Perfect Dog Anal Gland Expression Method Guide
What are anal glands? They are unique skin glands found in dogs, responsible for secreting substances that can attract the attention of the opposite sex. These glands are shaped like pears and are located on either side of a dog's anus, approximately at the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions. Each gland is individual, with its own opening. They also produce a particularly foulsmelling secretion.
The primary function of anal glands is to assist dogs in defecating and to help them recognize each other. When dogs meet, they often sniff each other's rears to identify one another.
Failure to clean the anal glands regularly can lead to anal gland cystitis, which can disrupt bowel movements, cause unpleasant odors, and lead to bacterial and parasitic infections.
How to Clean:
Lift your dog's tail to make the anus more prominent.
Place your fingers at the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions around the anus and gently squeeze (from bottom to top, from inside to outside, and from light to firm pressure);
Your dog will release a yellowbrown, extremely smelly, sticky fluid. That's it! The anal gland cleaning process is complete.
Important Note: Due to the intense odor, it is recommended to wear gloves during the process. If the liquid you squeeze out has a reddish tint, it indicates inflammation, and you should seek veterinary care promptly. If you can feel a buildup that won't come out, you should also seek veterinary attention. It is sufficient to clean the anal glands once a month; excessive squeezing can weaken your dog's ability to fight off bacteria. Small dogs are more prone to blockages than large dogs, and dogs that eat a lot of meat are more susceptible to blockages than those on a vegetarian diet.
If the smell is too much for you to bear or you are not confident in your cleaning technique, you can also take your dog to a professional pet grooming service once a month for a proper anal gland cleaning.
