How To Express My Dogs Anal Glands

Your dog’s anal glands (also called anal sacs) are two small pouches located on either side of the anus at roughly the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions. They normally empty a thin, strong-smelling liquid every time your dog passes a firm stool. However, problems occur when the glands fail to empty naturally, leading to discomfort, scooting, or even infection. This article provides a clinical yet practical guide for pet owners who want to understand when and how to express anal glands safely, drawing on best practices from veterinary consensus bodies such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), and the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE).

Quick Q&A: Common Questions

Question: Is it safe to express my dog’s anal glands at home without veterinary training?

Answer: While it is possible, it carries risks including improper emptying, trauma to the sacs, and worsening of underlying conditions. The AVMA and AAHA recommend that first-time expression should be demonstrated by a veterinarian or veterinary nurse. With proper instruction and caution, some owners can perform external expression for maintenance, but internal expression should always be left to professionals.

Understanding Anal Glands: What They Are and Why They Need Expressing

Anal glands are scent glands that produce a pungent, oily secretion used for territorial marking and identification. In healthy dogs, the pressure of a firm, formed stool naturally squeezes the glands as it passes through the anal canal. Problems arise when the stool is too soft (diarrhoea or diarrhoea in US spelling), when the dog is obese, or when the glands themselves are anatomically narrowed or over-productive. Signs that your dog may need expression include scooting (dragging their bottom on the floor), excessive licking of the anal area, a foul “fishy” odour, or straining during defecation.

Common Reasons for Impacted Anal Glands

• Dietary factors: Low-fibre diets or frequent soft stools (diarrhoea/diarrhoea) reduce natural pressure on the glands.
• Obesity: Excess body fat can prevent the glands from emptying fully.
• Anatomical predisposition: Breeds like Chihuahuas, Beagles, and Cocker Spaniels are more prone to impaction.
• Chronic inflammation: Allergies or skin infections can cause the gland ducts to swell, trapping secretions.

Professional Expression vs. Home Care

Veterinary professionals differentiate between two methods: external and internal expression. External expression involves applying gentle pressure to the outside of the gland through the skin, which is the method most often taught to owners. Internal expression, performed by a veterinarian or veterinary technician, uses a gloved, lubricated finger to empty the gland from within the rectum. Home care is generally limited to external expression and is only appropriate for dogs with mild, recurring impaction, not for those with infection, abscess, or severe pain. Always consult your veterinarian before starting a home routine.

How to Express Your Dog’s Anal Glands at Home

Before attempting any home expression, gather your supplies: disposable gloves, petroleum jelly, paper towels, and a mild antiseptic wipe. Work in a well-lit, easy-to-clean area (such as a bathroom or outdoors). Have a helper hold your dog securely if needed.

1. Position your dog: Standing or lying on their side with the tail lifted gently upward. Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the anus and surrounding area to reduce friction.
2. Locate the glands: With your thumb and forefinger, feel for two small, pea-sized bumps at approximately 4 and 8 o’clock positions around the anus.
3. External expression: Place a paper towel over the area to catch the discharge. Using a gentle, upward-and-inward motion, squeeze the gland between your thumb and finger. The fluid should exit through the opening just inside the anal margin. Repeat for the other side.
4. Aftercare: Wipe the area clean with a mild antiseptic wipe. Monitor for signs of pain, bleeding, or swelling. If no fluid is expressed or if the gland feels hard or painful, stop and consult your veterinarian.

Important: Do not attempt internal expression at home. It requires training to avoid damaging the delicate rectal wall and to assess for tumours or abscesses.

What to Expect at the Veterinary Clinic

If your dog has chronic anal gland issues, the veterinary team will perform a thorough rectal examination. Internal expression is quick (usually under a minute) and may be done during a routine appointment. The cost typically ranges from $20 to $60, depending on your location and clinic. If an abscess is present, the vet may need to lance, flush, and prescribe antibiotics. The CVMA and Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) both emphasize that recurring problems should prompt investigation into underlying diet, allergies, or structural abnormalities.

Prevention Tips

• Add fibre to the diet: Pumpkin puree, cooked carrots, or a quality high-fibre kibble can firm up stools. The FVE recommends a fibre supplement such as psyllium husk for prone dogs.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Reducing body fat improves natural gland function.
• Encourage regular, firm bowel movements: Consistent exercise and a balanced diet support digestive health.
• Schedule routine veterinary checks: Annual wellness exams allow your vet to assess anal gland health before problems arise.

When to Seek Veterinary Attention Immediately

Consult your vet if you notice blood or pus in the discharge, if your dog yelps when you touch the area, or if the glands appear red and swollen. These signs may indicate an infection or abscess that requires professional treatment. Attempting to express an infected gland at home can cause the infection to spread.

Empowering yourself with knowledge about anal gland expression is valuable, but remember that not every dog needs manual expression. By working closely with your veterinarian and following these guidelines, you can help your dog stay comfortable and reduce the risk of complications.