Anal Gland Infections vs. Impactions: Diagnosis and Natural Prevention

Anal gland issues are a common source of discomfort for dogs, but not all problems are the same. In particular, anal gland infections vs. impactions represent two related yet distinct conditions. An impaction is a blockage of the anal sac fluid, whereas an infection means bacteria have caused active inflammation in the gland. Distinguishing between these conditions is important – an impaction can often be resolved before it worsens, while an infection may require urgent veterinary care to prevent abscesses or ruptures. All breeds and ages of dogs can experience anal gland trouble, though small breeds tend to have issues more frequently. By understanding the difference between an impacted anal gland and an infected one, dog owners can respond with the right treatment and use natural preventive measures to keep their pets comfortable and healthy.

What Are Anal Gland Impactions?

Anal gland impaction in dogs occurs when the anal sacs fail to empty properly during defecation, causing the gland’s fluid to build up and thicken into a firm paste. Instead of the normal thin, foul-smelling secretion, an impacted sac contains a thick, pasty brown material that may only squeeze out in a thin ribbon under significant pressure. The backed-up fluid stretches the sac, making it swollen and uncomfortable for the dog. Impaction itself is not an infection – it simply means the gland’s outlet is clogged – but it can set the stage for infection if bacteria begin to proliferate in the stagnant fluid.

Causes: Impactions often occur due to insufficient natural emptying of the anal glands. One common factor is chronic soft stool or diarrhea that fails to press on the sacs effectively. A low-fiber diet can lead to chronically soft feces that don’t “trigger” the glands to empty. Inadequate fiber in the diet is a controllable risk factor for anal sac problems – bulkier, firm stools provide the pressure needed to express the glands during bowel movements. Obesity is another contributor; overweight dogs have extra fat around the anus, which can physically reduce the pressure of passing feces on the glands and weaken the muscles that help express them. Some dogs are also born with narrow anal gland ducts or other anatomical quirks that make them prone to impaction. Any condition causing chronic diarrhea or constipation can precipitate impactions as well.

Symptoms: Dogs with impacted anal glands typically show mild to moderate discomfort. The classic sign is scooting – dragging the rear along the ground – as the dog attempts to relieve the pressure. You’ll often notice excessive licking or chewing at the backside or the base of the tail due to the irritation. In some cases, the dog may be reluctant to defecate or may strain, since the full sacs cause a sensation of pressure. If you gently palpate (feel) the area around the anus (at the 4 and 8 o’clock positions), firm lumps may be noticeable when impaction is present. A fishy or foul odor might linger, and sometimes a small amount of thick brown discharge can leak out. Overall, an impaction tends to be an annoying, uncomfortable issue rather than an immediately painful one – but if not relieved, it can progress to an infection.

What Are Anal Gland Infections?

An anal gland infection (anal sacculitis) develops when bacteria invade the anal sac, leading to active inflammation of the gland lining. In many cases this occurs secondary to an impaction – the clogged material inside the sac creates a breeding ground for bacteria. Once infected, the relatively mild discomfort of a simple impaction turns into a more intense, painful condition. The gland and surrounding tissues become swollen, red, and very tender. Dogs with an anal gland infection often scoot abruptly and incessantly, may cry out or yelp when the area is touched, and frequently guard their rear end (for example, sitting gingerly or refusing to sit at all due to pain). You might observe the dog constantly licking the anal region, and unlike an impaction, an infection can make some dogs feel generally unwell – they may act lethargic or even skip meals because of the discomfort.

A defining sign of infection is abnormal discharge from the anal glands. Instead of the typical brown oily fluid, an infected anal sac may release thick pus or blood-tinged fluid. You might see yellowish or reddish stains where the dog has been sitting, or notice a foul, rotten smell (even worse than the usual “fishy” anal gland odor). Sometimes an infected gland will drain on its own through the duct, leaving sticky residue on the hair under the tail. In other cases, the buildup of pus creates an abscess, a painful pocket of infection next to the anus. An anal gland abscess appears as a swollen, warm, reddish-purple bulge on one side of the anus. Dogs with an abscess are often in significant pain – they may snap if the area is touched and might even limp or have difficulty sitting due to the swelling. If an abscess ruptures, it will leak bloody, greenish-yellow pus from a break in the skin, creating a very foul mess and causing the dog sudden relief followed by ongoing irritation. A ruptured anal abscess is essentially an open wound and must be treated promptly to prevent further complications.

In summary, an infection means the problem has escalated: the presence of pus, blood, severe swelling, or extreme pain differentiates it from a simple impaction. Anal gland infections require medical treatment (flushing and antibiotics) to resolve, and they carry the risk of serious complications if neglected.

How to Tell the Difference

Knowing whether your dog is dealing with an impaction or an infection is critical for deciding on care. Here are some key differences between anal gland impactions and infections:

• Discharge Color & Consistency: A healthy or mildly impacted anal gland typically expresses a clear or brown fluid that is thin or slightly thickened. In contrast, an infected anal gland often produces abnormal fluid – yellow, creamy, or greenish discharge, sometimes streaked with blood. Pus in the anal sac fluid or any bloody exudate is a strong indicator of infection rather than a simple blockage. Also, an impaction’s discharge (if any) tends to be pasty and brown, whereas infection can turn it into a foul-smelling, opaque liquid. If you notice thick pus or blood coming from the anal area, it means an infection is present and not just an impaction.

• Dog’s Behavior and Pain Level: With an impaction, a dog is usually uncomfortable but still acting relatively normal – you’ll see scooting or licking periodically, but the dog may still play, eat, and behave normally aside from the rear-end irritation. The discomfort may cause restlessness, but it isn’t usually overwhelming. In contrast, an infection often causes constant pain and distress. The dog may whine, cry, or shy away when you go near their tail. They might refuse to sit down due to pain, and in some cases may appear depressed or lethargic. You might also notice the dog having a slight fever or not wanting to eat in more severe infections. Essentially, impactions cause annoyance, while infections cause significant pain – if your dog seems much more painful or ill, an infection is likely.

• Urgency of Treatment: An anal sac impaction is uncomfortable but often not an emergency – it should be addressed promptly, but it can often wait for a scheduled vet visit or be relieved by a groomer or veterinarian expression in the short term. In contrast, an anal gland infection is urgent. Infections can progress quickly to abscesses that may rupture and cause tissue damage. If you observe signs of infection (pus, blood, severe swelling), it’s important to see a veterinarian as soon as possible. Left untreated, infections can spread into surrounding tissue and even cause systemic issues. Impactions that are not yet infected can sometimes be managed at home for a short period (with warm compresses or by adding fiber to the diet), but infected glands typically require professional treatment. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and consult your vet – treating an infection early will prevent a minor issue from becoming a serious one.

By noting the color of the fluid, the severity of your dog’s behavior, and the presence of any visible swelling or blood, you can get a good idea of whether it’s likely an impaction or an infection. Always use protective gloves or have a veterinarian check if you attempt to inspect the anal glands at home. If you’re unsure, assume the worst (infection) and get a veterinary exam – it’s better to be safe when it comes to potential infections in such a sensitive area.

Diagnosing Anal Gland Conditions

Diagnosing anal gland impactions vs. infections typically involves a hands-on veterinary examination. Your veterinarian will start by taking note of the dog’s symptoms and history (e.g. frequent scooting, recent diarrhea, etc.), then perform a digital rectal exam to feel the anal sacs from inside the rectum. This allows the vet to assess the size of the sacs and manually express (squeeze out) their contents. The character of the material that comes out gives valuable clues: impacted anal glands often expel thick, brown, pasty material, while infected glands may eject liquid that contains pus or blood. During the exam, the vet will also check for any swelling, heat, or pain around the glands. If one sac is notably enlarged, discolored, or if the dog reacts in pain when it’s touched, that raises suspicion of an infection or abscess.

Often, the veterinarian will take a closer look at the gland’s contents. A small sample of the anal gland fluid can be examined under a microscope. In an infected anal sac, there will typically be bacteria and white blood cells (pus cells) visible. This microscopic exam (cytology) helps confirm that an infection is present. If an abscess is suspected, sometimes the vet will also perform a culture to identify the specific bacteria, though many anal gland infections involve mixed bacteria from the rectum. In the case of firm masses or chronic non-expressible glands, the vet might even recommend imaging (such as ultrasound) to rule out tumors, but this is relatively rare for routine cases.

It’s important to note that not all “scooting” or rear-end discomfort is due to anal glands. A thorough diagnosis includes ruling out other issues that cause similar signs. For example, intestinal parasites (like tapeworms), perianal dermatitis or itching (often from allergies or flea infestations), or even orthopedic pain can lead a dog to drag its butt. If your dog’s scooting isn’t resolved by addressing the anal glands, the veterinarian might investigate these other possibilities. In general, a vet will ensure there’s not another cause behind your dog’s symptoms while checking the glands. (Many pet owners are surprised to learn that dog scooting causes can range from worms to allergies – it’s not always the anal sacs.)

