The Role of Diet in Anal Gland Expression and Health in Dogs

If you’ve ever seen your dog scooting on the floor or noticed a foul "fishy" odor, you’re likely dealing with anal gland issues. These small scent glands can become impacted or infected, causing discomfort for your pup. The good news is that diet plays a pivotal role in anal gland expression in dogs. From puppies to seniors, a well-planned diet can help maintain healthy anal glands and prevent problems. In this article, we (a team of a holistic veterinarian, canine nutritionist, veterinary physiologist, professional writer, and SEO strategist) explain the science in warm, approachable terms. We’ll critique kibble-only diets and highlight the benefits of fiber-rich, whole-food nutrition. Let’s explore how diet and anal gland health in dogs are connected and what you can do to keep your dog’s backside comfortable.

What Are Anal Glands?

Anal glands (anal sacs) are two small glands located on either side of a dog’s anus, positioned at roughly 4 and 8 o’clock. They produce a pungent, oily fluid that dogs use for marking territory and communication. In healthy dogs, these glands express (empty) naturally during defecation – the pressure of firm stool presses on the sacs, releasing the secretion. Dogs may also involuntarily express them when stressed or excited.

When anal glands don’t empty properly, they can become impacted (clogged with thick fluid) or inflamed. Impacted glands can progress to anal sacculitis (infection) or even abscesses that rupture painfully. Common signs of anal gland problems include:

• Scooting (dragging the rear end on the ground)

• Licking or biting at the anus or tail base

• A strong fishy or foul odor around the rear

• Swelling, redness, or discharge near the anus

• Straining or discomfort when defecating

Anal gland issues occur in dogs of all sizes, though small breeds seem more prone. Left unchecked, impaction can cause a lot of misery for your dog. Veterinary care (including manual expression or antibiotics) may be required for severe cases. However, many anal gland problems can be managed or prevented through proper diet and nutrition. Next, we’ll see exactly how what your dog eats influences their anal gland function.

How Diet Affects Anal Gland Function

Stool Consistency: Diet directly affects the quality of your dog’s stool, which in turn affects anal gland emptying. Firm, bulky stools press on the anal sacs during bowel movements, naturally expressing the glands. Diets high in fiber produce larger, well-formed stools that help squeeze the glands effectively. Conversely, low-fiber or poor-quality diets can lead to soft stool or diarrhea, meaning not enough pressure to empty the glands. Even a few days of diarrhea can leave the sacs unemptied, raising the risk of impaction. On the other extreme, overly hard or small stools (for example, from an all-meat diet with no fiber) may not provide sufficient contact to express the glands either. Balance is key – we want stools that are firm but not overly dry.

Fiber Content: A low-fiber diet is a known risk factor for anal gland disease. Fiber adds bulk to stool and promotes regular bowel movements. Dogs eating diets deficient in fiber are more likely to develop impactions. In fact, one clinical survey found that 60% of dogs with anal sac problems had been fed an all-meat, zero-fiber diet. It’s no surprise that veterinarians often recommend increasing dietary fiber to help dogs prone to gland issues. Fiber-rich diets produce bulkier feces that can facilitate anal sac compression and emptying. We will discuss specific fiber sources and tips in the next section.

Inflammation and Allergies: Food allergies or intolerances can contribute to anal gland trouble. Dogs with food-allergy dermatitis or general inflammation often have irritated skin around the anus, which can lead to gland impaction or infection. For example, a dog allergic to an ingredient in their food may have chronic soft stools or itchiness that causes scooting. The resulting inflammation can swell the anal sac ducts. In these cases, identifying and removing trigger ingredients (with an elimination diet or hypoallergenic food) can reduce anal gland flare-ups. Additionally, diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil or fatty fish) support a healthy inflammatory response and may soothe swollen anal glands. Omega-3s act as natural anti-inflammatories, promoting overall comfort for dogs with gland issues.

Hydration: Don’t overlook water intake as part of your dog’s diet. Proper hydration is vital for normal stool consistency. If a dog is even mildly dehydrated or eats mostly dry kibble without extra water, the stool can become too hard or small. Adequate moisture in the diet (through fresh foods or added water) helps create stools that are firm yet easier to pass. This eases strain on the anal glands. Providing your dog with constant access to fresh water and even incorporating wet food or broth can maintain optimal stool moisture. In short, a well-hydrated dog is less likely to suffer constipation or impactions that affect the anal sacs.

Weight and Obesity: Diet-related obesity is another factor. Overweight dogs often accumulate excess perianal fat which reduces the pressure on the anal glands during defecation, leading to incomplete emptying. Obesity also contributes to softer stool and inflammation. If your pup is carrying extra pounds, a weight reduction plan (portion control and balanced nutrition) will help their anal gland health. A fit dog will have more effective natural gland expression. We’ll cover weight management and other non-diet tips later, but remember that an appropriate diet, not overfeeding, is crucial to keep your dog at a healthy weight for their glands.

As you can see, diet affects anal glands in multiple ways: stool size, frequency, inflammation levels, and more. Next, we’ll outline the best dietary strategies for healthy anal glands, including specific nutrients and food types that support optimal gland function.

Best Dietary Strategies for Healthy Anal Glands

When it comes to maintaining canine gland health, a proactive diet can make a world of difference. Here are evidence-based nutritional strategies and food choices that help keep your dog’s anal glands functioning optimally:

1. Feed a Fiber-Rich Diet: Fiber is the number one dietary factor for anal gland health. By increasing soluble and insoluble fiber intake, you help produce well-formed stools that “wipe” the glands clean with every bowel movement. Most commercial dog foods have at least 2-5% fiber. Dogs prone to anal gland issues often benefit from even higher fiber (around 5-7% or more on a dry-matter basis), as long as the diet is balanced. High-fiber kibble formulas or adding fiber supplements can achieve this. Consult your vet about the appropriate fiber level for your dog’s age and condition. Excellent fiber sources for dogs include pumpkin, sweet potato, carrots, green beans, apples, oat bran, flaxseed, psyllium husk, and beet pulp. These ingredients provide a mix of fiber types:

• Soluble fiber (e.g. pumpkin, psyllium, apples): Absorbs water and forms a gel in the intestines. This can soften the stool slightly and regulate its passage, helpful if a dog tends toward constipation or diarrhea.

• Insoluble fiber (e.g. wheat bran, cellulose, green beans): Passes through largely intact and adds bulk to the stool. This increases fecal volume and firmness, providing that critical pressure on the anal sacs. Insoluble fiber is particularly important for natural gland expression.

By combining both types, you ensure your dog’s stools are bulky and comfortably formed. A high-fiber diet not only helps express glands but also supports overall digestion and gut health. (For more on maintaining a healthy gut, see our guide on canine digestive health.) Increase fiber gradually to avoid gas or tummy upset, and always provide plenty of water alongside a fiber boost.

2. Choose Whole Foods and Quality Ingredients: Whenever possible, emphasize whole-food nutrition over highly processed diets. Whole foods (fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, and grains) contain natural fibers and nutrients that promote better stool quality and reduce inflammation. Many dog owners find that switching from a low-quality, filler-heavy kibble to a premium or homemade diet leads to firmer, smaller stools and fewer anal gland incidents. Fresh or lightly cooked diets and raw feeding (when done safely and balanced) can be beneficial for gland health. Dogs on raw or fresh diets often have markedly lower stool volume and improved stool firmness due to the absence of fillers and the presence of natural fiber in vegetable ingredients. The moisture content in fresh diets is also higher, which aids hydration. However, it’s crucial to ensure any diet – raw, cooked, or kibble – is nutritionally complete. Work with a veterinarian or certified canine nutritionist to formulate a balanced whole-food diet that supports your dog’s needs. (Interested in raw diets? Read our article on raw feeding for dogs for evidence-based tips.)

3. Include Natural Anti-Inflammatories (Omega-3 Fatty Acids): Supporting your dog’s diet with anti-inflammatory nutrients can improve canine gland health, especially if there’s irritation. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil (EPA and DHA) are well-known for reducing inflammation. Adding a daily fish oil supplement or incorporating oily fish (like salmon or sardines, packed in water with no salt) into your dog’s meals can help soothe anal gland inflammation and support the surrounding tissues. Omega-3s may also help dogs with food allergies or skin inflammation that contribute to anal gland problems. Other natural anti-inflammatory foods/supplements include turmeric (in small, vet-approved doses) and quercetin (sometimes called “nature’s Benadryl” for allergic inflammation). Always introduce supplements gradually and under veterinary guidance. Omega-3 supplements, in particular, should be given in the proper dosage for your dog’s weight.

