Anal gland disease is an extremely common problem that can affect dogs of any age, breed, or sex. If caught early, it can be quick and simple to treat. If your dog has never had any symptoms or problems with their anal glands, there’s no need to empty them routinely.
Both male and female dogs have two small pouches on the inside of the anus called the anal sacs or glands. Their normal function is to release a few drops of liquid into the stools to give them a distinctive smell. If the glands don’t empty as they should when your dog passes stools, then they fill up with secretion. This causes irritation and can lead to infection.
We advise you not to empty the anal glands yourself unless under veterinary advice. This can cause serious damage if it’s not done correctly.
Causes
The most common problem is when the glands fill up with a thin, brown secretion. Occasionally, we also see anal gland infections, impactions, and abscesses. Dogs also get anal gland tumours but these are uncommon.
Risk
These factors can lead to an increased risk of anal gland problems:
Low-quality or inadequate diets (especially those low in fibre)
Soft stools, diarrhoea, and infrequent bowel movements
Skin conditions and allergies
Obesity
Genetics: small breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzus.
Symptoms
Scooting, dragging, or rubbing their bottoms on the ground.
Licking or chewing around the tail, anus, and back legs.
Hair loss around the tail or back.
Suddenly sitting down or turning to look at their bottom.
Straining or discomfort when passing faeces.
Pain, swelling and discharge around the anus may indicate an abscess
Diagnosis
Full anal glands can be diagnosed on symptoms and a physical exam alone. Your vet may advise further tests for more complex problems. Tests may include:
Swabs of the gland contents
Biopsy of the gland tissue, especially if there are lumps or thickenings
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying condition and may include:
Expressing (emptying) full glands
Flushing anal glands
Prescription medication: pain relief and antibiotics
Surgery: including anal gland removal
Use a warm compress on the area to relieve some of the discomfort. You can do this for 5-10 minutes and repeat it 2-3 times daily.
Keep the area around the bottom as clean and dry as possible.
Add fibre to the diet, such as canned pumpkin, bran flakes, or dog fibre supplements. This can help to firm up the faeces in the short and long-term.
Prevention
Good-quality, complete dog food is extremely important. Abnormal stools are the main cause of anal gland disease.
Using fibre supplements can help reduce the signs.
Keep your dog in a healthy body condition and provide adequate exercise.
Get your dog’s anal glands emptied regularly. This should only be necessary if they develop symptoms. Some dogs will need their glands emptied every 4-8 weeks.
What to expect
The outlook depends on the type and severity of anal sac disorder.
For full glands, once emptied, the symptoms should resolve within 24 hours.
For mild infections and impactions, symptoms should improve within a few days of starting treatment.
For abscesses, a longer course of medication is usually necessary. The problem should resolve in 1-2 weeks with appropriate treatment.
The outlook for anal gland tumours depends on the type of growth and how quickly it is identified and treated.
Your vet will likely recommend a repeat check after a few days or a week. This is important to check to see if the problem has been resolved or if further medication is needed.
Anal gland problems can become a recurring problem if dogs have underlying allergies, obesity, or chronic stool problems. Special diets and supplements can help minimise the issue.