Breed-Specific Anal Gland Issues in Dogs

If you’ve ever seen your pup scooting their rear on the floor, you’re not alone – anal gland issues affect roughly 1 in 20 dogs. What many dog lovers don’t realize is that these smelly, uncomfortable problems can vary by breed. A tiny Chihuahua and a hefty Labrador might both have anal glands, but their risks and needs aren’t the same. Breed-specific anal gland issues in dogs are influenced by factors like body size, anatomy, weight tendencies, allergy susceptibility, and even coat type. Understanding these breed-linked differences can help you provide targeted care to keep your canine companion comfortable. In this article, we’ll explain why certain breeds are prone to anal gland troubles, and share best practices for managing gland health by breed and life stage.

What Are Anal Glands and Why Breed Matters

The anal glands (or anal sacs) are two small scent glands located on either side of a dog’s anus, roughly at the 4 and 8 o’clock positions under the skin. They produce a foul-smelling, oily fluid that normally gets squeezed out whenever the dog defecates. In the wild, this stinky secretion helps dogs mark territory. In healthy dogs, you might never notice these glands at all. However, if the sacs don’t empty properly, fluid builds up and can become impacted, leading to discomfort, infection, or abscesses. Typical signs of anal gland problems include scooting, excessive licking or biting at the rear, a fishy odor, or swollen areas next to the anus.

So, why does breed matter for anal gland health? It turns out that a dog’s breed can influence many factors that affect how well their anal glands function. Here are some key breed-related factors:

• Body Size & Stool Pressure: Small dogs produce smaller stools that may not press firmly enough to empty the glands. Thus, small dog anal gland problems are more frequent, while large or giant breeds rarely have issues. (Most large dogs naturally express their glands when they poop.)

• Anatomy: Certain body shapes and features can predispose dogs to gland trouble. For example, brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds often have a stocky build or screw tails that may alter how they posture to defecate, potentially affecting gland emptying. Breed anatomy differences – including pelvic structure and tail set – can influence anal gland function.

• Genetics & Gland Characteristics: Some breeds may have a genetic predisposition to thicker gland secretions or smaller duct openings, making impaction more likely. The natural size and shape of the anal sacs can vary by breed line, meaning some dogs are born with glands that don’t drain as easily.

• Weight Predisposition: Breeds that tend to become overweight (like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels) often have more anal gland issues. Excess fat can reduce muscle tone and pressure around the anus, so the glands don’t empty well. Obesity in any breed is a risk factor for chronic anal gland problems.

• Allergy Tendencies: Many breeds prone to food or skin allergies (e.g. Retrievers and German Shepherds) are at higher risk for anal gland trouble. Allergies can lead to inflammation and softer stool or chronic diarrhea, which in turn prevent normal gland emptying. Dogs with itchy skin may also scoot or lick more, irritating their anal area.

• Coat & Grooming Needs: Long-haired, grooming-intensive breeds can have unique gland issues. Dogs with abundant hair around the rear (e.g. Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese) may get fecal matter caught in the fur, blocking the anal gland openings or causing infections. These breeds often rely on regular grooming, and if the area isn’t kept clean and trimmed (a “sanitary trim”), anal gland impactions are more likely. Conversely, improper routine gland expressions by groomers could irritate the sacs if done too often.

In short, breed traits like size, conformation, coat, and typical health issues all play a role in anal gland health. Any dog can develop an anal gland problem, but being aware of canine gland breed risks helps you focus on prevention for your particular pup. Next, we’ll look at which breeds and breed groups are most prone to anal gland issues, and why.

Breeds Prone to Anal Gland Issues

While any dog has anal glands and can occasionally have problems, veterinary experience shows that certain breeds run into anal gland issues far more frequently. Below, we break down some of the common breed categories with higher anal gland problem rates, along with the reasons behind their predisposition.

