Home Remedy for Dog Itchy Bum

A happy and healthy dog is a cherished member of the family. However, just like humans, dogs can experience discomfort and health issues from time to time. A dog dragging their bum on the floor might look cute (and funny). However, they’re in great discomfort. While it's always advisable to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment, there are several safe and natural home remedies that can help alleviate your dog's discomfort and promote overall well-being.

Continue reading to discover:

What Causes A Dog's Itchy Bum

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…

What Causes A Dog's Itchy Bum?

• Anal gland issues

• Fleas, ticks, and mites

• Bacterial, fungal or yeast infections of the skin around the anus

• Allergies, resulting in "hot spots" around the anus

• Dirt or poop on a dog's bum

• Constipation and diarrhea

• Wounds around the anus

• Dogs who are overweight or obese may not be able to reach their butt to clean

Symptoms of An Itchy Dog's Butt

Some common symptoms of an itchy dog's butt include:

• Your dog may frequently scratch, lick, or bite at the area around their anus

• Dogs might drag or scoot their rear end along the ground, often referred to as "scooting" 

• The skin around the anus may appear red, inflamed, or irritated

• Dogs with an itchy bum may also chase their tails more frequently as a way to alleviate the discomfort

• If the itching is due to anal gland problems, there might be a strong, unpleasant odor

• Dog's stool consistency or frequency

• Visible Parasites

How to Soothe Dog Irritated Anus?

1. Oatmeal Bath

Oatmeal is known for its soothing properties, and it can work wonders for your dog's irritated skin.

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.

Prepare an oatmeal bath by grinding plain, unflavored oats into a fine powder and mixing it with warm water. Let the oatmeal mixture sit on their skin for about 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and gently dry them with a towel.

You can offer your dog an oatmeal bath up to twice per week, and if you choose to use an oatmeal rub, you can do so up to three times a day.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a versatile remedy with many benefits for dogs, including its ability to moisturize and alleviate itching. Apply a small amount of organic, unrefined coconut oil to the affected area and gently massage it in. The oil can provide a protective barrier and help reduce inflammation.

3. Chamomile Tea Compress

Chamomile tea is often used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm irritated skin. 

For this process:

Include 2 tablespoons of dried Chamomile for each cup of hot water. After steeping, carefully strain the tea.
Combine the tea with a gallon (3785 ml) of water. Allow it to cool for a few minutes and gauge the temperature with your hand.
If the temperature is comfortably warm, apply it as a final rinse while bathing your dog. Gently cleanse their rear end with the mixture. Then, use a clean towel to dry your dog.

4. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel functions as a natural astringent with potential soothing qualities. Begin by mixing witch hazel with water; a typical proportion is 1 part witch hazel to 3 parts water.

Employ a cotton ball or a soft cloth to gently administer the diluted witch hazel solution to your dog's anal area. Pat the region softly, refraining from vigorous rubbing. Permit the witch hazel to naturally dry on the skin.

It's possible to utilize the diluted witch hazel solution around 4-5 times per day but exercise caution to avoid excessive usage, as it might result in dryness or irritation.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

ACV is quite strong so Mix one part of ACV with three parts of water to create a diluted solution. Using a clean cotton ball or soft cloth, dip it into the diluted ACV solution and gently apply it to the affected area. Use it as often as 2-3 times a day.

Home Remedy for Dog Itchy Bum or How to Resolve Their Diarrhea or Constipation at Home?

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Adding sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil, to your dog's diet might have anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce itching and inflammation.

The appropriate amount of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), for a dog, can vary based on factors such as age, size, and health status. Here's a rough breakdown of recommended daily omega-3 or DHA intake for dogs based on age groups and body types:

Small Breeds (e.g., Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier):

Medium Breeds (e.g., Labrador Retriever, Bulldog):

Large Breeds (e.g., German Shepherd, Golden Retriever):

Giant Breeds (e.g., Great Dane, Mastiff):

2. Probiotics

Adding probiotics to your dog's diet could promote a healthy gut flora,  which may also help your dog avoid constipation and firm stools. You may also want to give your furbaby supplements like Probiotic Puainta® which are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help support proper digestion and absorption, promoting overall intestinal health.

3. Dietary Fiber

Add fiber-rich foods to your dog's diet, such as canned pumpkin (plain), cooked sweet potato, or green beans.

4. Exercise

Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements and promote regularity.

Home Remedies You Can Try to Get Rid of Fleas or Worms

If fleas are causing anal itching, here are some home remedies for flea or worm infestations on pets.

For Fleas

• Regular Bathing: Giving your pet a bath with a mild pet-friendly shampoo can help drown and remove fleas. Make sure the water is warm but not too hot.

• Lemon Spray: Some people mix a solution of lemon and water and use it as a natural flea spray. However, be cautious as citrus can irritate a pet's skin.

• Diatomaceous Earth: Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that can be sprinkled on your pet's fur and bedding. It is believed to dehydrate and kill fleas.

• Vacuuming: Regularly vacuum your home, including carpets, furniture, and pet bedding. This can help remove fleas and their eggs from the environment.

• Wash Bedding: Wash your pet's bedding, toys, and other items in hot water to help eliminate fleas and eggs.

For Worms

• Pumpkin Seeds: Some pet owners believe that crushed pumpkin seeds can help eliminate certain types of worms. However, the effectiveness of this remedy is debated.

• Carrots: Some people feed their pets grated carrots, believing that this may help eliminate worms. 

It's essential to remember that some home remedies can have adverse effects on pets, and improper use can lead to harm. The best course of action is to buy flea and tick medicine if you suspect your pet has fleas or worms. 

How Do You Get Rid of Intestinal Worms or Fleas in Dogs?

1. Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms

These are common intestinal parasites in dogs. Common anthelmintics include:

• Pyrantel pamoate: Effective against roundworms and hookworms.

• Albendazole: Effective against roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.

2. Giardia

Giardia is a protozoan parasite. Treatment often involves metronidazole or albendazole, but a veterinarian's guidance is crucial due to the specific nature of Giardia infections.

3. Heartworms

Heartworms are a serious concern and prevention is key. Once a dog is infected, treatment becomes more complex. Commonly used drugs for prevention and treatment include abamectin B1, milbemycin, and melarsomine.

4. Flea and Tick

Fipronil: This is a commonly used insecticide that targets adult fleas and ticks.

Imidacloprid: It's used to disrupt the nervous system of fleas and is often combined with other ingredients for broader protection.

Abamectin B1: While primarily used for heartworm prevention, it also has activity against fleas and some ticks.

Fluralaner: This is used to control fleas and ticks. It's commonly found in oral chewable tablets that provide long-lasting protection.

Permethrin: It's an insecticide that's often used in products designed for dogs but is toxic to cats, so caution is needed in households with both species.

When to Consult a Veterinarian?

Your dog's itching persists for more than a couple of days

Redness, swelling, rash, blood, discharge, loss of hair, or any other signs of irritation around the bum area.

Your dog is having trouble defecating, experiencing diarrhea

Foul odor (it could be related to anal gland problems)