Anal Glands in Dogs: Function, Problems, and Care

If you've seen your dog scooting their bottom on the floor or noticed a sudden fishy odor, you might be dealing with anal gland issues. Anal glands in dogs are two small scent sacs on either side of the anus that normally release a smelly fluid during defecation. Many owners rarely think about these glands until their pup is dragging their rear in discomfort. These sacs serve as a communication device between dogs, but they can become problematic if they don't empty properly. They may be small, but when clogged or infected, anal glands can cause significant pain and mess. Understanding the function of anal glands, the common problems that arise, and how to care for them will help keep your dog comfortable and healthy.

What Are Anal Glands in Dogs?

Anal glands (also called anal sacs) are two small pouches located just under the skin at roughly the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions around a dog’s anus. Each sac contains oil and sweat glands that produce a foul-smelling, oily liquid. This fluid varies in color and consistency but is often brownish and very pungent. During a normal bowel movement, the pressure of firm stool passing through the rectum presses on these sacs and expresses (empties) the fluid through tiny ducts beside the anus. Essentially, the dog “marks” the stool with its personal scent each time it defecates. Dogs may also involuntarily squirt a small amount of anal gland fluid if they become extremely scared or excited – many pet owners have experienced this surprise at the vet or groomer.

Why Dogs Have Anal Glands

Anal gland secretions serve as a form of chemical communication among animals. The strong odor is unique to each dog, acting like a canine fingerprint or calling card. When dogs sniff each other’s hind ends, they are investigating these glandular scents to gather information about the other dog’s identity, diet, and even emotional state. In the wild, marking territory with anal gland secretions is an evolutionary advantage – it lets animals leave behind a “message” for others. A likely purpose of a dog’s anal glands is to serve as territorial scent markers, similar to how they urinate on objects to mark territory. Some experts also theorize that the oily fluid may help lubricate stool passage, though communication is the primary role.

Quick Fact: These scent glands are evolutionarily similar to those of skunks (though far less potent). Skunks use their anal sacs for defense, while dogs use them mostly for social signaling. Dogs, cats, and many other mammals have anal glands, but our domesticated dogs don’t truly need them for survival – in fact, dogs can live healthy lives even if the glands are removed due to chronic problems.

Signs of Anal Gland Problems

When anal glands don’t work properly or become impacted, dogs usually show some clear signs of discomfort. Be alert to the following common symptoms of anal gland trouble:

Scooting: Dragging the rear end across the floor or ground is a classic sign. Dogs scoot to try to relieve pressure or itchiness in full anal sacs.
Excessive licking or biting: You may see your dog persistently licking the anal area or biting at the base of the tail and hind end due to irritation.
Foul “fishy” odor: Anal gland fluid has a very pungent, fishy smell. A strong, unusual odor from your dog’s backside (or wet spots of smelly fluid on surfaces) can mean the glands have leaked or are overfull.
Difficulty defecating or sitting: Dogs with painful anal glands may strain, yelp, or show reluctance to defecate. They might appear hesitant to sit down or have their tail tucked due to discomfort in the rear.
Swelling or discharge: Impacted or infected glands can cause visible swelling or redness around the anus. In advanced cases, you might notice pus or blood-tinged discharge draining from an abscess near the rectum.

Any combination of these signs – especially scooting coupled with a bad odor – is a strong indication that your dog’s anal glands need attention. It’s wise to contact your veterinarian if you observe these symptoms repeatedly or intensely.

Common Anal Gland Issues

Anal glands in dogs can develop several common problems. Most issues arise when the fluid isn’t released naturally and builds up in the sacs. The main anal gland disorders seen in dogs are impaction, infection (sacculitis), abscesses, and chronic dysfunction. Identifying which issue your dog is experiencing is important, as treatment varies for each.

Impaction

Impaction is the earliest and most frequent anal gland problem. It occurs when the anal sacs fail to empty properly, causing the gland fluid to accumulate and thicken into a firm paste. The ducts from the sacs may get clogged or narrowed, so the secretion cannot escape. As the sacs fill up, they become distended and uncomfortable for the dog. Impacted anal glands often feel like firm lumps when gently palpated. A dog with impaction will show the telltale signs – intense scooting, licking, and discomfort – as they attempt to relieve the pressure. Impaction itself is not an infection, but it can lead to one. If the packed material isn’t expressed out, bacteria can overgrow in the gland. Minor impactions are relieved by manually expressing the sacs, but prolonged or recurrent impaction sets the stage for further complications.