Veterinary Treatment: The approach to treating an anal gland problem depends on the diagnosis. For a straightforward impaction, the primary treatment is to manually express the anal glands to empty out the packed material. This is often done by the vet (or a professional groomer) using a gloved finger internally to gently milk the sacs. If the secretion is very thick or dry, the vet may first infuse a softening solution or saline into the gland to help flush it out. Once emptied, most impactions feel much better; the vet may recommend adding dietary fiber or doing occasional maintenance expressions if the problem tends to recur.

For an anal gland infection or abscess, more intensive treatment is needed. The vet will express the gland as much as possible, then flush the anal sac with an antiseptic solution to wash out bacteria and pus. An antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medication (often a corticosteroid) can be instilled (infused) directly into the gland to treat the infection locally. The dog will also likely be put on a course of oral antibiotics to kill the bacteria from the inside out, and given a pain reliever to reduce inflammation and discomfort. If an abscess is present, the area might be so painful that sedation or even anesthesia is required to properly treat it. The veterinarian will carefully lance (open) and drain the abscess, flush it, and sometimes place a small drain if needed. The dog may go home with an Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent licking, and instructions for warm compresses on the area to promote healing. In a couple of weeks, the tissue will usually heal up well with proper care.

After treating either condition, your vet will discuss preventive care to avoid future episodes. Because anal gland disease can be related to diet, skin health, and other factors, a multi-pronged prevention plan is best (see the next section for natural prevention strategies). If a dog has chronic, recurrent anal gland infections or impactions despite all measures, the vet may even discuss the option of anal sacculectomy, which is surgical removal of the anal glands. This is generally a last resort when quality of life is affected, since any surgery in that area carries risks (like potential fecal incontinence). Fortunately, most dogs do well and won’t need surgery – the combination of proper veterinary care and at-home management usually keeps anal gland problems under control.

Natural Prevention Strategies

Preventing anal gland issues naturally is very achievable with the right diet and lifestyle habits. The goal of prevention is to ensure the dog’s anal glands empty on their own during normal bowel movements and to minimize inflammation that could cause impactions or infections. Here are several natural strategies to help prevent anal gland issues before they start (or keep them from recurring):

1. Feed a High-Fiber Diet: A high-fiber dog diet is one of the most effective ways to prevent anal gland impactions. Fiber adds bulk and form to the stool, creating firm “logs” that press on the anal sacs with each bowel movement, thereby naturally expressing the glands. Many dogs with chronic anal gland problems improve dramatically when switched to a diet with higher fiber content. Aim to incorporate both soluble and insoluble fiber sources. You can add fiber through dog foods that list fiber-rich ingredients, or by supplementing the diet with safe foods like canned pumpkin, sweet potato, carrots, or green beans. Even a couple of spoonfuls of plain pumpkin puree (not pie filling) mixed into meals can firm up stools. There are also specialized high-fiber supplements and treats made for anal gland health. For example, a seaweed-based fiber supplement like StoolRite can be added to your dog’s meals; this natural product uses kelp and other fibers to bulk up stool and support anal gland emptying. Always introduce fiber gradually and provide plenty of fresh water, since fiber absorbs water. Bigger, firmer bowel movements are the goal – you can monitor your dog’s stool and overall stool quality to ensure the diet is on track. (Tip: Stools should be formed and solid, but not hard like pebbles. Too much fiber can cause constipation, so find the balance that produces a “Goldilocks” stool consistency.

2. Incorporate Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Inflammation Control): Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil are natural anti-inflammatories that can benefit dogs prone to anal gland issues. These healthy fats (commonly found in fish oil supplements) help reduce overall inflammation in the body, including in the digestive tract and skin. By controlling inflammation, omega-3s may lessen the anal glands’ tendency to become irritated or swollen. For example, if a dog has food allergies or dermatitis that contribute to anal gland problems, omega-3s can aid in calming those underlying issues. You can add an omega-3 supplement to your dog’s diet in the form of fish oil capsules or liquid (derived from sources like salmon, sardine, or krill oil). Dosage depends on your dog’s size – consult the product guidelines or your vet, as large amounts can add calories. Over time, omega-3s support healthier skin and can even improve stool texture by promoting a healthier gut environment. As a bonus, they contribute to a shiny coat and healthy joints. Reducing any chronic inflammation is key in preventing anal gland flare-ups, and omega-3s are a vet-recommended tool for this purpose.

