No, most dogs don't need their anal glands manually expressed because they usually empty naturally during defecation, but some dogs struggle, leading to discomfort, impaction, infection, or abscesses, requiring veterinary help. You should only get them expressed if your dog shows signs like scooting, excessive licking, or straining, as routine expression can cause irritation and damage, notes this article from The Spruce Pets and another from Jim's Dog Wash.
Glands that go unexpressed can become impacted and infected. Over time, they can burst through the skin in the form of painful open sores, or abscesses. These dogs may require antibiotics or surgery to drain the infection. Fortunately, proactive care can prevent anal gland issues from becoming serious medical events.
Dogs that may be more at risk of anal gland conditions include:
If your dog's anal gland expression isn't something you feel comfortable doing, you may opt to call an animal care professional like a dog groomer or a veterinarian to perform the service. Dog grooming costs can land somewhere between $30 and $90, depending on the breed and size of your dog, and may include expression.
While some dogs may never require manual expression, others might need help every few weeks. Signs that your dog's anal glands need attention include scooting, excessive licking, or a fishy odor.
While it may not be comfortable, it should not cause your dog pain. A dog who reacts painfully to anal gland expression may have an impacted or infected anal sac. Stop and speak with a veterinarian.
Fibre is your dog's best friend when supporting healthy digestion, bowel function and poops. High fibre foods such as sweet potato, apple and broccoli create firm poops which will naturally express the anal glands.
The fluid inside these sacs has a very potent smell that dogs can use to mark territory and communicate personal information to other dogs. Most dog owners will never need to think about their dog's anal glands. If everything is working well, the tiny traces of fluid are passed naturally when your dog poops.
It's not pretty, and it definitely doesn't smell good, but having your vet or vet tech express the glands is the best way to ensure it's done properly, and without too much force. Almost all groomers will express a dogs anal glands during the grooming process.
Normal fluid should be brown in color, with a thin consistency and a strong odor. Thick, chunky or discolored (green, yellow, grey) fluid is abnormal and indicates that a problem could be present. It takes practice to be able to express the anal glands so do not be discouraged!
Infection with severe pain and swelling can develop if the gland is blocked for a long time without the ability to release the built-up saliva. If persistent gland swelling is left untreated, the glands may develop a severe infection or abscess.
One of the most common reasons your dog might smell like fish is due to anal gland secretions. Other potential causes include dental disease, urinary tract infections (UTIs), vaginal and other female-related infections, skin conditions such as yeast infections, or the type of food they eat.
What are the symptoms of blocked anal glands in dogs?
The #1 rule for grooming a dog is to prioritize the dog's safety and comfort, which means being gentle, patient, using appropriate tools, and creating a positive experience to build trust and prevent injuries or fear, as emphasized by professionals like Clipit Grooming, QC Pet Studies, and The Pets Workshop. This involves careful handling of tools like scissors and clippers, taking breaks, and recognizing when a dog has had enough.
Dogs can typically express their anal glands themselves, but if they can't, it can mean that the smelly fluid inside is built up to the point of discomfort. Aside from the anal glands, anal licking can also be caused from issues in and around your dog's butt.
Keep them at a healthy weight: Overweight dogs are more prone to anal gland problems due to weak muscles in the anal area. Increase fibre intake: Loose stools often don't press on anal glands hard enough to empty them.
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting natural gland expression. Dogs with sedentary lifestyles may be more prone to gland issues because their bodies are not receiving enough movement to aid digestion and natural gland emptying.
Many dogs never require the manual expression of their anal glands. Others will need their glands emptied every few weeks. Some dogs' glands (anal sacs) can become full, impacted, blocked, or infected.
Manually expressing your pet dog's anal glands may be the best solution when they are full and uncomfortable. This has to be done to prevent infection, inflammation and abscesses over time. Expressing anal glands can provide immediate relief from discomfort, but it may not be easy if you try doing it at home.
Dogs vary in their production of anal gland secretion, so some effected dogs only need this done every few months, particularly if the glands occasionally express on their own, whereas other dog's glands may fill up in just a week or two.
Not sure what my vet charges for anal gland stuff but $50 doesn't feel outrageous. Does your dog often need their anal glands expressed? A high fiber diet may help avoid that and save you some money in the long run.
The cells lining these glands produce an oily secretion with a distinct rotten fishy, metallic smell. Think of it as your pet's signature perfume scent and is the reason why your pet is so fascinated by poop and other dog's bum!
Signs of anal sac impaction can include:
Both male and female dogs have anal glands to express the fluid buildup. But sometimes the fluid is not released naturally when the muscles of the anal sphincter contract during a bowel movement. This is when the vet may need to check and see what's taking place.