Toy Breeds (e.g. Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians)

Tiny breeds in the Toy group are notorious for anal gland troubles. Owners of toy dogs often find they need to have the glands manually expressed more regularly – sometimes even as part of routine grooming visits. Why are small dog anal gland problems so common? The issue comes down largely to size and diet. These dogs have narrow anal passageways and produce petite stool volumes that may not create enough pressure to empty the glands each time they defecate. Chihuahua owners, for instance, know that scooting is a frequent annoyance. In fact, one study found Chihuahuas to be the most commonly affected small breed for anal sac issues. Yorkies, Maltese, Pomeranians, and similar tiny breeds often require a little extra help with their anal glands throughout life.

To manage anal gland issues in toy breeds, focus on diet and fiber content. Feeding a high-fiber diet formulated for small dogs can bulk up their stools so the glands get squeezed naturally during potty time. Adding a spoonful of pumpkin or a fiber supplement recommended by your vet is a gentle way to firm up soft stools. Also ensure your little dog stays active – regular walks or play help stimulate bowel movements and tone the muscles around the anus. Watch your toy dog’s weight; even a pound of extra weight on a tiny frame can affect muscle efficiency and increase issues. By keeping your small breed lean, on a good diet, and checking their rear regularly for any odor or swelling, you can greatly reduce anal gland incidents.

Brachycephalic Breeds (e.g. French Bulldogs, Pugs, English Bulldogs)

Flat-faced breeds have big personalities, but unfortunately they can have big anal gland problems too. Brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and Shih Tzus show a higher incidence of anal gland impactions and infections. Part of this is due to their body conformation. These dogs often have a bulldogged stance and corkscrew tails or deep tail pockets, which can create skin fold irritations and make it harder to keep the anal area clean. Their stool may not always exert optimal pressure on the glands when defecating, especially if the dog doesn’t squat completely (some flat-faced dogs have joint or spinal issues that affect posture). Moreover, many brachy breeds are prone to allergies and digestive upsets, resulting in chronic soft stool. Soft stool doesn’t “press out” the gland fluid effectively, so the sacs fill and clog.

Another factor is that brachycephalic dogs tend to be less athletic and more prone to obesity, compounding the risk (an overweight Bulldog with poor muscle tone around the rear is a recipe for gland trouble). According to research, flat-faced dogs have about 2.6 times the risk of anal sac disorders compared to dogs with longer noses. That’s a significant difference. For example, Bulldog anal gland care often needs special attention – many Bulldog owners schedule regular vet visits to have glands checked or expressed. Pugs and Frenchies, too, commonly need help in this department.

If you have a brachycephalic breed, you can be proactive by managing their weight and diet carefully. These dogs benefit from a high-fiber, hypoallergenic diet to keep stools firm and reduce inflammation from food sensitivities. Including omega-3 fatty acids (like fish oil) in their food can help combat skin inflammation from allergies. Ensure your Bulldog or Pug gets moderate exercise to stay fit, as even short daily walks improve muscle tone. Be diligent about hygiene: clean any tail folds and keep the rear area trimmed of excess hair. Pay attention to scooting or discomfort – early veterinary intervention to express the glands can save your pup from painful infections. With mindful care, even these sensitive breeds can avoid frequent anal gland crises.

Allergy-Prone Breeds (e.g. Golden Retrievers, Labradors, German Shepherds)

Some of our most popular family dogs – Retrievers and German Shepherds – have a hidden downside: they’re often allergy-prone breeds. Whether it’s food allergies or environmental allergies (like pollen or dust mites), these dogs can suffer chronic skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset. So how does that connect to anal glands? Allergies in dogs frequently lead to inflammation of the skin and GI tract. A food-allergic Golden Retriever, for instance, might have recurrent soft stools or diarrhea, as well as itchy skin around the rear. The soft stool means the anal glands aren’t squeezed firmly enough during bowel movements, causing fluid build-up. Additionally, the general inflammation makes the anal sac ducts more likely to swell and clog. Dogs with itchy hind ends (due to flea or skin allergies) may also scoot and traumatize their anal area, exacerbating gland problems.

