If your dog is dragging their bottom across the floor, licking obsessively at their rear end, or leaving a distinctly fishy odor in the room, there's a good chance their anal glands are the culprit. Anal gland problems are extremely common in dogs — in 2026, they remain one of the top reasons owners make unscheduled vet visits. The good news: most cases are manageable once you understand what's going on.
What Are Anal Glands?
Dogs have two small sacs located just inside the anus, one on each side (at roughly the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions) (AAHA Canine Life Stage Guidelines, 2019). These anal glands — also called anal sacs — produce a smelly, oily secretion that helps dogs identify each other and mark territory. Normally, these glands express (empty) naturally whenever your dog has a firm bowel movement, with the pressure doing the work automatically.
When that system breaks down, problems follow.
Common Anal Gland Problems in Dogs
Impaction
The most common issue. When the anal gland secretions thicken or the gland doesn't empty properly, the fluid builds up and becomes difficult to express. Impacted glands cause discomfort and scooting. Overweight dogs and dogs with frequent soft stools are especially prone because there isn't enough pressure to empty the glands normally.
Infection
Impaction left untreated can become infected. Signs include swelling, redness, and heat near the anus, and your dog may cry or snap when touched near their tail.
Abscess
A severely infected anal gland can abscess, causing a painful, swollen lump near the anus that may rupture and ooze pus or blood. This is a veterinary emergency.
Anal Gland Tumors
Though rare, anal sac adenocarcinoma is a cancer that can develop in the gland. It's more common in older dogs and may cause hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium). If you notice a hard lump near the anus that doesn't resolve with treatment, ask your vet about imaging.
Signs Your Dog Has Anal Gland Issues
- Scooting — dragging their bottom on the floor or grass
- Excessive licking or biting at the rear
- Fishy odor that seems to come from the back end
- Visible swelling or discoloration near the anus
- Straining or discomfort when defecating
- Leaving wet spots or yellowish-brown discharge on furniture or bedding
If your dog is also not eating or acting lethargic, a more serious infection may be involved.
What to Do at Home
Do not try to express anal glands at home without veterinary instruction. Improper technique can rupture the gland or push the infection deeper.
What you can do:
- Check for visible swelling or wounds near the anus — if you see an open sore, swollen mass, or your dog is yelping when touched, see a vet that day
- Feed a high-fiber diet — firm stools help the glands express naturally; pumpkin puree (plain) can help some dogs
- Maintain a healthy weight — overweight dogs are significantly more prone to impaction
- Note the frequency — occasional scooting after a bowel movement isn't always concerning, but persistent scooting warrants a vet check
When to See a Vet
- Scooting persists for more than a day or two
- You see swelling, redness, or discharge near the anus
- Your dog cries when you touch their tail or sits uncomfortably
- A visible abscess or open wound appears
- Your dog has had repeated anal gland impactions (your vet may recommend surgical removal)
Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine notes that dogs with recurrent anal sac disease may benefit from routine professional expression every 4–8 weeks, and in chronic cases, surgical removal (anal sacculectomy) is an effective long-term solution.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I have my dog's anal glands expressed? A: Most dogs never need manual expression — healthy glands empty on their own. Dogs with recurrent problems typically need expression every 4–8 weeks by a vet or groomer; your vet will advise based on your dog's history.
Q: Can I express my dog's anal glands at home? A: Technically yes, but it's not recommended without vet guidance. Doing it too frequently or incorrectly can cause trauma, inflammation, and even worsen the problem. Ask your vet to show you proper technique if your dog needs frequent expression.
Q: Why do small dogs have more anal gland problems? A: Smaller breeds tend to have narrower anal gland ducts and are more often overweight, both of which impede normal emptying. Breeds like Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, and Toy Poodles are frequently affected.
Q: My dog's anal gland ruptured — what do I do? A: This is a veterinary emergency. Keep the area clean, don't try to squeeze it further, and get to a vet immediately. Ruptures need proper flushing, antibiotic treatment, and sometimes surgery.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of your pet's health conditions.