Does Every Dog Need to Express Anal Glands?
What are anal glands?
Anal glands, also known as anal sacs, are specialized exocrine glands found in dogs. They serve several important functions.
The anal glands produce a unique, pungent scent that dogs use to identify each other. When dogs meet, they often sniff each other's rears to gather information about one another.
Additionally, these glands help mark territory. Dogs leave their distinctive scent on their territory as a way to assert their presence.
Another practical role of the anal glands is to lubricate the anal area, making it easier for dogs to defecate comfortably. If a dog is startled, the anal sphincter muscles contract, and the anal gland secretions are released as well.
In a natural state, these secretions are expelled along with feces. Normally, dogs do not require anal gland expression.
However, if a dog has soft stools or diarrhea, the secretions may accumulate in the anal glands, leading to inflammation, swelling, abscesses, and an unpleasant odor. In severe cases, this can even cause the anal sac to rupture, resulting in loss of appetite, constipation, and a lack of mobility.
Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that a dog's anal glands do not become obstructed.
Signs of Anal Gland Discomfort
Rubbing the rear on the ground
Frequently looking at the tail
Licking around the anal area
Tail held low
Sitting close to the ground
Pay special attention to small dogs and those prone to diarrhea
Small dogs with slender bodies may have difficulty expelling anal gland secretions on their own and may require regular cleaning.
As mentioned earlier, dogs that are prone to diarrhea are also more susceptible to anal gland blockages. It is important to monitor their diet to reduce the occurrence of soft stools and prevent the accumulation of waste that could lead to disease.
Treatment for Anal Gland Issues
Anal gland inflammation is more common in adult dogs than in puppies and is characterized by the presence of yellowbrown fluids that cause a foul smell. If a dog exhibits unusual behaviors, such as rubbing its rear on the ground, it is advisable for the owner to clean the anal glands to prevent blockages and inflammation.
Expressing Anal Glands
Expressing anal glands can be a challenging task, and many people are unsure of how to proceed. The glands are located at the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions around the anus. Owners can attempt to express the glands, but since they are beneath the skin, it can be difficult to find the correct location. It is important to proceed with caution to avoid causing harm to the dog.
During the expression process, avoid making direct eye contact with the dog.
The smell of anal gland secretions can be quite unpleasant, so it is recommended to wear a mask and gloves.
Handle the dog gently and avoid using excessive force to prevent injury.
After expressing the glands, you can clean the area with warm water soaked in cotton or a towel.
It is best to perform this task before giving the dog a bath to remove any unpleasant odors.
We recommend that, when bathing your dog at a pet store, leave the gland expression to the professionals.
If you bathe your dog at home, it is still advisable to take them to a pet store regularly for grooming. This will ensure that their nails are trimmed, they receive a full body check, undergo training, and have their anal glands expressed.
