Anal gland problems in dogs are a common cause of discomfort around the rear end. Owners may first notice a dog scooting across the floor or licking beneath the tail.
These behaviors may look minor, but they can signal pain or irritation. Some anal gland problems can also lead to infection or an abscess if they become severe.
What Are a Dog’s Anal Glands?
Dogs have two small anal sacs located beside the anus. These sacs hold a strong-smelling fluid.
Normally, pressure during a bowel movement helps release a small amount of this fluid. Problems can develop when the sacs do not empty properly.
Anal gland problems in dogs can include impaction, inflammation, infection, and abscesses. Veterinarians often use the term anal sac disease to describe these conditions.
Signs of Anal Gland Problems in Dogs
Dog scooting is one of the best-known signs of anal gland discomfort. A dog may drag its rear end across carpet, grass, or another surface.
However, scooting is not the only warning sign.
Owners may also notice:
- Licking or biting near the rear end
- A strong or unusual odor
- Trouble sitting comfortably
- Pain during bowel movements
- Straining to pass stool
- Swelling beside the anus
- Blood or discharge near the anus
- Sudden sensitivity around the tail
Dogs with painful impacted anal glands may resist having the area touched. Even a normally gentle dog may react when the area is sore.
What Causes Impacted Anal Glands?
Anal sacs can become impacted when the fluid inside does not empty as it should. The material may become thicker, which can make normal drainage more difficult.
Small dogs develop impaction and inflammation more often than large or giant breeds. However, any dog can develop anal gland problems in dogs.
Changes in stool quality may also affect how well the sacs empty. In some cases, inflammation around the ducts can interfere with drainage.
A veterinarian can help determine whether the problem is simple impaction or something more serious.
Why Dogs Scoot
Although dog scooting often makes owners think about anal glands, several problems can cause irritation around the rear end.
Parasites, skin irritation, allergies, and other conditions may cause similar behavior.
All Pets Medical’s article on signs of parasites in dogs explains other symptoms that may appear with intestinal parasites.
Dogs with itchy skin may also lick or chew several areas of the body. Owners can review why dogs lick so much for more information about common causes of excessive licking.
Because several problems can look alike, repeated scooting deserves a veterinary exam.
When Anal Sac Disease Becomes More Serious
Untreated anal sac disease can sometimes progress from impaction to infection.
An infected anal sac may become swollen and painful. In severe cases, an abscess can form. The abscess may eventually rupture through the skin beside the anus.
Owners may notice redness, swelling, blood, pus, or a small open wound.
These signs require veterinary care. Trying to squeeze a painful or infected gland at home can cause more discomfort and may worsen the problem.
How Veterinarians Treat Anal Gland Problems
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition.
A veterinarian may gently empty impacted anal glands. If the material is too thick, additional treatment may be needed.
Infected or inflamed sacs may require cleaning and medication. Abscesses can need more intensive care. Severe or repeated cases sometimes require additional testing or surgery.
The veterinarian may also look for health problems that could be contributing to repeated episodes.
Owners should follow all home-care instructions and return for rechecks when recommended.
Should Anal Glands Be Expressed Routinely?
Not every dog needs routine anal gland expression. Healthy anal sacs often empty naturally during bowel movements.
Unnecessary or frequent manipulation may irritate the area in some dogs. Owners should ask their veterinarian whether regular expression is appropriate for their individual dog.
Dogs with repeated anal gland problems in dogs may need a more specific care plan. That plan could include changes in diet, stool quality, weight management, or treatment of another health problem.
Regular wellness exams for dogs and cats also give owners a chance to discuss recurring scooting or rear-end discomfort.
Helping Dogs Stay Comfortable
Owners should not ignore repeated dog scooting, constant licking, swelling, or pain around the anus. These signs may point to impacted anal glands or another condition that needs treatment.
Early veterinary care can relieve discomfort and help prevent an infection from getting worse.
Watching a dog’s bowel habits, skin health, and behavior can also help owners notice changes sooner. When anal gland problems in dogs keep returning, a veterinarian can help find the cause and create a safer long-term plan.