Infection (Anal Sacculitis)

When bacteria invade an impacted anal sac, an infection can develop. The term anal sacculitis refers to inflammation or infection of the anal sac lining. The built-up gland material is an inviting environment for bacterial overgrowth. An infected anal gland will become very painful, and you may see swelling. Often an anal gland infection causes yellow or bloody drainage on the dog’s rear end or where they’ve been sitting. In veterinary exams, the expressed fluid may appear thick, discolored, or purulent (pus-filled). Dogs with anal sacculitis may abruptly start scooting or biting at the area due to the sharp irritation. This condition usually requires intervention: the vet will express and flush out the infected sacs and may instill an antibiotic and steroid medication into the gland. Oral antibiotics and pain relief are often prescribed as well to clear the infection and reduce inflammation. Catching an infection early (when you notice your dog’s increased discomfort or any pus/blood discharge) is important to prevent the next stage: abscess formation.

Abscess

If an infected anal gland is left untreated, it can form an abscess – a pocket of pus within the gland or surrounding tissue. An anal gland abscess typically causes a visible, painful swelling next to the anus. The area may appear reddened or purple and feel warm to the touch. Abscesses are excruciating for the dog; you might see the dog suddenly crying out, refusing to sit, or even limping due to the severe pain near the tail base. Often, an abscess will eventually burst through the skin, creating a draining hole (fistula) that leaks bloody pus. You might notice blood or pus on your dog’s fur or bedding if it ruptures. An anal gland abscess is an emergency situation – it requires prompt veterinary treatment. The vet will lance (open) and flush the abscessed gland, thoroughly clean the area, and administer antibiotics and pain medication. Warm compresses on the area at home can also aid healing. With proper care, the tissue will heal over a week or two. In some cases, an abscess that keeps recurring might lead a veterinarian to consider surgical removal of the gland.

Chronic Anal Gland Disease

For some unfortunate dogs, anal gland problems become a chronic, recurrent issue. Dogs with chronic anal sac disease may experience frequent impactions or infections every few months. Over time, repeated infections can cause scarring and fibrosis around the ducts, further narrowing them. This makes the glands even more prone to obstructing again – a frustrating cycle. One study found a relapse rate of around 40% in dogs with anal gland disease, often with impactions recurring in 4–5 months and abscesses in about 10 months. Underlying factors like allergies or anatomical abnormalities may be driving these recurrences. For dogs with chronic anal gland inflammation, veterinarians sometimes recommend regular preventive expressions (for example, monthly) to empty the sacs before they become impacted. Adding dietary fiber and addressing any root causes (diet, allergies, etc.) is also critical for management. In severe chronic cases – when a dog has constant trouble and pain despite conservative care – surgical removal of the anal glands (anal sacculectomy) can be considered as a last resort. This procedure usually cures the gland issue permanently, but it carries some risks (such as fecal incontinence in a small percentage of cases). Fortunately, most dogs, even those with recurring problems, respond well to medical management and don’t require surgery.

Behavioral Impacts

Anal gland issues don’t just cause physical symptoms – they can affect a dog’s behavior and quality of life. A dog with irritated anal glands may become increasingly agitated or restless. You might notice your dog snapping toward their tail, suddenly jumping up from a sitting position, or showing general irritability. Some dogs develop anxiety or aversion to being handled in the hind end area; for example, your dog may refuse grooming or inspection near the tail due to anticipating pain. In chronic cases, dogs might even resist defecating because they expect it to hurt, which can lead to constipation. Owners of dogs with recurring anal gland problems often report that their pet seems “not like themselves” – the dog is distracted by the discomfort. On the other hand, you may also observe a quick improvement in mood and activity once impacted glands are relieved. Additionally, as noted earlier, dogs under stress can suddenly empty their anal glands involuntarily. This “fight or flight” response can startle a dog (and definitely startles any nearby humans with the smell!), potentially compounding the dog’s stress. Overall, paying attention to your dog’s grooming habits and attitude can provide clues: a usually easy-going dog who starts obsessively licking his rear or acting uncomfortable may be signaling an anal gland flare-up.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to anal gland problems in dogs. Understanding why these issues occur will help you address the root cause and prevent future episodes. The most common causes and risk factors include diet and stool consistency, breed and anatomical differences, obesity, and allergies or skin conditions.

Quick Fact: Veterinary experts note that the top three causes of anal gland trouble in dogs are chronic loose stools, trauma to the glands, and malposition of the glands. In other words, if a dog’s poop is frequently too soft, if the glands have been irritated or damaged, or if the sacs just sit at an awkward angle, the dog is far more likely to have anal gland issues.