Veterinarians note that skin conditions like food allergy dermatitis and atopic dermatitis are contributing factors to anal sac disease. Breeds like Labradors, Goldens, Boxers, Shar-Peis, and German Shepherds are commonly seen with both allergy issues and anal gland complications. Even though these are medium-large breeds (and larger dogs are generally less prone), their allergy tendency puts them in the higher-risk group for gland impactions and infections. For example, a Labrador with grain allergies might have intermittent loose stool and anal gland flare-ups if the diet isn’t managed.

For allergy-prone breeds, the key is to control the allergy itself. A tailored diet (often a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic dog food) can firm up their poop and reduce inflammation. It’s wise to work with a veterinary nutritionist or your vet to find a diet that agrees with your dog’s system. Adding probiotics for dogs may also help by improving gut health and stool consistency – a healthy microbiome can reduce diarrhea in sensitive dogs. Keep up with any medications or supplements (like antihistamines, omega-3s, or skin supplements) that your vet recommends to manage allergies. Regular anal gland checks are a good idea for these breeds, especially during high-allergy seasons. By keeping allergies in check and maintaining a solid diet, you’ll greatly reduce anal gland incidents in your Golden, Lab, GSD, or other sensitive breed.

Overweight-Prone Breeds (e.g. Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds)

Any dog that is overweight or obese is more likely to have anal gland trouble. But some breeds seem to gain weight more easily than others, and they require extra vigilance. Classic food-motivated breeds like Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and Pugs love to eat and can pack on pounds if their diet isn’t monitored. Unfortunately, carrying that extra weight predisposes them to gland issues. The reason is twofold: First, overweight dogs often have poor muscle tone around the rear end, so the muscles that normally help express the glands aren’t as effective. Second, fat deposits in the anal area can physically interfere with the normal squeezing of the sacs when the dog defecates. Essentially, excess fat can block or cushion the anal sacs so they don’t get emptied fully. It’s no surprise that vets report overweight dogs tend to have chronic anal sac problems.

For breeds like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels that are prone to pudginess, weight management is crucial for anal gland health. Even a moderately chubby dog can start having recurring impactions. Focus on feeding appropriate portions of a balanced diet and go easy on high-calorie treats. A diet rich in fiber can help them feel full while keeping calories in check – many weight-control dog foods have boosted fiber content. Regular exercise is equally important: a fit dog will have better muscle tone to naturally express their glands. Take your Beagle on those walks and play sessions! Dachshund owners should be careful not only for anal glands but also because extra weight strains a Dachshund’s long back. By keeping these breeds lean and active, you address one of the root causes of their anal gland issues. And if you notice your dog has become overweight and is now scooting or needing expressions more often, a weight reduction plan under your vet’s guidance can often dramatically improve gland function over time.

Long-Coated and Grooming-Intensive Breeds (e.g. Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese)

Dogs with long, flowing coats and high grooming needs have a special set of anal gland challenges. Breeds like Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, and Afghan Hounds have hair that can grow densely around the rear end. If not properly maintained, this fur can block the anal gland openings or trap fecal matter. Imagine a small plug of stool or debris drying over the tiny gland duct – it’s easy to see how the gland could then get impacted behind that blockage. Matted or unclean fur around the anus also creates a breeding ground for bacteria, raising the risk of gland infections and abscesses. Moreover, many owners of these breeds rely on professional groomers for regular haircuts and hygiene trims. Groomers will often express anal glands as part of the service. While this can be helpful, there’s a bit of controversy: expressing the glands too frequently (or improperly) might cause irritation or dependence on manual expression. Some vets caution against routine expression by groomers unless the dog truly needs it.

