Anal Gland Expression

Most people never think about their dog's anal glands until there's a problem with them. These glands are designed to provide lubrication when a dog passes a stool, and they also give each dog its own unique scent.

Every dog has two small glands located on either side of its rectal opening. Each gland holds a small amount of a brown, noxious-smelling liquid substance. Whenever your dog urinates or defecates, these glands receive a small amount of pressure that releases a tiny bit of the fluid along with your dog's custom-blended scent.

The famous scoot across the floor is a good indication that your dog needs his anal glands expressed. Other signs are a fishy odor around your dog's behind, your dog licking near his rectum, or soft stools.

Dog feces are normally firm, and the anal glands usually empty when the dog defecates, lubricating the anal opening in the process. When the dog's stools are soft they may not exert enough pressure on the glands, which then may fail to empty. This may cause discomfort as the full anal gland pushes on the anus. The glands can be emptied by a groomer or vet, by squeezing the gland so the contents are released through the small openings on either side of the anus.

Anal gland fluid is normally yellow to tan in color and watery in consistency. Impacted anal gland material is usually brown or gray and thick. The presence of blood or pus may indicate infection.

At Hairy Babies, we perform Anal Gland Expression as a part of our grooming process. For regular customers, we offer this service “FREE OF CHARGE” between grooming sessions!