Diet and Stool Consistency: Diet is a major factor in anal gland health. Dogs that consume inadequate fiber or poor-quality food may produce chronically soft or loose stools that do not press firmly on the anal sacs during defecation. Without that natural pressure, the glands may fail to empty and gradually become impacted. On the opposite end, if a dog is frequently constipated with very hard, small stools, the sacs might not get squeezed effectively either. Ideally, a dog should have well-formed, firm (but not rock-hard) stools to ensure the anal glands get expressed. Low-fiber diets and bouts of diarrhea are both recognized risk factors for anal sac disease. Likewise, an abrupt change in diet that alters stool consistency can trigger gland problems. There’s some debate about kibble vs. raw diets in this context: Many dogs on high-fiber kibble diets have larger bulky stools that help empty the glands, while raw-fed dogs often have smaller, firm stools due to higher protein and bone content. Both diet styles can work – the key is that your dog’s diet should produce consistently firm, formed bowel movements. Inadequate dietary fiber is a controllable risk factor. Adding fiber (through high-fiber dog food or supplements) can bulk up the stool so that it exerts more pressure and naturally expresses the sacs each time your dog goes potty.

Breed and Anatomy: Small breed dogs are far more prone to anal gland maladies than large breed dogs. Anal sac disease “can occur across all breeds, however smaller dogs tend to be affected more often,” according to veterinary data. Breeds such as Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Toy Poodles, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and Dachshunds seem to have a higher incidence of gland impaction and infection. One study found Chihuahuas to be the most commonly affected breed, whereas large breeds like German Shepherds are less frequently impacted. It’s speculated that small dogs may have comparatively narrow anal sac ducts, or softer stool, or other anatomical quirks that predispose them. There is no strong sex predisposition (males and females are equally at risk), but most anal gland issues arise after a dog reaches maturity – it’s uncommon in puppies. Apart from breed, anatomical abnormalities can play a role. Some dogs simply have anal sacs positioned unusually deep or with ducts that don’t open well, a situation sometimes called malposition. If the openings of the glands are higher up in the anal canal or the ducts are very narrow, even normal stool might not empty them fully. Additionally, trauma or damage to the glands can cause scarring that narrows the ducts. For example, a dog that had a prior abscess or a dog who has been repeatedly (and roughly) expressed by someone could develop scar tissue. Such dogs can fall into a cycle of chronic issues. In these cases, the underlying anatomical issue must be addressed (sometimes via surgery) to truly fix the problem.

Obesity and Poor Muscle Tone: Overweight dogs have a tougher time with anal glands for a couple of reasons. Excess fat in the pelvic area can mechanically obstruct the normal expression of the sacs – essentially, fat can crowd the space and even compress the ducts. Obesity also tends to go along with less exercise and weaker muscles. Dogs rely on the tone of the muscles around the anus (the anal sphincter and pelvic muscles) to help milk the glands when they poop. In obese dogs, those muscles may be weaker, and the pressure generated may be insufficient. Moreover, an overweight dog often has softer stools (due to diet or sluggish metabolism), compounding the issue. All this leads to retention of sac contents in obese dogs. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can significantly reduce anal gland problems. Exercise helps too – regular walks and activity stimulate normal bowel movements and muscle strength, which can aid natural gland emptying. If your dog is overweight and suffers anal gland impactions, talk to your vet about a weight loss plan as part of the treatment strategy.

Allergies and Skin Inflammation: There is a strong correlation between allergies and recurrent anal gland issues in many dogs. Food allergies or intolerances can lead to chronic soft stools or diarrhea, which sets the stage for gland impactions. In fact, many dogs with food sensitivities show up at the vet for repeated anal gland infections or even abscesses. Additionally, dogs with atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies causing skin irritation) often have inflammation that extends to the perianal area. The chronic skin inflammation may cause the anal sacs to become more reactive or prone to infection. Allergies also cause dogs to lick and chew themselves more, and that could include the anal region, potentially introducing bacteria. If your dog has persistent anal gland troubles, it’s worth discussing an allergy workup with your vet. In some cases, switching the dog to a novel protein or hypoallergenic diet can firm up the stool and dramatically improve anal gland health. Managing seasonal allergies (with medications or supplements) to reduce overall skin inflammation can likewise relieve stress on the anal glands. In short, anal glands are part of the skin apparatus, so anything that chronically inflames the skin (like allergies) can contribute to gland problems. By addressing underlying allergies – often through diet trials or allergy medications – you may solve the anal gland issue at its source.