3. Use Probiotics and Digestive Aids: Probiotic supplements can help maintain your dog’s gastrointestinal health, which in turn helps prevent anal gland issues. A balanced gut microbiome leads to better digestion and more regular, firm stools. Probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (fiber that feeds good bacteria) have been shown to firm up stool consistency and reduce bouts of diarrhea. This is important because episodes of loose stool often precede anal gland impactions (when stools are loose, the glands don’t get expressed normally). By giving your dog a daily probiotic – either a powder, capsule, or a probiotic-enhanced treat – you support healthier digestion. Many dog probiotic products also include added fiber like inulin or pumpkin, offering dual benefits for stool quality. In addition, certain gentle herbal remedies can aid digestion and stool consistency. For instance, slippery elm bark is a natural supplement that can soothe the intestinal tract and add a bit of bulk to stools; it’s often used by holistic veterinarians for dogs with gastrointestinal upset or irritable bowels. Similarly, a pinch of plain psyllium husk (the fiber in Metamucil) can be given to dogs to absorb excess water in the stool and firm it up – just be sure to ask your vet for an appropriate amount. By improving your dog’s gut health with probiotics and fiber, you create optimal conditions for the anal glands to empty on their own regularly.

4. Maintain a Healthy Weight and Exercise Routine: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is not only good for their overall health, it’s specifically beneficial for anal gland function. Overweight dogs are considerably more prone to anal gland impaction. Excess fat around the rump can physically impede the emptying of the glands, and obesity is often associated with weaker muscle tone. The muscles around the anus (pelvic floor and sphincter) help express the glands when a dog poops – in obese dogs those muscles may be weaker and generate less force. Additionally, obese dogs may have more frequent soft stools due to diet or less activity, compounding the issue. The solution is to manage your dog’s weight through proper diet (controlled portions, moderate calories) and plenty of exercise. Regular exercise – daily walks, play sessions, etc. – helps stimulate normal bowel movements and keeps the digestive system moving. Active dogs tend to have more regular, firm stools, whereas sedentary dogs can suffer more constipation or irregularity. Aim to give your dog at least 20–30 minutes of exercise per day (depending on breed and age) to promote gut motility. If your dog is overweight, consult your vet for a safe weight loss plan. Even losing a few pounds can markedly reduce anal gland problems; veterinarians often see chronic impactions resolve after an overweight dog slims down. In short, fit dogs have fewer anal gland issues – so keeping your pup lean and active is a simple, natural preventive strategy. (Plus, it has countless other health benefits!)

5. Practice Good Grooming and Hygiene (Breed-Specific Tips): Don’t overlook the value of basic hygiene and grooming in preventing anal gland troubles. For dogs with very thick or long hair around their rear end, keeping that area trimmed can help the anal gland openings stay clear. Sometimes fecal matter or debris can get caught in long fur and block the ducts, or cause skin irritation that leads to inflammation. Regular bathing (or even just wiping the anal area with a damp cloth after your dog’s bowel movements) can reduce irritation and bacterial buildup. Additionally, check under your dog’s tail periodically – if you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge, address it early before it becomes a bigger issue. Breed matters here: smaller breeds like Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Toy Poodles, Lhasa Apsos, Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Beagles are notorious for anal gland problems. These breeds may benefit from extra diligence: make sure their diet has enough fiber, watch their weight, and consider scheduling preventive vet visits for anal gland expression if they repeatedly have issues. On the other hand, very large breeds have fewer problems on average, but no dog is completely immune. Be attentive to your individual dog’s needs.

   A note on manual anal gland expression: Many dog owners ask if they should be expressing their dog’s glands as a preventive measure. The general consensus among veterinarians is no – do not routinely express the anal glands unless there is a problem. Frequent unnecessary expression can cause irritation or inflammation of the glands and may even lead to scar tissue or dependency on manual emptying. Most dogs naturally express their glands through normal defecation, especially if they are on a healthy diet with firm stools. Groomers commonly include anal gland expression as part of grooming, but you can request them to skip this service if your dog’s glands are healthy and not showing signs of impaction. Let the glands function on their own unless your vet has specifically recommended periodic expressions due to a chronic issue. In cases of dogs with known recurring impactions, your vet can teach you how to carefully express the glands at home when needed, or you can have it done at the clinic every few weeks. Good hygiene – keeping the area clean – combined with the diet, exercise, and supplement measures above, will minimize the need for manual intervention in most dogs.