4. Support the Gut Microbiome with Probiotics: A healthy gut microbiome leads to better digestion and stool consistency, indirectly benefiting anal glands. Probiotics for dogs (beneficial bacteria supplements) can firm up loose stool and reduce inflammation in the GI tract. Certain probiotic strains produce short-chain fatty acids that nourish colon cells and promote regular bowel movements. You can add probiotic supplements (look for those formulated for dogs, often containing fiber plus live cultures) or feed natural sources of probiotics. Plain unsweetened yogurt or kefir (in moderation and if your dog tolerates dairy) and fermented foods like dog-safe sauerkraut are examples, though specialized canine probiotic products may be more effective. Prebiotic fibers (like inulin, chicory root, or bananas) can also feed the good bacteria in the gut. By improving your dog’s digestive health (see our detailed guide on probiotics for dogs), you’ll help ensure their stools stay regular and well-formed, which means anal glands empty more consistently.

5. Ensure Sufficient Moisture and Hydration: Diet isn’t only about solids – it’s also about water. To prevent constipation and help fiber do its job, your dog must stay hydrated. Always provide free access to fresh water. You can boost your dog’s water intake by adding wet food or water to meals, using broth to moisten kibble, or feeding high-moisture foods like cucumbers or watermelon (as treats). Hydration keeps stool from becoming too dry or small. As one holistic veterinarian notes, dry kibble diets without adequate water can contribute to anal gland impaction, since they result in drier feces that may not express the glands fully. If your dog primarily eats kibble, consider supplementing with some canned food or broths to increase moisture. A well-hydrated dog’s bowels move more efficiently – meaning more reliable anal gland emptying and less straining. (Learn more in our post on keeping your dog hydrated.)

In summary, the ideal dog anal gland diet is one that provides ample fiber, quality whole ingredients, anti-inflammatory support, and plenty of water. Such a diet yields firm, bulky stools and reduces the underlying inflammation or weight issues that exacerbate gland problems. In the next section, we’ll highlight common mistakes to avoid – pitfalls that can undermine your best dietary intentions for your dog’s anal glands.

Common Dietary Mistakes That May Worsen Gland Problems

Even well-meaning dog owners can make mistakes in feeding that inadvertently contribute to anal gland issues. To keep your pup’s glands healthy, avoid these dietary missteps:

• Feeding a Low-Fiber Diet: Dogs on ultra-low fiber regimens (such as exclusively meat with no veggies/grains or certain limited-ingredient diets) often produce inadequate stool bulk. Low-fiber food is one of several risk factors for anal gland impaction. Make sure your dog’s diet meets fiber needs for their life stage. If you home-cook, include dog-safe fiber sources (pumpkin, oats, etc.). If you feed commercial food, check the fiber percentage – and consider switching to a higher fiber formula if your dog frequently has gland problems.

• Sudden Diet Changes: Abruptly switching your dog’s food or giving new treats in excess can cause gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea or soft stools), which prevents proper gland expression. For example, giving a lot of rich table scraps one day might lead to loose stool the next. Diarrhea is a common trigger for anal gland flare-ups because the glands aren’t emptied. Always transition diets gradually over 7–10 days, and introduce new foods (including those high in fat) slowly.

• High-Fat or Inappropriate Human Foods: Fatty foods (greasy meats, bacon, etc.) or heavily processed human foods can cause soft stools or inflammation of the gut. This not only upsets your dog’s stomach but also may irritate the anal glands. Spicy or oily leftovers are a no-go for dogs with sensitive glands. Stick to a consistent, balanced dog diet and use only healthy, dog-friendly whole foods as occasional toppers. If you want to reward your dog, opt for lean protein bites or carrot sticks over pizza crust and fried bits.

• Overfeeding and Obesity: Simply put, overfeeding leads to an overweight dog – and overweight dogs often have more anal gland issues. Excess body fat around the anus can physically impede gland expression by cushioning the sacs. Obese dogs may also have larger, softer feces due to suboptimal digestion and lack of exercise. Avoid free-feeding or giving too many high-calorie treats. Feed appropriate portions for your dog’s target weight. If your pup is already chubby, work with your vet on a weight loss plan. Weight management and a high-fiber, lower-calorie diet will ease pressure on the glands and reduce impaction risk.