Other factors that may contribute to anal gland problems include seborrhea (a skin condition causing overactive skin glands and excess secretion), and insufficient exercise or hydration (leading to poor GI motility). Every dog is a bit different, and sometimes more than one of the above factors is involved. A veterinarian can help pinpoint the likely causes if your dog has recurrent issues, by looking at the dog’s overall health, diet, and lifestyle.

Anal Gland Expression

The term “anal gland expression” refers to manually emptying a dog’s anal glands by gently squeezing them. Many dog owners first learn about this when a groomer or vet tech mentions expressing the dog’s glands. But when is it actually necessary to express a dog’s anal glands? Ideally, if a dog’s anal glands are functioning normally, they empty on their own during defecation and do not require any manual help. In fact, most dogs go their whole lives without ever needing their glands expressed by a human. We typically resort to manual expression only when a dog is showing symptoms (like scooting or discomfort) or if a vet finds the sacs abnormally full during an exam. In those cases – especially if the dog is in pain or the glands are impacted – expressing the glands provides relief and can prevent an impending infection.

Routine expression is a debated topic. Some groomers include external anal gland expression as part of a regular grooming package for small breeds. However, if a dog is not having any issues, regularly squeezing the glands “just because” may do more harm than good. Overzealous or improper expression can irritate the gland tissues. It’s not uncommon for dogs to start having anal gland problems after a history of frequent grooming expressions. Why? Because groomers (and untrained individuals) typically perform external expression, meaning they squeeze the glands from outside the anus. This method often does not fully empty the sacs and can actually force some fluid deeper inside, while also inflaming the duct openings. The result is residual material left in the gland and swelling of the duct, which sets the stage for impaction or infection. Veterinarians and trained veterinary nurses, on the other hand, usually perform internal expression – a lubricated, gloved finger is inserted a short way into the rectum to gently milk each gland between the finger and thumb. This technique tends to empty the sacs more completely. It’s also done with knowledge of the anatomy, minimizing trauma.

So, should you express your dog’s anal glands yourself at home? In general, it’s only recommended for owners to do this if instructed and demonstrated by a veterinarian. Manually expressing anal glands is messy (expect a smelly fluid surprise) and if done improperly it can hurt your dog. There’s also a risk of being bitten if the dog is in pain. If you are not confident or your dog is very wiggly or reactive, it’s best to leave this procedure to the professionals. Many vets advise against routine home expression unless the dog has a known chronic issue and you’ve been taught the correct method. Over-manipulating the glands can lead to inflammation or even trauma, as noted. Most importantly, if the glands are already infected or abscessed, you should not attempt to squeeze them yourself – that needs veterinary care.

Safety Note: Unless you’re properly trained, do not attempt to express your dog’s anal glands at home. Improper technique or excessive pressure can cause pain and injury. Groomers generally are only allowed to express externally, which often fails to empty the gland completely and can create inflammation in the ducts. This may actually increase the risk of impaction and infection. Always consult a veterinarian if you suspect anal gland problems. A vet can safely express the glands internally and address any infection with the appropriate treatment.

When might manual expression be needed? If your dog is showing signs of fullness (scooting, etc.), a quick trip to the vet or groomer for an expression can resolve the immediate discomfort. Dogs who have had past impactions might benefit from periodic preventive expressions (e.g. every few weeks), but this schedule should be discussed with your vet. If a dog’s glands are routinely filling up, it’s important to investigate why – for example, is the stool consistently too soft? Is there an underlying allergy? Simply emptying them over and over treats the symptom but not the cause. Vets will often combine expression with other treatments like dietary changes or medications to break the cycle. In some cases of severe pain, the veterinarian may sedate the dog to express the glands and flush them, especially if an abscess is present. This keeps the dog comfortable and allows thorough cleaning of the sacs.

In summary, know that not all dogs need their anal glands expressed manually. It is not a routine necessity for most dogs. Use your dog’s symptoms as a guide, and when in doubt, let a veterinary professional handle it. They will also check the character of the gland fluid – if it’s unusually thick, bloody, or smelly, that clues the vet into issues that may need more than just expression (such as infection requiring medication). And if your groomer has been expressing your dog’s glands regularly and your dog starts having problems, consider speaking with your vet about whether those expressions are truly needed.

