Taking care of your dog involves more than just feeding them and taking them for walks. One often overlooked aspect of canine care is the expression of their anal glands. It may seem like a daunting task, but with a little know-how, it’s something you can do at home.
Why Is It Important to Express Your Dog’s Anal Glands?
Dogs have two small glands located just inside their anus. These glands secrete a smelly substance that dogs use to mark their territory. Sometimes, these glands can become impacted or infected, causing discomfort for your dog. Regularly expressing these glands can prevent these issues.
Expressing your dog’s anal glands isn’t just about preventing medical issues, it’s also about keeping your dog comfortable. A dog with impacted anal glands may scoot on the floor, lick their rear-end excessively, or have difficulty defecating.
What You Need to Express Your Dog’s Anal Glands
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:
- Rubber gloves
- A soft cloth or paper towels
- Dog-safe antiseptic wipes
How to Express Your Dog’s Anal Glands
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to express your dog’s anal glands:
- Put on your rubber gloves. This isn’t the most pleasant task, and you’ll want to protect your hands.
- Lift your dog’s tail gently.
- Locate the glands. They are situated at approximately 4 and 8 o’clock positions around the anus.
- With your thumb and forefinger, gently squeeze the glands. You should feel a small, pea-sized lump.
- Apply gentle pressure inwards and upwards. If done correctly, you should see a small amount of liquid being expelled.
- Clean the area with a dog-safe antiseptic wipe.
How Often Should You Express Your Dog’s Anal Glands?
The frequency of expressing your dog’s anal glands depends on several factors like their diet, size, and health condition. Dogs that eat a high-fiber diet may need their glands expressed less often, while smaller breeds may need it more frequently.
| Breed Size | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Small | Monthly |
| Medium | Bi-Monthly |
| Large | Quarterly |
FAQ
Q: Can I harm my dog if I express their anal glands incorrectly?
A: Yes, if done incorrectly, you can potentially harm your dog. It’s always best to have a vet show you how to do it first.
Q: How can I tell if my dog’s anal glands are impacted?
A: Common signs include scooting, licking the rear end excessively, and changes in their bowel movements.
Q: Can I just take my dog to the vet for this?
A: Absolutely! If you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, your vet can do it for you.
Caring for your dog involves getting to know them intimately, and that includes expressing their anal glands. With some patience and practice, you’ll become a pro in no time.
