Dog Anal Glands - What You Need To Know

Chances are you've heard the term "dog anal glands", and you probably have a few questions. What are they? Does every dog have them? The answer to the second question is yes, every dog has anal glands. And chances are, depending on your breed, you may never have to even think about them. But in some cases these glads can fill up. The result is, at best, an uncomfortable situation for your pet. At worst there can be an infection or some other serious problem.

So let's back up and talk about what these dog anal glands are. Basically they are two small sacs, on on each side and just inside the anus. They will fill with a liquid until the dog defecates. When this happens, the liquid is typically pushed out of the glands and excrected along with the feces.

There are other times when this happens as well. If your pet becomes excited, fearful, or nervous this dark and foul smelling liquid can also be secreted. You'll smell it, and may see it under his tail, near his rectum, or even on the floor.

The real problems occur when these glands over fill or simply don't empty properly. This is a common problem in canines. The result is your dog becomes uncomfortable and his natural instinct is to relieve his distress. Surely you've seen a dog scooting on the floor on his rear end. This could be his way of trying to relieve the discomfort. Other dogs might try to bite or lick the area causing the problem. And still others may keep their tail tucked in response to this discomfort.

The good news is that you can help your pet by getting rid of the liquid manually. At least I think it's good news, because it's certainly not pleasant for your or your pet. The easiest way is to manually express the liquid by squeezing the area on either side of the anus. You are essentially milking or forcing the fluid out. A bit more unpleasant way to do this is by putting a finger inside the anus (wear a rubber glove and lubricate). Use one finger on the outside, the other on the inside. You should be able to see the fluid excreting through the opening. If the thought of this makes you sick, have a groomer or veterinarian do it for you.

Just be sure you don't let the fluid build up too much. Eventually it will chance and become thicker making it more difficult to get out. If this has already happened then probably seeing your vet is the best bet here. Whatever you choose, don't let the problem get out of hand or your pet will get an infection or other serious problem.

That means your pet will need flushing treatments, and possibly antibiotics, pain medication and sedation. In severe instances where the dog anal glads repeatedly fill your bet may suggest surgical removal. This procedure can cause other problems like temporary or even permanent fecal incontinence, so make sure you try not to let it get to this point.