Dog Anal Gland Expression

This guide is for informational purposes. Consult your veterinarian if your dog shows signs of anal gland problems.

What Are Dog Anal Glands?

Dogs have two anal sacs — small pouches located just inside the anus, one on each side. These sacs are lined with sweat glands that produce a distinctive, pungent oily secretion used for scent marking and individual identification. When dogs meet and sniff each other’s rear ends, they are exchanging this chemical information.

In healthy dogs, the anal sacs empty automatically during normal bowel movements — the pressure of passing firm stool causes the sacs to express naturally. Problems arise when stools are too soft, when the sac openings become blocked, or when glands over-produce secretion. Dogs that are overweight, have allergies, or frequently have soft stools are particularly prone to anal gland issues.

Signs Your Dog Needs Anal Gland Expression

• Scooting: Dragging the rear end along the floor is the most recognized sign — the dog is trying to relieve pressure or discomfort
• Excessive licking or biting at the base of the tail
• Foul fishy or metallic odor from the rear area, distinct from normal body odor
• Swelling or redness visible around the anus
• Straining to defecate or obvious discomfort when sitting
• Brown or yellowish discharge on bedding or furniture
• Chasing tail or sudden attention to the rear end

If you notice swelling, pain, or visible discharge, this may indicate an abscess and requires immediate veterinary attention.

External vs Internal Expression

Source: American Animal Hospital Association veterinary care guidelines

Many groomers offer external anal gland expression as part of a grooming service. For recurring problems or impacted sacs, always have a veterinarian perform internal expression. Find professional dog grooming services near you that include anal gland expression.

How Often Should Anal Glands Be Expressed?

There is no universal schedule — expression frequency depends on the individual dog. Guidelines:

• Most dogs: Never need manual expression — healthy, firm stools naturally empty the glands with every bowel movement
• Dogs prone to issues: Every 4–8 weeks, typically aligned with grooming appointments
• Dogs with chronic problems: May need expression every 2–4 weeks, along with dietary changes (high-fiber diet to firm stools)
• After anal gland abscess/rupture: More frequent veterinary monitoring and expression

Over-expression can actually cause irritation and inflammation, creating a dependency cycle. Only express when signs of fullness or discomfort are present, or when recommended by your vet or groomer. Diet changes to produce firmer stools are often more effective long-term than frequent manual expression. See our guide on raw dog food and high-fiber diet options for anal gland support.

Anal Gland Complications

• Impaction: Hardened, thick secretion blocks the duct — dog shows discomfort, scooting, straining. Treated with internal expression, sometimes irrigation
• Infection: Bacterial infection causing swelling, pain, and discharge. Requires antibiotics and veterinary treatment
• Abscess: Severe infection causing a painful swollen lump that may rupture through the skin, creating an open wound. Emergency veterinary care required — see our guide on anal gland abscess treatment
• Anal sac adenocarcinoma: Cancer of the anal glands, more common in older dogs. Signs include a firm lump, straining, and sometimes hind-end weakness. Requires prompt veterinary diagnosis

If your dog’s anal area looks swollen, red, or has a visible wound or discharge, contact your veterinary clinic immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions