Why does my beagle “scootch” his butt?
If your beagle drags his butt along the floor, or leaves a smelly spot on your furniture, then chances are his anal glands are full. These are 2 small external glands which normally release a fluid when your beagle poops, but if the fluid builds up, itching and leaking can occur, and the fluid smells quite foul. This is a common problem in beagles. Your vet or a groomer can “express” the glands in mild cases. (You can even be taught, if you have the courage!) In more serious cases, the glands may become impacted, causing pain. Feeding high-quality dog food or adding fiber in the form of vegetables to firm up the stool can often prevent anal gland problems, but some beagles are just prone to it and they have to be expressed once a month or so.