By following these natural prevention strategies, you’ll address the problem from all angles: improving stool quality, reducing inflammation, and maintaining good hygiene and weight. Many dogs that implement these lifestyle changes experience far fewer anal gland incidents. Ultimately, the old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” holds true – a proactive approach can spare your dog (and you) from the discomfort and mess of anal gland problems.

When Natural Methods Aren’t Enough

Sometimes, even when you’re doing everything right – high-fiber diet, supplements, exercise, etc. – a dog may still experience anal gland issues that require medical intervention. It’s important to recognize when a situation has escalated beyond home remedies. If you observe any of the following, it’s time to consult a veterinarian promptly:

• Signs of an abscess or severe infection: If one side of your dog’s anus suddenly swells into a painful, bulging mass and feels hot to the touch, an abscess has likely formed. Your dog may be in obvious pain, crying, or unable to sit. If that swollen sac bursts, you will see bloody or yellow pus draining from a hole near the anus – this is a ruptured anal gland abscess and constitutes an emergency. No amount of fiber or home care will resolve an abscess; it must be professionally drained and cleaned to heal properly.

• Persistent bleeding or discharge: A bit of tan or brown anal gland fluid on occasion isn’t a cause for panic. But if you notice blood or continual oozing from the anal area, do not delay in seeking vet care. Bloody discharge typically means infection or rupture. Similarly, if a dog continues to scoot and lick excessively despite your initial care efforts, the gland may be infected or another issue may be present.

• Systemic symptoms or extreme pain: Lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, or significant behavior changes suggest that an anal gland problem is affecting your dog’s overall health. For example, a deep infection can make a dog feel ill. Pain beyond the mild discomfort of scooting is also a red flag – if your dog growls or cries when you touch near the tail, or is very restless and unable to get comfortable, something more serious is going on. It’s always better to have a vet evaluate a potentially infected gland than to wait too long.

• Recurrent issues despite prevention: If you have been diligent about diet and natural preventive steps and your dog still suffers impactions or infections frequently, veterinary help is needed to break the cycle. There may be an underlying issue such as allergies contributing to the anal gland flare-ups, or the anatomy of the glands might be problematic. A vet can examine for underlying causes (like checking for food allergies, skin disease, or other colon issues). In some cases of chronic anal gland disease, the vet might recommend regular preventive expressions at the clinic (e.g. monthly gland expressions to keep them empty). In very severe chronic cases – for example, a dog that gets infected abscesses multiple times a year – surgical removal of the anal glands might be considered. Surgery is a last resort due to the risks, but it can dramatically improve quality of life for a dog with unmanageable anal gland disease. Your veterinarian will help weigh that decision.

In summary, listen to your dog’s signals and trust your instincts. If a problem seems beyond “minor” or isn’t improving with natural care, it likely needs medical attention. Quick veterinary intervention for anal gland infections or abscesses will relieve your dog’s pain and prevent complications. After the immediate issue is treated, you can redouble your prevention efforts (with your vet’s guidance) to hopefully avoid future incidents. The combination of smart at-home care and timely veterinary treatment when needed is the best way to keep your dog’s rear-end healthy and happy.

Anal gland impactions and infections are two phases of a common canine problem – recognizing which one you’re dealing with is crucial. An impaction is essentially a clogged gland that causes discomfort but can often be relieved relatively easily, whereas an infection is a more serious escalation with active inflammation, pain, and the risk of abscess formation. By paying attention to the signs (for example, thick brown discharge and scooting point to impaction, while pus, blood, and severe pain point to infection), dog owners can ensure their pet gets appropriate care in time. Most impactions can be prevented or managed through natural methods like a high-fiber diet, maintaining good stool consistency, weight management, and supplements that support digestive health. These measures help the anal glands empty on their own and reduce the chances of infection. However, if an infection does occur, prompt veterinary treatment is essential to prevent complications – this may include flushing the glands and antibiotics to clear up the problem. With a combination of proactive natural care and veterinary support when needed, you can greatly reduce the incidence of anal gland issues in your dog. Keeping an eye on your pup’s bathroom habits and comfort level is key: early intervention and consistent prevention will keep your dog feeling their best, without the telltale scooting and discomfort of anal gland troubles.

