Anal GlandsUpdated a month ago

Understanding Anal Glands in Dogs

What are anal glands?
Anal glands are small scent glands located under the skin on either side of a dog’s anus—roughly at the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions. These glands secrete a foul-smelling, oily fluid that helps dogs mark territory and recognise one another.

💩 How Do They Work?

• Normally, only a small amount of fluid is released when a dog passes faeces, so humans rarely notice the odour.
• Dogs may also express the glands:
  • While urinating
  • When greeting other dogs
  • When frightened or startled
• In most cases, the glands function without any intervention.

⚠️ When Things Go Wrong

Problems can develop if the glands:

• Become blocked
• Fail to empty properly
• Become infected

An untreated blockage can lead to infection, abscess formation, and eventual rupture.

🔍 Signs of Anal Gland Issues

• Scooting (rubbing or dragging the bottom on the ground)
• Licking or chewing at the base of the tail or around the anus
• Constipation
• Pain when passing faeces or when sitting
• Foul odour
• Swelling or redness around the anus
• General pain or discomfort near the anus

🏥 Treatment & Management

If the glands are blocked or infected, they must be expressed (emptied) by a veterinarian or an experienced professional. Methods include:

• Applying external pressure to the glands
• Inserting a gloved finger into the anus to express them internally

Severe cases may require:

• Sedation for pain management
• Flushing the glands under general anaesthetic
• A course of antibiotics if infection is present

✅ Ongoing Care & Prevention

• Monitor your dog for the symptoms listed above, especially if they have a history of anal gland issues.
• Include anal gland checks during routine veterinary visits.
• Seek veterinary advice promptly if you suspect any problems.