trying to bite around anus
 

My 8 year old terrier is in discomfort going back and forth trying to reach his behind. There is no discharge in the area nor any noticable swelling. Nor is there any response to my touching the surrounding area. Is there anything I can personally do to give him some relief?

Depends on the cause. Is the dog scooting its butt on the carpet/ground too?

It may be the anal glands are not releasing during bowel movements. Are the movements very soft?

If it's right in the anal area and not 'above' where the tail is my guess it's the anal glands needing expressing or perhaps some worms.

If you're unsure and either way if it continues a consultation with your vet is recommended.

Take a sample of stool with you in a sterile container. Take a sample from the tip, middle and end of the movement. If there is mucus put some in the container as well. Sounds grosse but worth the effort if there are parasites ;)

If anal glands its stinky and messy and if you've not done this before leave it to the vet to do TRUST ME you don't wanna attempt that one yourself! :eek: