Taking care of your dog’s anal glands

As a dog owner chances are you’ve caught your pooch dragging their bottom across the carpet or grass from time to time. This classy little move is known as scooting.

There are many reasons why dogs do this, but the most common is to relieve the discomfort of irritated anal glands.

Role of anal glands

The dog has two anal glands either side of their bottom which empty a small amount of very pungent material onto each stool as it passes.

The smell is unique to each dog and helps mark their territory, basically leaving behind personal information for the next dog to sniff and decipher.

Sometimes these glands don’t empty effectively and if scooting doesn’t resolve the problem, a nasty abscess can develop.

Causes of anal gland issues

There are many causes for ineffective emptying including anatomical variation, abnormal stools, skin issues and previous anal gland trauma.

A less common cause for scooting is bottom irritation from Intestinal worms.

If you do notice your dog persistently scooting or even licking the area, take them to the vet to identify the cause.

Treatment

Your vet can gently express the anal glands if they are becoming impacted and prevent an abscess forming.

Whilst manual expression is required in many dogs on a regular basis, it is important that it’s performed under the supervision of a veterinarian as the sacs are delicate and injure easily when squeezed.

Your vet will also be able to detect the presence of anal gland tumours.

If your dog is experiencing recurrent and frequent anal gland impaction, it’s important to discuss underlying causes and possible solutions with your vet. Diet changes, supplements, fibre and probiotics may be suggested.

In some cases (and I have had a dog that required this) surgery is necessary to remove the glands.

And ensure your dog’s parasite protection is up to date to help rule out intestinal worms as the cause of the scooting.

Nexgard SPECTRA provides your dog with the most complete parasite protection available against external and internal parasites, all in one tasty monthly chew.

Dr Melissa Meehan is a highly experienced and respected veterinary surgeon with over 18 years experience. Dr Melissa obtained her Members in Small Animal Medicine through examination in 2008 and now runs her own veterinary ophthalmology service.