Scoot'n 'n boot'n: What are Anal Glands?
- Tim Marshall
- Jul 24
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 28
As professional groomers, we have the privilege of spending time with dogs of all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Through regular grooming appointments, we become familiar with each pet’s unique quirks and needs—sometimes spotting health concerns before their owners do. From tangled coats and irritated skin to overgrown nails and ear issues, we see a wide range of conditions on a daily basis. However, there’s one particularly important aspect of canine health that often goes unmentioned or unnoticed: the anal glands.
Despite their significance, discussions about anal glands can make even seasoned pet owners uncomfortable or confused. Many people aren't aware of what these glands do or the discomfort their pets might endure when something goes wrong. As groomers, we’re in a unique position to advocate for every dog's well-being, helping to bring attention to this often overlooked topic. By opening up the conversation, we hope to empower both dog owners and fellow pet professionals to prioritise routine checks and informed care—making a big difference in every dog's comfort and long-term health.
The Vital Role of Anal Glands in Dogs: History, Health, and Care
Understanding Anal Glands: What Are They?
Anal glands, or anal sacs, are two small scent-sacs located just beneath the skin on either side of a dog’s anus, roughly at the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions. These glands produce a strong-smelling, oily fluid unique to each dog. In healthy canines, this fluid is naturally expelled when firm stool passes through the anus during defecation—this is the reason dogs so often sniff each other’s rears; the scent left behind is a canine calling card, facilitating communication and territory marking[1][2][3].
The glands’ oily secretion serves both physiological and social roles:
Scent marking for territory and identification
Lubrication to ease the passage of stool
Pheromone signalling for social interactions with other animals
While the glands are usually only noticed when problems arise, they are a foundational part of a dog’s anatomy[2][3].
The Ancestral Perspective: From Wolves to Modern Dogs
The presence of anal glands isn’t unique to our pet dogs; they are inherited from their wild ancestors—the wolves. Research has shown that wolves also possess anal sacs, which play a role in communication and territorial marking within packs. While the basic structure and function of these glands have remained largely unchanged through domestication, shifts in lifestyle, diet, and anatomy mean domestic dogs are more prone to gland problems than their wild relatives[3].
Common Problems and Their Impact
Signs of Anal Gland Issues
Anal gland problems are common and can cause significant discomfort for dogs. Look out for:
Scooting—dragging the bottom along the floor
Excessive licking or biting near the anus
Straining or apparent pain while defecating
Swelling, redness, or discharge near the anus
Persistent foul (“fishy”) odor
Behavioural changes: whimpering, reluctance to sit, withdrawal
These symptoms typically point to impaction, infection, abscesses, or tumours[1][4][2][3].
Impact on Your Dog
When anal glands don’t function properly, fluid can build up and thicken, leading to:
Impaction: Glands enlarge, causing irritation and pain
Infection: Bacteria may invade, resulting in swelling, redness, and pus
Abscess or rupture: Can result in open wounds and significant pain
Tumours: In rare cases, tumorous growths may appear
Chronic discomfort: Affects behaviour and overall well-being
Small breeds are especially susceptible, but all dogs are at risk[1][2].
Why Are Problems So Common Today?
Modern factors increasing anal gland issues include:
Diet: Highly processed, dry foods often cause softer stools that don’t express glands naturally[5][6]
Genetics and anatomy: Some breeds (especially small ones) have narrower gland openings
Skin conditions or allergies: Increase inflammation risk[1]
Reduced activity and lifestyle changes
Soft stools are a frequent cause of gland impaction—the less pressure from stool, the less likely the glands are to be emptied[1][5][6].
Prevention: The Benefits of Regular Check-Ups
Regular veterinary check-ups are the best defence against painful, expensive complications. Experts and veterinarians—including Dr. Karen Becker—stress the importance of early recognition and tailored care[7][6][8]. While not every dog requires routine gland expression, prompt attention to issues and regular checks prevent minor conditions from turning into emergencies.
Our local veterinarian, Dr. Sandy Ypelaan of The Visiting Vet, strongly recommends that dogs with recurring anal gland problems receive regular check-ups to stay ahead of potential health issues. Dr. Ypelaan provides guidance on prevention, including the use of fibre-rich supplements and specialised diets to help maintain healthy gland function and firmer stools, which naturally promote gland expression [1][3]. She also offers sound advice tailored to each dog’s needs, emphasising early intervention, dietary adjustments, and appropriate supplement choices as important strategies in keeping your dog comfortable and reducing the risk of further complications. [1][3]
Benefits of Routine Gland Health Care
Early disease detection and treatment
Prevention of abscesses and need for surgery
Increased comfort and reduced risk of chronic problems
Expert guidance from a groomer or vet ensures safe care[1][8]
For higher-risk dogs or those with history of issues, a vet may recommend more regular manual gland expression[1][9]. Other dogs may simply need periodic checks.
The Risks of Ignoring Anal Gland Problems
Neglecting anal gland issues greatly raises the risk of complications:
In severe or untreated cases, surgical removal of the glands might be necessary. This is considered a last-resort procedure due to its significant risks, such as fecal incontinence. Dr. Karen Becker describes it as a "salvage" procedure, which is best avoided through timely intervention and continuous health management[10][8].
What Pet Owners Should Do
Watch for warning signs like scooting or excessive licking
Feed a high-fibre, less-processed diet to support natural gland expression
Schedule regular check-ups, especially for smaller or high-risk breeds
Seek veterinary advice promptly if symptoms arise[1][6][11]
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