Should You Express Your Dog’s Anal Glands? Understanding When It’s Necessary (And When It’s Not)

For many dog owners, the topic of anal glands isn’t something that comes up often, until it becomes a problem. Understanding when you should or should not express your dog’s anal glands is essential for their comfort and health. While it’s a common grooming service, it’s not always necessary for every dog. In fact, expressing anal glands too frequently or unnecessarily can lead to more harm than good.

Here’s what every dog owner should know about this sensitive topic!

What Are Anal Glands and What Do They Do?

Dogs have two small sacs located on either side of their anus called anal glands. These glands naturally fill with a smelly, oily fluid that helps dogs mark their territory. Normally, this fluid is expressed naturally when your dog defecates.

However, in some dogs, these glands don’t empty properly. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, or even infection.

When You Should Express Your Dog’s Anal Glands

There are times when manual expression of your dog’s anal glands is necessary. Here are the most common situations where anal gland expression may be recommended:

1. Scooting Behavior

If you notice your dog dragging their rear end across the floor, it’s often a sign that their anal glands are full or irritated.

2. Excessive Licking or Biting at the Rear

Dogs with full or irritated anal glands often lick or chew at their back end. This is their way of trying to relieve the pressure or discomfort.

3. Fishy Odor

A strong, fishy smell coming from your dog’s rear is a common sign that the glands are full or leaking.

4. Swelling or Redness Around the Anus

If the area around your dog’s anus appears swollen, red, or inflamed, it may indicate a gland issue that needs attention.

5. History of Gland Problems

Some breeds, like smaller dogs (Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, and Toy Poodles), are more prone to anal gland issues. If your dog has a history of impacted glands, your veterinarian or groomer may recommend regular expression.

When You Should Not Express Your Dog’s Anal Glands

While many grooming salons offer anal gland expression, not every dog needs it. In fact, expressing anal glands unnecessarily can lead to irritation, inflammation, or even infection.

Here’s when you should avoid expressing your dog’s anal glands:

1. No Signs of Discomfort

If your dog isn’t showing any signs of gland issues - no scooting, licking, or odors - then there’s usually no reason to express the glands.

2. Dogs That Express Naturally

Most healthy dogs express their glands naturally when they poop. Manually expressing glands that are functioning normally can disrupt the body’s natural process.

3. Risk of Damage

Frequent or improper manual expression can damage the sensitive tissues around the glands. This can lead to chronic issues that wouldn’t have existed otherwise.

4. Relying on Non-Professionals

If you’re not trained in how to express anal glands safely, it’s best to leave it to a veterinarian or professional groomer. Incorrect technique can cause pain, rupture, or infection.

The Bottom Line: Watch Your Dog’s Behavior

The best rule of thumb is to pay attention to your dog’s behavior. If your dog seems uncomfortable, or if you notice any of the signs mentioned above, consult your veterinarian or a professional groomer.

If your dog has never had gland issues and isn’t showing symptoms, there’s no need to include anal gland expression as a routine service.

When in doubt, always check with your vet before deciding on any gland expression. Your dog’s comfort and health should always come first!

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