For these long-coated breeds, hygiene is paramount. Maintain a consistent grooming schedule – typically every 4–6 weeks – that includes a “sanitary trim” (trimming the hair around the anus and underside) to prevent any blockage or mess. Check under your dog’s tail frequently, especially if they have soft stools, and gently clean any cling-ons stuck in the fur. If you notice your pup scooting soon after a grooming appointment, it could be due to irritation from expression or even clipper burn; mention it to your groomer or vet so they can adjust the approach. In terms of prevention, all the standard care applies (proper diet, weight, exercise) since many of these dogs are also small breeds. Additionally, ensure your groomer only expresses the anal glands when necessary or if you request it – not all dogs need it every time. If your Shih Tzu or Lhasa has chronic anal gland issues despite good grooming, consult your vet. They may advise more frequent manual expressions (done gently by a vet) or other strategies. With attentive grooming and care, even the fluffiest pup can stay comfortable and avoid anal gland drama.

Life Stage Considerations

Anal gland issues can crop up at any age, but a dog’s life stage may affect how problems are managed and prevented. Puppies, adult dogs, and seniors have different needs when it comes to gland care. Below are some considerations by life stage:

1. Puppies (Under 1 Year): It’s uncommon for very young puppies to have significant anal gland problems – their glands are small and their diet is often well-controlled. In fact, anal sac disease is typically seen in dogs over 1 year old. However, puppies can still occasionally get impactions, especially toy breed pups or those with bouts of diarrhea (common if they have parasites or diet changes). For a puppy, focus on establishing healthy habits: feed a quality diet to produce firm stools, keep them well-hydrated, and introduce them to handling of the rear area (so they get used to grooming or vet checks). If you notice your puppy scooting or uncomfortable, have the vet check early – a quick expression or treating an infection now can prevent a rupture. Overall, puppies rarely need routine gland expressions, but it’s wise to watch small or chronically loose-stooled pups closely.

2. Adult Dogs (1 year to ~7 years): Most anal gland issues tend to peak in adulthood. This is the life stage when breed predispositions really start to show. For example, that Chihuahua or Bulldog who never had a problem as a pup may begin needing gland attention in adulthood as their diet changes or they gain weight. Adult dogs are typically very active, which helps, but they can also encounter life changes (spay/neuter, less exercise due to owner’s schedule, etc.) that might contribute to weight gain or stool changes. It’s important to maintain a consistent routine: a high-fiber diet suited to your dog’s breed and any sensitivities, plus regular exercise to keep things moving. Monitor your adult dog for early signs of anal gland buildup (scooting, licking, “polishing” the floor with their butt) and address issues promptly. Many vets advise that dogs with a history of impaction come in every few months for a gland check/express. Don’t ignore recurring problems, as repeated infections can cause scarring. Adulthood is also a time to consider preventive supplements – some owners add probiotics or fish oil in these years to support digestion and reduce inflammation. With the right care, even breeds prone to issues can get through most of their adult years with minimal gland drama.

3. Senior Dogs (7+ years): In senior dogs, anal gland care may require a bit more vigilance. Older dogs tend to be less active and may have weaker muscle tone, so natural expression of the glands might not happen as efficiently. Seniors are also more prone to constipation or irregular bowel movements (due to diet changes, medications, or less mobility), which can lead to impactions. Additionally, one serious concern in older dogs is the potential for anal gland tumors (anal sac adenocarcinoma), which are uncommon but occur mostly in senior canines. For these reasons, it’s wise to have your vet check your senior’s anal glands at every routine visit. Never assume chronic scooting is “just glands” in an older dog – always rule out any growths. In terms of management, keep your senior on a steady, fiber-rich diet and ensure they get out for potty breaks often to avoid stool buildup. Gentle exercise is still important; even a slow daily walk can help with regularity. If your senior dog has had lifelong gland problems, talk to your vet about whether more frequent manual expressions or even sacculectomy (anal gland removal) is warranted in severe cases. Most importantly, be kind to your senior – if arthritis or stiffness makes self-grooming hard, they’re relying on you to keep them clean back there. A little extra care in their golden years will go a long way to keeping them comfortable.

Breed-Tailored Prevention and Management

No matter the breed, “prevention is better than cure” when it comes to anal gland issues. By being proactive and tailoring your dog’s care to their breed’s needs, you can greatly reduce the chance of impactions or infections. Below are the main areas of prevention and management, each of which you can adjust based on your dog’s size, coat, and predispositions:

Diet and Fiber

Diet is arguably the most important factor in anal gland health. What goes in must come out – and if it comes out well-formed, it will help express the glands naturally. To keep your dog’s anal glands emptying normally, feed a high-quality, high-fiber diet that produces firm, bulky stools. Fiber adds bulk to stool, allowing it to press on the anal sacs during defecation. Many commercial dog foods labeled for “weight control” or “digestive health” have increased fiber and can benefit anal gland function. You can also supplement fiber in your dog’s meals: plain canned pumpkin, psyllium husk (unflavored Metamucil, used in small doses), or specialized fiber supplements for dogs are popular options. Be sure to introduce fiber gradually to avoid gas or diarrhea, and always provide plenty of water with added fiber.

Tailor the diet to your dog’s breed and sensitivities. For example, small breeds might do well with a nutrient-dense kibble plus extra fiber, whereas a breed prone to food allergies may need a grain-free or novel protein diet to keep inflammation down. If your dog is one of the allergy-prone breeds (like a Retriever or Shepherd), consider diets with limited ingredients or hydrolyzed proteins to minimize triggers – reducing GI inflammation will help their glands. Probiotics are another dietary addition to consider: a quality probiotic supplement can promote a healthy gut microbiome, leading to more regular and firm bowel movements. This is especially useful for breeds with sensitive stomachs or those coming off antibiotics for an anal gland infection. Lastly, don’t forget about healthy fats: adding omega-3 fatty acids (e.g. fish oil or salmon oil) to the diet can reduce skin inflammation and might indirectly help anal glands by improving overall skin/gland health. Always adjust your dog’s diet under guidance from a veterinarian or canine nutritionist, especially for major changes. A breed-tailored diet – whether it’s higher fiber, allergen-free, or weight-control – sets the foundation for good anal gland health.

Hydration

Keeping your dog well-hydrated is a simple but often overlooked aspect of anal gland care. Adequate hydration ensures that your dog’s stools aren’t too hard or dry. Hard, dry stool can be difficult for a dog to pass and may not compress the anal glands effectively, just as overly soft stool fails to do so. Each breed’s hydration needs can differ (a large active Lab needs a lot more water than a tiny indoor Maltese), but the rule of thumb is access to fresh water at all times. Encourage your dog to drink, especially if you add fiber to their diet – fiber works best with water to form a good stool gel. You can increase your dog’s water intake by adding a bit of water or low-sodium broth to their kibble, or feeding part of their diet as wet food. Breeds with thick coats or those that live in hot climates may need even more fluids to prevent dehydration. Hydration also ties in with urinary health, but for anal glands the main point is maintaining normal stool consistency. In older dogs or dogs on medications that might dehydrate (like diuretics or some allergy meds), pay extra attention to water consumption. Also, after exercise or on warmer days, ensure your pup replenishes fluids. Simply put, a well-hydrated dog will have healthier bowel movements, which in turn can help those anal glands empty as they should.

Exercise and Weight Management

Regular exercise is beneficial for many reasons, and anal gland health is one of them. Physical activity stimulates the digestive system, helping to keep bowel movements regular. Many dog owners find that their pet tends to poop during or after a walk – that’s exercise at work, massaging the intestines and encouraging stool to move. For breeds prone to anal gland issues, consistent exercise can prevent the cycle of inactivity, weight gain, and poor muscle tone that exacerbates gland problems. Tailor the exercise to your dog’s breed and age: a young Beagle or terrier may thrive with vigorous play and long walks (or even runs), whereas a bulldog or senior dog might do best with shorter, gentle walks and interactive indoor play. The goal is to maintain a healthy weight and strong muscles. Overweight dogs have a much higher risk of chronic anal gland trouble, so keeping your dog fit is one of the best preventive measures. If your dog is already overweight, consult your vet for a safe weight loss plan – shedding even a few pounds can markedly improve how well their anal glands empty on their own.

Exercise also provides mental stimulation, which can reduce stress. Why mention stress? Because stress and anxiety (common in high-strung breeds) can lead to tense or erratic bowel habits and even spontaneous anal gland expressions (like when a dog gets frightened). A well-exercised dog is generally a happier, more regular dog. Breeds with high energy (e.g. herding breeds, retrievers) particularly need enough activity to keep their whole system in balance. On the flip side, if you have a flat-nosed breed that can’t handle strenuous exercise, focus on frequent short outings and play to avoid weight gain. And for those long-backed, short-legged breeds (Dachshunds, Corgis), exercise helps prevent obesity without putting too much strain – swimming can be a great low-impact exercise for them. In summary: exercise your dog in a breed-appropriate way and keep their weight in a healthy range – your dog’s anal glands will thank you.

Grooming Habits

Good grooming is more than just keeping your dog looking nice – it can directly impact their anal gland health, especially for breeds with long or thick coats. For long-coated breeds, establish a routine of brushing and trimming around the hindquarters. Mats or tangles in the fur near the anus can trap feces and block gland ducts, so preventing matting is key. Regularly trim the hair around your dog’s rear (a groomer can do a sanitary trim if you’re not comfortable). Keep the area clean: after your dog poops, it’s not a bad idea to check and wipe them with a pet-safe wipe if residue is left, particularly for fluffy dogs. This level of cleanliness helps minimize bacterial buildup that could track into the anal sacs.

Another aspect of grooming is the practice of anal gland expression. Many grooming salons include anal gland expression by default, especially for small breeds. However, routine expression in a dog that isn’t having issues is not universally recommended. Overzealous or improper squeezing can irritate or even injure the glands. So what’s the right approach? It depends on the individual dog. If your dog (say a Shih Tzu or Lhasa Apso) regularly needs their glands emptied, having a trained professional do it is fine – but consider having it done at the vet’s office rather than the grooming table. Veterinarians and veterinary technicians are trained to gently express internally if needed and can check for abnormal fluid or infection at the same time. If your groomer does express glands, make sure they do it only when the dog shows signs of fullness (scooting, etc.), not automatically each visit. You might instruct them to skip it unless requested. For short-haired breeds that rarely have issues, there’s usually no need for anyone to mess with the glands as a grooming step.

Lastly, pay attention to skin care during grooming. Dogs with tail folds (Bulldogs, Pugs) need those areas cleaned and dried to prevent infections that can indirectly affect the anal region. Also, check under the tail for any redness, swelling, or discharge when brushing your dog. Early detection of a problem (like noticing one side looks puffy or the dog is tender when you touch near the anus) should prompt a vet visit. In summary, keep your dog’s rear well-groomed and monitored. Cleanliness and careful handling go a long way toward preventing anal gland emergencies.

Early Veterinary Intervention

Despite our best preventive efforts, sometimes anal gland issues still occur – and when they do, early intervention by a veterinarian is the best strategy. As soon as you notice warning signs like repetitive scooting, foul “fishy” odor, swelling by the anus, or your dog acting uncomfortable (e.g. suddenly not sitting down easily or constantly licking their backside), take action. Don’t wait for a minor impaction to turn into a nasty abscess. Different breeds may show pain differently (stoic breeds like Labs might hide it, whereas a sensitive small dog might yelp), so use your intuition and get things checked if something seems off.

What can a vet do early on? A veterinarian will perform a rectal exam and manually express the anal glands in a safe manner. If the fluid is infected or abnormal, they might flush the sacs and infuse medication, or dispense oral antibiotics and pain relief if an infection is present. Early treatment can prevent a simple impaction from progressing to a ruptured anal gland, which is very painful and requires more intensive care. Especially for high-risk breeds (all those we discussed above), having a relationship with your vet for periodic anal gland checks is wise. Some owners of chronically affected dogs schedule preventive expressions every 1–2 months at the vet – this can keep the dog comfortable and avoid emergency situations.

Another aspect of early intervention is addressing underlying causes. For example, if your vet notices your dog’s anal glands keep filling up due to allergies, they may suggest a workup or medication for the allergies. If obesity is a factor, your vet can help you formulate a weight loss plan. The earlier you tackle the root cause, the better the long-term outcome. In certain cases, if a specific breed dog has unrelenting issues and is older, a vet might even discuss anal sacculectomy (surgical removal of anal glands) as a last resort – but this is only after other measures fail, since surgery has risks. Fortunately, most anal gland problems can be managed without surgery by being proactive. Remember, when in doubt, see the vet. It’s always better to have a minor issue expressed or treated now than to have your dog suffer in silence or develop a serious infection. Quick veterinary care will save your dog discomfort and keep those tail wags coming.

Anal gland issues may be a smelly business, but with breed-specific awareness and care, you can spare your dog a lot of discomfort. The key takeaway is that individualized gland care by breed and life stage really matters. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work when a Chihuahua’s needs are so different from a German Shepherd’s. By knowing your dog’s breed predispositions – whether they’re a small breed needing more fiber, a Bulldog needing weight control, an allergy-prone Retriever on a special diet, or a fluffy Shih Tzu needing diligent grooming – you can stay one step ahead of anal gland problems. Always keep an eye (and nose) out for early signs of trouble, and address them promptly with your veterinarian’s help. With the right diet, exercise, grooming, and preventive vet care, most dogs (even high-risk breeds) can live comfortably without constant scooting or gland expressions. In the end, a healthy dog means healthy glands. By being attentive to breed-specific needs and providing proactive anal gland care, you’ll help your pup feel their best from puppyhood to their senior years – tail wags and clean carpets included!

FAQs

Are certain dog breeds more prone to anal gland problems than others?
Yes. While any breed can develop anal gland issues, smaller breeds tend to have them most often. Breeds like Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Toy Poodles, Beagles, and Cocker Spaniels are commonly affected, whereas large breeds (Great Danes, Mastiffs, etc.) rarely have chronic gland problems. Certain breed groups – such as toy dogs, brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs, and dogs prone to allergies or obesity – have a higher risk due to their anatomy and health tendencies. For instance, spaniel breeds were shown in one study to have over twice the risk of anal gland disorders compared to non-spaniels. Knowing your breed’s risk can help you take preventive steps early.

Why do small dogs often need their anal glands expressed?
Small dogs often have small-dog problems when it comes to anal glands! The main issue is that tiny dogs produce small, narrow stools that may not generate enough pressure to naturally empty the anal sacs. A Chihuahua or Yorkie, for example, might not compress those glands fully when they poop, so fluid accumulates. Small dogs also have tiny anal gland ducts that can clog easily. Additionally, many small breeds are fed diets that might be richer or lower in fiber (to meet their caloric needs in tiny portions), which can lead to softer stool. The combination of softer output and weaker pressure is a recipe for impactions. This is why vets frequently see small dog anal gland problems and recommend regular checks for breeds under about 20 pounds. The good news is that a high-fiber diet and routine vet or groomer expressions (if needed) can manage this. Many toy breed owners simply schedule a vet or grooming visit every month or two for a quick gland expression to keep their little one comfy.

