Question:
My 6 month old lab/rottie cross has been licking his anus excessively. His bowel movements have been regular however, they have been varied in their consistency. At the end of the bowel movement, I see some watery output...usually just a couple of drops. When I am sitting next to him when he is licking, I have noticed a musty smell.

What do you think is causing this?

Thanks.

Answer:
I'm thinking anal glands problem. I would try cleaning them or brining the pup to a groomer to get them cleaned out. But I'm not a vet so...

Answer:
Hey there ., I would suggest a trip to the vet. Our female had that problem and the vet told me that the musty odour is a sign of infection. Good luck

Answer:
Dog that lick's butt, will smell like butt..this is on good authority.

Okay....it is normal to see anal gland fluid droplets at every defacation. However this does not indicated the glands are empty...any time an animal licks excessivly any area there is a problem. Their are two anal glands that cause the problem...located on the left about 9:00 and the right about 5:00 positions..this will vary. (Ciara is the funky dog with a symetrical anal glands)
Your dog will love you even more if you can remedy this uncomfortable situation and have them expressed if one side is impacted.
Or learn how to do it yourself like I did.
* Uses gloves and keep's mouth shut* I have learned something.

Answer:
Thanks all for your input. Turns out that we ended up at the vet on Sunday...unfortunatly, Parker had a run in with a fire door and lost...damage...ripped pad on the bottom of his hind leg. We are quite a sight these days..out walking, him with his IV bag tied on his leg with gauze...

Anyway, to make a short answer longer, this trip afforded me the opportunity to ask the Dr. about the situation.

He did a rectal exam, did smell the same smell that I was referring to, and concluded that it was the anal glands. Apparently, if the bowel movements have not been really firm, then the glands are not being expressed with each bowel movement. The increased attention in that area was just his way of taking care of business and no cause for alarm...other than the disgusting smell, there is absolutely nothing to worry about!

Hmmm...did I forget anything? Hope not...

Thanks again!

Answer:
Oouchie Parker, careful next time diggity dog!

Answer:
That is a good butt report! Sorry to hear about the injuries though.

I prefer to discuss the other end anyway. Who wouldn't?

I love dog noses..

Answer: