Anal Glands

Understanding Anal Glands in Dogs

What are anal glands?
Anal glands are small scent glands located under the skin on either side of a dog’s anus—roughly at the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions. These glands secrete a foul-smelling, oily fluid that helps dogs mark territory and recognise one another.

💩 How Do They Work?

Normally, only a small amount of fluid is released when a dog passes faeces, so humans rarely notice the odour.
Dogs may also express the glands:
- While urinating
- When greeting other dogs
- When frightened or startled
In most cases, the glands function without any intervention.

⚠️ When Things Go Wrong

Problems can develop if the glands:

Become blocked
Fail to empty properly
Become infected

An untreated blockage can lead to infection, abscess formation, and eventual rupture.

🔍 Signs of Anal Gland Issues

Scooting (rubbing or dragging the bottom on the ground)
Licking or chewing at the base of the tail or around the anus
Constipation
Pain when passing faeces or when sitting
Foul odour
Swelling or redness around the anus
General pain or discomfort near the anus

🏥 Treatment & Management

If the glands are blocked or infected, they must be expressed (emptied) by a veterinarian or an experienced professional. Methods include:

Applying external pressure to the glands
Inserting a gloved finger into the anus to express them internally

Severe cases may require:

Sedation for pain management
Flushing the glands under general anaesthetic
A course of antibiotics if infection is present

✅ Ongoing Care & Prevention

Monitor your dog for the symptoms listed above, especially if they have a history of anal gland issues.
Include anal gland checks during routine veterinary visits.
Seek veterinary advice promptly if you suspect any problems.