How can I care for my Bulldog’s anal glands and prevent issues?
Bulldog anal gland care centers on two things: diet and cleanliness. English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs often have a trifecta of risk factors – they are stocky (less agile to empty glands), prone to allergies (softer stools and inflammation), and can be overweight. To prevent issues, feed your Bulldog a fiber-rich, high-quality diet and control their weight strictly. Watch for any food allergies; you may need a special diet if skin or tummy issues are present. Make sure your Bulldog gets daily exercise, even if it’s just short walks, to keep things moving. On the hygiene side, Bulldogs have those famous tail folds and sometimes a corkscrew tail, which can trap dirt and bacteria very close to the anus. Keep the tail area very clean and dry – this may mean wiping under the tail daily with a pet-safe wipe and drying it to prevent infections that could spread to the anal glands. Many Bulldog owners have their vet check the anal glands at every visit, given the breed’s predisposition. Don’t hesitate to take your Bully in for a gland expression if you notice any scooting or odor. Early care prevents abscesses. With a good diet, healthy weight, and diligent cleaning, Bulldogs can definitely have healthy anal glands – just be proactive and regular about it.

Can my dog’s allergies really cause anal gland issues?
Indirectly, yes. Allergies (whether food allergies or environmental) can set off a chain reaction that ends in anal gland problems. Here’s how: Dogs with food or skin allergies often have chronic inflammation throughout their body. This can manifest as inflamed intestinal lining or irritated skin around the anus. An allergic dog might also experience frequent soft stool or diarrhea if the allergen upsets their GI tract. Soft stool doesn’t provide the necessary pressure to empty anal glands, so the glands fill up. Additionally, allergies can cause perianal itching – you might see your dog chewing near the tail base or dragging their butt not because the glands are full, but because their skin itches. However, that scooting can irritate the anal sacs and lead to impaction or infection secondarily. Breeds like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Westies, and Bulldogs commonly have allergies and, not coincidentally, we often see anal gland issues in these dogs. The best approach is to manage the allergy: identify triggers (with the help of a vet, possibly using an elimination diet or allergy testing) and minimize exposure. When the allergy is under control – meaning your dog’s skin and stool normalize – anal gland issues often improve or resolve. In summary, allergies don’t directly infect the anal glands, but they create conditions (inflammation and abnormal stools) that greatly increase the risk of gland problems.

Should I have the groomer routinely express my dog’s anal glands?
It depends on your dog’s needs. If your dog is a breed that frequently has anal gland build-up (like many small dogs or ones with past issues), occasional expression can help prevent impactions. Many grooming salons will express the glands externally as part of the bath package, and this is generally fine if the dog actually has some fluid to release. However, if your dog has never had anal gland problems, routine expression is usually not necessary and not recommended by many vets. Expressing glands that are not full can cause unnecessary irritation. There’s also a risk that frequent squeezing might cause the glands to become inflamed or even lead to scar tissue in the ducts over time. For dogs with healthy anal glands, the motto is “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Let them empty on their own. On the other hand, if your dog does tend to get full glands, it’s often better to have a vet do the expression when needed. Vets can perform a more thorough internal expression and also check the gland fluid for any signs of infection or abnormality. They’ll also know if the glands actually needed emptying. You can certainly ask your groomer to skip anal gland expression unless you specifically request it. Many owners choose to handle glands on an as-needed basis rather than as a reflex every grooming session. In summary: use routine expression only if your individual dog benefits from it; otherwise, it’s perfectly fine (and often preferable) to leave the glands alone and monitor for natural emptying or any emerging problems.

References

1. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (n.d.). Anal sac diseases. Riney Canine Health Center – Canine Health Information. <br>

2. O’Neill, D. G., et al. (2021). Anal sac disorders in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Veterinary Record, 189(7). (Study summary: Royal Veterinary College VetCompass). <br>

3. Merck Veterinary Manual – Rubin, S. (2024). Anal Sac Disease in Dogs. In Disorders of the Rectum and Anus in Dogs (Pet Owner Version). <br>