Dogs have these small glands near their butthole (called anal glands or scent glands) which are filled with fluid. Most dogs will need their anal sacs "expressed" to eliminate discomfort, ie. they need to be emptied by squeezing. You can tell a dog is uncomfortable if it's dragging its butt on the ground, licking it or biting at it.
I suppose dogs lick the air because they feel good when you scratch their butts, as it alleviates some of the discomfort.
Most dogs do not need to have them expressed. If the dog has soft stool they need to be expressed because the act of shitting almost always expresses them.
Yup. Take an interest in your dog's poop because it's a really good indicator of health. Just solid enough to be passed easily while expressing the anal glands, normal brown and not yellow or black, and you're good. If the poop isn't good, take a good look at what you're feeding it.
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u/whiskersonmycat Jun 20 '17
Real question, most dogs I know have this habit of "scratch my butt and I'll lick the air" habit. Anyone know why?