Dog Anal Gland Problems: When to Express and How to Do It Yourself?

Have you noticed your dog "scooting" on the ground recently, or starting to smell strange just days after a bath? This is likely a sign that the anal glands need attention. Understanding when to address this issue and how to do it correctly can help your dog avoid discomfort and the risk of inflammation.

## What Are Anal Glands?

Anal glands are two small sacs located on either side of your dog's anus (at approximately the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions) that secrete fluid with a distinctive odor. For dogs, this scent acts like an "ID card"—they learn about each other by sniffing each other's rear ends.

Under normal circumstances, when dogs defecate, the pressure from the stool naturally expresses the anal glands, releasing the secretion. However, some dogs may have difficulty emptying them for various reasons, leading to blockage issues.

## When Do Anal Glands Need to Be Expressed?

If your dog shows no abnormal symptoms, there's no need for manual expression. However, the following types of dogs may need regular assistance:

* **Small dogs**: Their smaller size and weaker muscles may not provide enough pressure during defecation
* **Senior dogs**: Muscle deterioration makes natural expression more difficult
* **Obese dogs**: Fat accumulation may interfere with gland emptying
* **Dogs with chronically soft stools**: Loose stools don't provide enough pressure

## Warning Signs That Expression Is Needed

When your dog exhibits the following behaviors, it indicates the anal glands may be blocked or causing discomfort:

1. **Frequent scooting**: Dragging their rear end along the ground
2. **Constantly licking or biting their rear**: Persistently focused on their back end, unable to settle
3. **Swollen anus**: Discoloration around the anus, or palpable lumps
4. **Unusual odor**: Strong fishy smell appearing just days after bathing
5. **Difficulty defecating**: Squatting for a long time but unable to go, or appearing uncomfortable during bowel movements

If you notice these symptoms, it's advisable to check whether the anal glands need expressing.

## Steps for Expressing Anal Glands at Home

### Tools Needed

* Disposable gloves
* Several tissues or gauze pads
* Warm water and towel (for cleaning)
* Treats (for rewarding afterward)

### Procedure

1. **Stabilize your dog**: Have another person help hold the dog, or do it during bath time for easier cleanup
2. **Lift the tail**: Gently hold the base of the tail with your left hand and lift it up to expose the anus
3. **Locate the glands**: Put on a glove on your right hand, cover the anus opening with tissue, and place your thumb and index finger on either side of the anus (at 4 and 8 o'clock positions)
4. **Express outward from inside**: First press gently inward toward the deeper area, then push outward toward the anus opening in an "L" shaped motion
5. **Clean up**: Wipe clean with warm water after expressing
6. **Reward**: Give your dog treats and praise to create a positive association

### Important Notes

* Keep all movements gentle throughout; excessive force isn't necessary
* Normal secretion is a clear to light brown liquid with a fishy smell
* If the expressed material appears bloody, pus-like, or has a foul odor, stop immediately and see a vet
* If you're unsure about the technique, have a veterinarian or professional groomer demonstrate first

## Recommended Expression Frequency

* Dogs with no symptoms: No special expression needed
* Dogs prone to blockage: Approximately every 2-4 weeks
* Dogs with history of inflammation: Follow veterinarian recommendations

## Consequences of Untreated Anal Gland Problems

If blockage isn't addressed promptly, it may progress to:

* **Anal gland infection**: Gland becomes inflamed and swollen, causing severe pain
* **Anal gland abscess**: Infected and filled with pus, requiring antibiotic treatment
* **Anal gland rupture**: The gland bursts through the skin, creating an open wound with serious infection risk

These conditions all require professional veterinary treatment, and the cost and suffering for your dog are far greater than regular maintenance.

## How to Prevent Anal Gland Problems

* **Maintain ideal weight**: Prevent obesity that causes expression difficulties
* **High-fiber diet**: Helps form firm stools that naturally express the glands
* **Adequate exercise**: Increases intestinal movement and bowel regularity
* **Plenty of water**: Helps the digestive system function properly

If you're not confident doing this yourself, leaving it to a professional veterinarian or pet groomer is the safest choice. After all, your dog's comfort and health are what matters most.

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**References:**
* [BonBon Pet - Should You Express Your Dog's Anal Glands](https://www.bonbonpet.com.tw/blog/posts/dog-anal-gland-cleaning)
* [Doggy Lab - Dog's Rear Smells Strange? It's the Anal Glands](https://www.doggy-lab.com/blog/anal-gland)
* [PetAngel - What Are Anal Glands and How to Express Them](https://www.petangel.com.tw/zh-TW/blogs/pets-knowledge/95175)
* [Ilea Life - Complete Guide to Pet Anal Glands](https://ileatw.com/肛門腺)

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