As a caregiver, you’re probably no stranger to the less-than-glamorous aspects of pet ownership. This guide will delve into the not-so-pleasant, but necessary, task of expressing your dog’s anal glands, a task often left to groomers and vets but one that you can handle at home, too.

What Are Anal Glands and Why They Need to be Expressed?

Anal glands, also known as anal sacs, are small glands located on either side of your dog’s anus. These glands produce a smelly, oily substance that dogs use for scent marking.

Sometimes, these glands can become impacted or infected if they don’t empty properly. This is when you may need to step in and manually express the glands. If your dog is scooting their rear on the floor, licking or biting at their anus, or has a foul smell coming from their rear end, it may be time for an anal gland expressing.

Preparing for the Task

Before you dive into this task, you’ll need to gather a few essential items:

Disposable gloves: This isn’t a task you want to handle bare-handed.
Paper towels or cloths: For cleaning up.
Warm water and mild soap: For cleaning the area before and after expressing.
A saline solution: This can help soothe the area after expressing.

The Step-by-Step Process

Here’s how to express your dog’s anal glands:

Put on your gloves. This is a messy task, and gloves will help protect your hands.
Clean the area. Use warm water and mild soap to clean around your dog’s anus.
Locate the glands. The anal glands are located at roughly the 4 and 8 o’clock positions on your dog’s anus.
Apply gentle pressure. Using your thumb and forefinger, gently apply pressure to the glands, pushing upwards and inwards. This should cause the glands to express.
Clean up. Use your paper towels or cloths to clean up any mess, then wash the area again with warm water and soap.
Apply a saline solution. This can help soothe the area and prevent infection.

Potential Risks and When to Seek Professional Help

Expressing your dog’s anal glands is generally safe to do at home, but there are potential risks. If you notice any signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or pus, or if your dog seems to be in pain, stop immediately and seek veterinary help.

Also, if you’re uncomfortable with the task or unable to express the glands, it’s perfectly okay to leave this task to the professionals. Many groomers and vets offer this service, and they’re trained to do it safely and effectively.

Maintaining Anal Gland Health

In addition to regular expressing, there are other ways you can help maintain your dog’s anal gland health:

Feed a high-fiber diet. This can help bulk up your dog’s stools, which can help naturally express the glands.
Encourage regular exercise. This can help keep your dog’s digestive system healthy, which can in turn help keep their anal glands healthy.
Regular veterinary check-ups. Your vet can check your dog’s anal glands during regular exams to make sure there are no issues.

FAQs

How often should I express my dog’s anal glands?

This can vary depending on the dog. Some dogs may need their glands expressed every few weeks, while others may only need it a few times a year. Your vet can give you a better idea of what’s best for your dog.

Can I hurt my dog by expressing their anal glands?

It’s possible to cause discomfort or injury if you’re not careful. If you’re not comfortable with the task, or if your dog seems to be in pain, it’s best to seek professional help.

What does the substance from the anal glands look like?

The substance from the anal glands is usually a thin, oily liquid that ranges in color from yellow to brown. It has a very strong, unpleasant smell.

Is it normal for my dog to lick their anus after expressing?

Some licking is normal, as your dog may be trying to soothe the area. However, excessive licking can indicate discomfort or infection, so if your dog is licking a lot after expressing, it’s a good idea to consult your vet.

What can I do to prevent anal gland problems in my dog?

Feeding a high-fiber diet, encouraging regular exercise, and scheduling regular vet check-ups can all help maintain anal gland health and prevent problems.