Natural Support and Prevention

While anal gland problems are common, there are many steps you can take to support your dog’s anal gland health naturally. The goal is to promote firm, regular stools and reduce factors that cause gland inflammation. Here are some natural remedies and preventive tips to keep your dog’s anal glands working properly:

Feed a High-Fiber Diet: Ensuring your dog’s diet has adequate fiber is one of the best ways to prevent anal gland issues. Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps produce that firm “log” shape that presses on the anal sacs during bowel movements. In many cases, increasing fiber for dogs with anal gland problems leads to marked improvement. You can boost fiber by choosing a high-fiber dog food or adding safe people foods like plain canned pumpkin, sweet potato, or green beans to meals. Start with small amounts and increase gradually to avoid diarrhea. The added fiber will promote healthy digestion and proper stool formation. Bulkier stools naturally express the glands, so diet is a foundational prevention strategy. (Always provide plenty of fresh water alongside a higher-fiber diet to keep things moving smoothly.)
Maintain a Healthy Weight (and Exercise): Keeping your dog fit and trim is important for anal gland health. Obesity is a risk factor for impaction because excess perineal fat can interfere with gland emptying. Overweight dogs also tend to have weaker muscle tone. Regular exercise not only helps with weight control but also stimulates normal bowel movements. Aim for daily walks or play sessions to get your dog’s system moving. A healthy, active dog is more likely to have regular firm stools. Weight management is so beneficial that vets often see overweight dogs’ anal gland issues resolve after the dog sheds some pounds. Exercise and proper weight will also reduce the chance of related problems like soft stool or diarrhea due to poor diet. In short, fit dogs have fewer gland issues – another great reason to keep your pup at an ideal weight.
Try Natural Fiber Supplements: If your dog’s diet alone isn’t doing the trick, you can use supplements as natural remedies for anal glands. Popular options include psyllium husk (the fiber in Metamucil) and canned pumpkin – both are excellent sources of soluble fiber that can firm up stool. Even a tablespoon of plain pumpkin puree added to each meal can make a difference by bulking up stools (just avoid pumpkin pie filling with spices and sugar). Psyllium fiber can be sprinkled on food; ask your vet for guidance on the amount, since too much can cause the opposite problem (diarrhea). There are also commercial anal gland supplements (like powders or chews) that contain specialized fiber blends (often including pumpkin, ground flaxseed, and seaweed fiber such as kelp) designed to support stool bulk. These can be convenient for dogs that refuse high-fiber foods. Whichever method you choose, give fiber supplements a few weeks to show results, and adjust the dose as needed to keep the stool in the Goldilocks zone (not too soft, not too hard). Note: When adding any fiber, make sure your dog has access to plenty of water. Fiber absorbs water, and adequate hydration is needed to prevent constipation.
Use Digestive Supplements and Anti-Inflammatories: Beyond fiber, several supplements can promote overall anal gland and digestive health. Probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics can firm up stool and improve gastrointestinal function, which in turn helps the anal glands empty properly. A healthy gut microbiome can also reduce inflammation. Many probiotic products formulated for pets include some fiber (like inulin) as well, offering dual benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) are another excellent addition – they act as natural anti-inflammatories. Omega-3 supplements have been shown to support a healthy skin and GI tract, potentially reducing anal gland irritation. Adding a fish oil capsule or pump of liquid fish oil to your dog’s food daily can help control underlying inflammation that might be contributing to gland problems. Some holistic veterinarians also recommend herbs like Slippery Elm Bark for dogs with anal gland issues. Slippery elm is a fibrous, mucilaginous herb that can soothe the digestive tract and normalize stool consistency. It’s often used for pets with diarrhea or IBS. By promoting regular, formed stools, slippery elm may indirectly help the anal sacs empty (plus it’s very gentle). You can mix a small amount of slippery elm powder into food – it becomes a soothing gel in the intestines. Similarly, marshmallow root (often combined with slippery elm) can coat and calm the gut. While these remedies haven’t been studied specifically for anal glands, they are time-honored aids for better poop, which is the end goal. As always, introduce any new supplement gradually and observe your dog’s response.
Schedule Regular Vet Check-Ups: Since anal gland issues can have multiple causes, it’s wise to loop in your veterinarian for prevention, especially if your dog has had recurring problems. A vet check-up can ensure the glands get expressed properly if needed and, more importantly, address underlying conditions like infections or allergies. For example, if your dog’s anal glands keep filling up due to food allergies, no amount of pumpkin will fix it until the allergy is managed – a vet can help identify those triggers. Don’t wait until things are severe: if you notice frequent scooting or any sign of infection (such as blood or pus near the anus), see the vet promptly. Early intervention can save your dog from a lot of discomfort. Your vet may also recommend an anal gland maintenance plan for dogs with chronic issues, which could include periodic expressions at the clinic or at-home care instructions. In some cases of chronic impactions, they might suggest discussing surgery to remove the glands – but this is usually after other options are exhausted. Most dogs won’t need that if we do our best to prevent issues naturally. So, use your vet as an ally in keeping your pup’s rear end healthy. With the right combination of diet, lifestyle, and veterinary guidance, you can often spare your dog (and yourself) from ongoing anal gland woes.

