How do I know if my dog needs its glands expressed?

If your dog is producing a foul-smelling odor, chances are they need their glands expressed. It’s important to recognize when your pup needs this procedure, as it can help prevent other health issues. Knowing what signs to look for and how to express your dog’s glands can help keep your pup healthy and happy. This article will provide an overview of what you need to know about when and how to express your dog’s glands.

What are Anal Glands?

Anal glands, also known as anal sacs, are two small glands located near the anus of many mammals, including dogs. The glands are filled with a strong-smelling fluid that is released when the dog defecates. They are used by the dog to mark its territory and identify itself to other dogs.

Why Do Dogs Need Their Glands Expressed?

When a dog’s anal glands are not expressed regularly, the fluid can become thick and clog the glands. This can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, such as irritation and itching around the anus, scooting, and painful defecation. In some cases, the glands can become infected, which can lead to abscesses.

Signs That Your Dog Needs Its Glands Expressed

If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to have your dog’s anal glands expressed:

Scooting

If you notice your dog dragging its bottom across the floor, it may be trying to relieve the discomfort caused by full anal glands.

Excessive Licking of the Anal Area

If your dog is excessively licking the area around its anus, it may be a sign that the anal glands are full and need to be expressed.

Bad Odor

Anal gland fluid has a strong, unpleasant odor. If you notice a bad odor coming from your dog, it may be a sign that the anal glands need to be expressed.

Swelling or Redness of the Anal Area

If the anal glands become impacted or infected, the area around the anus may become swollen and red. This is a sign that the anal glands need to be expressed and the infection treated.

Who Should Express My Dog’s Glands?

It is important that your dog’s anal glands are expressed by a qualified professional, such as a veterinarian or a groomer. An experienced professional will be able to safely and effectively express the glands, and will also be able to identify any underlying conditions that may need to be addressed.

Home Expression of Anal Glands

If your dog’s anal glands need to be expressed regularly, your veterinarian may suggest that you learn to do it at home. This is typically done with the help of a specially designed anal gland expression tool. However, it is important to note that anal gland expression can be a difficult and messy process, and should only be done with the guidance of a veterinarian. It is also important to note that home expression should only be done if the glands are not infected, as this can lead to further complications.

### Common Myths about Dog Anal Gland Expression

1. Myth: All dogs need their anal glands expressed.
Fact: Most dogs do not need their anal glands expressed. If your dog is scooting or licking their anal area excessively, it may be a sign that their anal glands need expressing.

2. Myth: Expressing anal glands is painful for dogs.
Fact: Expressing anal glands is not painful for dogs. In some cases, it may be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful.

3. Myth: Anal gland expression should be done regularly.
Fact: Anal gland expression should only be done when necessary. Some dogs may never need their glands expressed, while others may need it done every few months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all dogs need their glands expressed?

No, not all dogs need their glands expressed. Some breeds, such as poodles, cocker spaniels, and schnauzers, are more prone to needing their glands expressed than other breeds.

How do I know if my dog needs its glands expressed?

If your dog is scooting on the floor, licking or biting at its bottom, or having frequent or overly soft bowel movements then it may be time to get your dog’s glands expressed. Another indication that your dog needs their glands expressed is if there is a foul odor coming from the area. If you notice any of these signs, you should take your pup to the vet for an examination.

Conclusion

Anal glands are two small glands located near the anus of mammals, including dogs. This fluid-filled sacs are used to mark territory and identify the dog to others. When not expressed regularly, the fluid can become thick and clog the glands, leading to discomfort and irritation. Signs that your dog needs its glands expressed include scooting, excessive licking, bad odor, and swelling or redness of the anus. It is important to have a qualified professional, such as a veterinarian or groomer, express the glands, and home expression should only be done with the guidance of a vet.