FAQs

How can I tell if my dog’s anal glands are infected or just impacted?
Look at the severity of symptoms and any discharge. If your dog is only scooting occasionally and you notice a thick brown fluid when the glands express, it’s likely an impaction. This is uncomfortable but not an emergency. An infected anal gland usually causes more intense pain and continuous scooting or licking. You may see yellow or greenish pus, or blood, leaking from the anal area in the case of infection. The area might be red and swollen, and your dog may yelp or growl if you touch near their tail due to the pain. In short: impaction = thick, brown, no pus, moderate discomfort; infection = possibly bloody/pus discharge, severe pain, swelling. If in doubt, assume infection and see a vet, since an untreated infection can worsen quickly.

Are certain breeds more prone to anal gland issues?
Yes. Anal gland impaction and infection can occur in any dog, but small breeds are far more prone to problems. Toy and small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Miniature Poodles, Lhasa Apsos, Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Beagles tend to have anal gland issues most often. Vets speculate that smaller dogs have narrower anal sac ducts or softer stools, making natural expression more difficult. Large breeds like German Shepherds and Labradors are less commonly affected, though not exempt from anal gland trouble. Aside from breed, overweight dogs of any breed are at higher risk, and dogs with food allergies or chronic skin issues also seem to have more gland problems. Knowing your breed’s tendencies can help – if you have a high-risk breed, be proactive with diet and check-ups to keep their anal glands healthy.

How can I prevent anal gland issues naturally?
The best natural prevention is to keep your dog’s stools firm and regular. That means feeding a high-fiber diet (or adding fiber supplements like pumpkin or StoolRite) so that each bowel movement presses on and empties the anal glands. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and stays at a lean, healthy weight – this helps with stool consistency and muscle tone for gland expression. Adding probiotics to support gut health can also firm up stools and reduce diarrhea episodes that lead to impactions. Supplementing omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) in the diet can decrease inflammation that might contribute to anal gland irritation. Good hygiene is useful too: keep the anal area clean and trim excess hair that could interfere with gland openings. By combining a fiber-rich diet, exercise, and digestive supplements, you naturally address the main causes of anal gland problems. Most dogs on this regimen have far fewer issues with scooting or gland build-up.

Why is my dog scooting on the floor?
Scooting – when a dog drags its rear end along the carpet or grass – is often a sign that the anal glands are full or irritated. It’s basically your dog’s attempt to scratch an itch or relieve pressure in the anal area. The most common cause is indeed anal gland impaction or mild irritation. However, scooting isn’t exclusively caused by anal glands. Other dog scooting causes include intestinal parasite infections (like tapeworms), itchy allergic reactions around the anus (for instance, if the dog has environmental allergies or flea bites), or even mats of fur or feces stuck to the rear. If your dog scoots once in a great while, it may just have an itch. But if it’s happening frequently, check their anal glands and consider a fecal exam for worms. In summary: anal gland issues top the list of causes, but don’t forget to rule out worms or skin problems. If scooting continues, a vet visit can determine the exact cause and solution.

Should I have my dog’s anal glands expressed regularly as a precaution?
In most cases, no. If your dog does not have any anal gland problems (no scooting, no signs of impaction), you do not need to routinely express the glands. Manually expressing them too often can actually lead to irritation or make the glands lazy about emptying on their own. Many veterinarians recommend leaving healthy anal glands alone – they are designed to empty naturally when the dog defecates. Some pet owners request gland expression at every grooming, but unless your vet has identified a chronic issue, this isn’t necessary. You can instead focus on the natural prevention methods (diet, etc.) to keep them empty. That said, if your dog frequently gets impactions, your vet might advise regular expressions (for example, monthly) to prevent buildup. Always have a professional show you how to do it safely before attempting on your own, as improper technique can hurt your dog. So, use routine expression only for dogs with a history of problems, and skip it for dogs with healthy, problem-free glands.

References

1. Collins, B. (2025). Anal sac diseases – Canine Health Information. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

2. Gallagher, A. (2022). Anal Sac Disease in Dogs and Cats. Merck Veterinary Manual.

3. Bascharon, J. (2025). Dog Anal Glands: Common Problems, Treatment, and Prevention. PetMD.

4. Weir, M., Hunter, T., & Ward, E. (n.d.). Anal Sac Disease in Dogs. VCA Animal Hospitals.

5. Hvitman-Graflund, K., Krantz, C., Rybnik, K., Sigurdardottir, O., & Bergvall, K. (2023). A retrospective study of treatment, outcome, recurrence and concurrent diseases in 190 dogs with anal sacculitis. Veterinary Dermatology, 34(6), 576–585.