• Ignoring Food Allergies or Sensitivities: As mentioned, food allergies can manifest as recurrent anal gland infections or itchiness. A common mistake is to treat the gland issue topically (or with expressions) but not address the root cause. If your dog has chronic anal gland impactions alongside other signs like itchy skin or ear infections, talk to your vet about an elimination diet or allergy testing. Identifying and removing an ingredient like chicken, beef, or dairy (common culprits) could dramatically improve your dog’s gland health. Don’t rely on anal gland expressions alone if an underlying diet-related allergy is at play.

• Not Enough Water (especially on Kibble Diets): Many dogs on all-dry diets don’t drink sufficient water to compensate for the lack of moisture in their food. This can lead to constipation or very dry stools. Constipation causes straining and may prevent anal sacs from emptying properly. Make sure your dog drinks regularly. You can flavor their water with a bit of low-sodium broth or offer ice cubes as treats to increase intake. Consider incorporating wet food or water into kibble meals to improve hydration.

By steering clear of these common mistakes, you set the stage for success when implementing a gland-friendly diet. Next, we’ll discuss how to safely transition your dog to a better diet for their anal glands and what signs to monitor during the change.

Transitioning to a Gland-Friendly Diet

Switching your dog to a new diet (or tweaking their current one) for anal gland health should be done thoughtfully. Dogs have sensitive digestive systems, and sudden changes can cause the very upsets we’re trying to avoid. Here are steps to safely transition your dog’s diet to improve anal gland function:

1. Consult and Plan: Start by consulting with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist about the diet changes. They can help you choose the right food formula or additions (fiber supplements, etc.) based on your dog’s age, breed, and health. Make a plan that targets anal gland health – for example, selecting a high-fiber kibble or deciding to add specific whole foods. (You might also find it helpful to read our in-depth guide on formulating a dog diet for gut health as part of your planning.)

2. Introduce New Food Gradually: When changing kibble or wet food, do it over about a week. Mix a small portion of the new diet with your dog’s current food at first (e.g., 25% new to 75% old). Every couple of days, increase the new food and decrease the old food. Gradual transition is crucial to prevent digestive upset. The same goes for adding fiber supplements – start with a pinch of psyllium or a tablespoon of pumpkin, and slowly work up to the recommended amount over several days.

3. Add Fiber and Supplements Slowly: If you are incorporating extra fiber (like canned pumpkin, oat bran, or a product like Glandex) or new supplements (fish oil, probiotics), introduce one at a time. This way, you can monitor your dog’s response. For example, begin with a teaspoon of pumpkin mixed into meals and increase to a tablespoon over a week. Too much fiber too fast can cause gas or loose stool, so observe your dog’s stool quality daily. The goal is a formed, bulky stool – adjust fiber up or down if stools become too soft or overly firm.

4. Monitor Stool and Gland Symptoms: As you transition, keep an eye on what’s happening behind the scenes (literally!). Check your dog’s stool at least once a day for consistency – you’re looking for that optimal firm “log” that is easy to pick up. If you were dealing with frequent scooting or leaking before, see if those issues improve. Many owners find that within a few weeks of a diet change, their dog’s scooting significantly decreases. However, every dog is different. If you notice diarrhea, constipation, excessive gas, or continued anal gland symptoms during the transition, pause and consult your vet. They may suggest adjusting the diet plan or adding a digestive aid.

5. Be Patient and Consistent: Give the new diet time to take effect. It can take several weeks for a dog’s digestive system and anal glands to adapt and show improvement. Stick to the diet consistently – avoid giving occasional fatty treats or reverting to old food on the weekends, as this can set back progress. Maintain a routine feeding schedule and exercise regimen (daily walks help stimulate regular bowel movements). Consistency will help you accurately gauge if the diet change is helping. Keep notes about your dog’s stools and gland behavior. If after 6-8 weeks you see little to no improvement, follow up with your vet for next steps.

Transitioning diets is an investment in your dog’s health. By doing it carefully, you maximize the benefits (firmer stools, happier glands) while minimizing any tummy troubles. Most dogs adjust well, especially when they end up feeling better on the new diet. Remember, always introduce changes gradually and pay attention to your dog’s signals.

When Diet Alone Isn’t Enough

Dietary management greatly aids most dogs with anal gland issues, but it’s not a 100% cure-all in every situation. Some dogs, despite a perfect diet, may continue to have gland problems due to other factors. Here’s when to seek additional help and what else you can do:

• Persistent or Severe Anal Gland Issues: If your dog is on a high-fiber, balanced diet and at a healthy weight but still requires frequent manual gland expressions or gets infections, it’s time to involve your veterinarian again. There could be underlying issues such as anatomical abnormalities (narrow ducts), chronic skin allergies, or other medical conditions at play. A vet can examine your dog’s anal sacs and determine if something beyond diet is needed. They might recommend regular in-office expressions or further diagnostics to check for infections or abscesses.

