition of the glands, the veterinarian will decide on the treatment method for your terrier. It may be sufficient to simply wash them out. Alternatively, an antibacterial course may be required. Or the doctor may insist on surgical intervention. If your Toy Terrier does not have worms and the anal glands are fine, but the pet continues to rub its bottom, further examinations by a dermatologist are necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Russian Toy Terrier sliding on its bottom?

Sliding on the bottom may indicate itching in the anal area, which can be caused by various reasons, including inflammation or blockage of the anal glands.

How can I help my Toy Terrier if it is sliding on its bottom?

Try to clean the anal glands yourself, but it is best to show your pet to a veterinarian for analysis and treatment recommendations.

What else can cause itching in my Toy Terrier?

Itching can be caused not only by worms but also by inflammation of the mucosa or anal glands, so a thorough examination is necessary.

How often should I clean the anal glands of my Toy Terrier?

It is recommended to regularly check and clean the anal glands as needed, as they can become clogged and cause inflammation.

What should I do if my Toy Terrier does not have worms but continues to rub its bottom?

If the dog does not have worms and the anal glands are fine, you should consult a dermatologist to identify other possible causes of itching.