By following the above steps, you’ll be tackling the problem from all angles: improving stool quality, reducing inflammation, and keeping an eye on any developing trouble. Anal gland issues can be unpleasant, but with proactive care, many dogs experience significant improvement or avoid problems altogether.

Anal gland problems in dogs are messy and uncomfortable, but the good news is they are usually manageable with attentive care. The key points to remember are to watch for early signs of trouble – like scooting, excessive rear-end licking, or foul odors – and address them promptly before minor impactions progress to infections. Support your dog’s digestive health through a quality, high-fiber diet and maintain a healthy weight to encourage normal gland function. Most dogs will never need their anal glands manually expressed if they consistently pass firm stools. For those that do run into issues, work with your veterinarian to identify any underlying causes (such as allergies or dietary problems) and to treat infections properly. With a combination of preventive strategies and timely veterinary care, you can help your dog avoid the anguish of anal gland flare-ups and keep that tail wagging in comfort.

FAQs

Q: Why is my dog scooting their butt on the floor?
A: Scooting often indicates that your dog’s anal glands are full or irritated, causing itchiness or discomfort. Dogs drag their rear to try to express the glands or relieve the itch. (Less commonly, severe itchiness from parasites like worms or allergies could also cause scooting, but anal gland issues are the most frequent culprit.)

Q: How often should a dog’s anal glands be expressed?
A: Most dogs never need their anal glands manually expressed on a schedule – the glands empty on their own during normal bowel movements. You should only have them expressed when your dog is showing symptoms of a problem. If your dog has chronic issues, a veterinarian might recommend periodic expressions (e.g. monthly), but this is on a case-by-case basis. There is no universal “routine” interval for expressing anal glands in a healthy dog.

Q: Can I express my dog’s anal glands at home?
A: It is possible but generally not recommended unless a veterinarian has specifically taught you how. Improper technique can hurt your dog or even cause infection. Most owners find it unpleasant and difficult to do safely. If you suspect your dog’s glands need to be emptied, it’s best to have it done by a vet or an experienced groomer to avoid injury.

Q: What can I do to prevent anal gland issues in my dog?
A: The biggest preventive steps are dietary and lifestyle related. Make sure your dog is on a diet with enough fiber to produce firm stools (you can add fiber like pumpkin if needed), keep your dog at a healthy weight, and give them regular exercise. These measures promote natural anal gland emptying. Also, address any recurrent soft stool or diarrhea problems with your vet, as well as any allergies, since those can contribute to anal gland trouble. In short, healthy digestion and weight management are the best defense.

Q: Are certain breeds more prone to anal gland problems?
A: Yes. Small breeds are more commonly affected by anal gland issues than larger breeds. Dogs like Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Beagles, and Poodles tend to have impactions and infections more often. That said, any dog can develop anal gland problems, so all owners should be aware of the signs. Large breeds are not immune, but statistically it’s seen less in dogs above ~50 lbs. Regardless of breed, focus on good diet and grooming habits to help your dog’s anal glands stay healthy.

References

Collins, B. (2025). Anal sac diseases – Canine Health Information. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Gallagher, A. (2022). Anal Sac Disease in Dogs and Cats. Merck Veterinary Manual.
Turner, B. (2024). Anal Glands: What to Do When They Are Infected. Preventive Vet (online resource).
Hall-Geisler, K. (2020). Why Do Dogs Have Anal Glands? HowStuffWorks.
Bascharon, J. (2025). Dog Anal Glands: Common Problems, Treatment, and Prevention. PetMD (Vet-written online article).
Becker, K. (2023). Are You Making These Canine Anal Gland Mistakes? Bark & Whiskers.
Dogs Naturally Magazine (2024). Fiber in Dogs – 9 Health Benefits of Fiber for Dogs. (Section: Improve Anal Gland Issues).
Dorwest Herbs. Anal Glands in Dogs (Inflamed) – Common Problems Guide (natural herbal support for stool consistency).