• Anal Gland Expression and Hygiene: Some dogs simply have overactive anal glands or poor emptying mechanics. In these cases, routine manual expression by a professional (vet or groomer) can provide relief. You can learn to do it at home only if instructed by your vet – improper technique can cause injury. Additionally, keep the anal area clean. Using canine-safe wipes after your dog’s bowel movements can reduce irritation and infection risk if they have partial discharges. (There are even specialized anal gland wipes with deodorizing and soothing ingredients.) While we prefer the glands empty naturally, occasionally dogs need a little extra help despite diet improvements.

• Exercise and Lifestyle: Ensure your dog gets regular exercise and isn’t sedentary. Physical activity helps with stool regularity and muscle tone, including the muscles that assist anal gland expression. A few brisk walks or play sessions a day can complement a high-fiber diet in keeping the digestive system moving. Exercise also fights obesity, compounding the benefits for the anal glands.

• Medical Interventions: In recurrent cases where diet, weight loss, and routine expressions don’t prevent impactions, veterinary intervention may go further. Your vet might flush the anal sacs or infuse medications if infection is present. For dogs with continuous severe problems, an anal sacculectomy (surgical removal of the anal glands) is a last-resort option. This permanently eliminates the glands, but it’s only considered in extreme cases because of surgical risks. Always explore all nutritional and medical management avenues first.

• Supplements and Additional Therapies: Sometimes adding specific supplements can tip the scales in your dog’s favor. We discussed fiber, omega-3s, and probiotics, which many dogs benefit from. There are also commercial anal gland support supplements that combine fiber, probiotics, and anti-inflammatories in one chew (for example, products like Glandex contain pumpkin seed, digestive enzymes, and omega fatty acids). Results vary, but some owners report these help between diet and vet visits. Additionally, a warm compress applied to the area or a gentle anal gland massage (as guided by a vet) may help express stubborn glands. These are supplementary measures – diet remains the foundation, with vet care as needed.

In summary, diet is a powerful tool for managing anal gland health, but it works best as part of a holistic approach. By feeding a gland-friendly diet, keeping your dog fit, and partnering with your vet, you address the issue from all angles. Most dogs will experience significant relief and fewer “butt scooting” episodes. For the few that don’t, your vet can advise on other solutions so your canine companion can stay comfortable and healthy.

Anal gland issues are unpleasant for both dogs and owners – but by focusing on your dog’s diet and anal gland health, you can often prevent these problems before they start. The key is to feed a balanced, high-fiber diet that produces firm, bulky stools to naturally express the glands. Whole foods, adequate hydration, and nutrients like omega-3s and probiotics further support healthy gland function. We’ve seen that factors like low-fiber kibble, obesity, and food allergies can all contribute to anal gland troubles. With informed dietary choices and a gradual transition plan, you can reduce scooting, licking, and impactions in dogs at all life stages. Remember, every dog is unique – what works for one might need tweaking for another. Always consult your veterinarian when making significant diet changes. By combining good nutrition with regular vet care and exercise, you’ll be well on your way to solving those smelly anal gland woes and helping your dog live their most comfortable, happy life.

FAQs

Can diet really affect my dog’s anal glands?
Absolutely. Diet is one of the biggest influencers of anal gland health. The right diet creates firm, sizable stools that press on and empty the anal glands during defecation. High-fiber diets, in particular, are widely recommended to prevent anal gland impaction. On the other hand, a poor diet (low fiber, lots of fillers, or causing diarrhea) can lead to insufficient gland expression and impactions. Many dog owners see a big improvement in scooting and gland odors after switching to a more fiber-rich, whole-food diet. Think of food as a preventive medicine for your dog’s gland issues.

What foods help dogs express their anal glands naturally?
Fiber-rich foods are the best for natural anal gland expression. They add bulk to stool, which helps squeeze the glands. Some top choices include pumpkin (plain canned pumpkin puree), sweet potatoes, carrots, green beans, apples (without seeds), brown rice, oats, and flaxseed. These foods are safe for most dogs and can be mixed into regular meals. Start with small amounts (like a spoonful of pumpkin) and increase gradually. In addition, foods containing omega-3 fatty acids like sardines or salmon can reduce gland inflammation. Always introduce new foods slowly and ensure they fit into a balanced diet. For convenience, you can also use high-fiber dog treats or supplements made for gland health – but simple natural foods often work wonders.

Is a raw diet better for dogs with anal gland issues?
A properly formulated raw diet can help some dogs with anal gland problems, but it’s not a guaranteed fix for all. Advocates of raw feeding point out that raw diets (which are grain-free and high in protein) often result in smaller, firmer stools. The inclusion of raw bone or fiber from vegetables can bulk up the stool, helping glands empty. Many raw-fed dogs do have excellent stool quality and minimal anal gland incidents. However, balance is crucial. An all-meat raw diet without fiber sources can cause very small or loose stools and even contribute to impaction. If you try raw feeding, work with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the diet includes appropriate fiber (vegetables, ground bone, etc.) and is nutritionally complete. Raw diets also carry food safety considerations. There’s no one-size-fits-all – some dogs thrive on raw, while others do well on high-fiber kibble. The best diet is one that suits your individual dog’s digestive system and keeps those glands squeezing out regularly. (For more info, see our article on raw diets for dogs.)

How much fiber does my dog need for healthy anal glands?
The ideal fiber amount can vary, but most healthy adult dogs do well with about 2.5% to 5% fiber in their diet (dry matter basis). Dogs with anal gland issues often benefit from the higher end of that range, or even a bit above 5%, depending on their tolerance. Some “high-fiber” therapeutic dog foods contain up to 8-10% fiber. It’s important to increase fiber gradually and monitor stool. You want stools that are formed and bulky, but not diarrhea. If your dog’s current food is low in fiber (say 2% fiber) and they have gland problems, bumping up to a 5-7% fiber content diet can be very helpful. This might be achieved by switching foods or simply adding fiber-rich toppers (pumpkin, veggies) to each meal. Always ensure your dog has plenty of water, since fiber works best with adequate hydration. And remember, more fiber isn’t always better if overdone – find the “sweet spot” where your dog’s poop is Goldilocks perfect (not too soft, not too hard).

My dog’s glands still smell and he’s still scooting after I improved his diet. What now?
If you’ve given the diet changes a fair trial (say 4-8 weeks) and your dog is still having anal gland issues, it’s time to loop back with the veterinarian. There may be factors other than diet involved. Your vet can check for anal gland infections, abscesses, or anatomical issues that might require medical treatment. They might express the glands to provide relief and see if the fluid is abnormal (indicating infection). In some cases, dogs benefit from routine gland expressions even with a good diet – every dog is different. The vet might also discuss things like allergies (which could require a hypoallergenic diet or medication) or recommend adding a fiber supplement if you haven’t already. Don’t be discouraged; diet is still very beneficial, but some dogs need a multi-pronged approach. With vet guidance, you might explore anal gland supplements, weight loss if needed, or in chronic cases, consider whether a minor procedure is warranted. Keep working closely with your vet and tweaking the plan. Most dogs do find relief with the right combination of diet and care, so hang in there – your furry friend will thank you when his bum feels better!

References

1. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (2025). Anal sac diseases – risk factors and management. Retrieved from Cornell Riney Canine Health Center site.

2. Merck Veterinary Manual. (n.d.). Disorders of the Rectum and Anus in Dogs – Anal Sac Disease. (Recommendation: “Supplemental fiber may be recommended to increase fecal bulk…”).

3. Bascharon, J. (2023). Dog Anal Glands: Common Problems, Treatment, and Prevention. PetMD. (Highlights the role of fiber, omega-3s, and weight management in anal gland health).

4. Corbee, R. J., et al. (2022). A Cross-Sectional Study on Canine and Feline Anal Sac Disease. Animals (Basel), 12(1), 95. doi:10.3390/ani12010095. (Noted that high-fiber diets are recommended for preventing anal sac disease).

5. Beynen, A. C. (2019). Diet and anal-sac impaction in dogs. Dier-en-Arts, 12, 312-313. (Reported 60% of dogs with anal sac problems were on an all-meat, zero-fiber diet).

6. Cope, M. (2023). High-Fiber Dog Food and Anal Glands. Whole Dog Journal. (Provides an overview of fiber types and their importance for anal gland expression).