Managing Anal Gland Problems in Dogs (Vet-Approved Guide)

Dogs have two small scent glands — also called anal sacs — located just inside the anus at the 4 and 8 oʼclock positions. These sacs produce a smelly fluid used for marking territory. When your dog passes a firm stool, it naturally presses against these glands, helping them empty.

If the stool is too soft, small, or infrequent, the glands donʼt empty properly. Fluid builds up inside, thickens over time, and creates pressure that becomes uncomfortable or painful for your dog.

You might notice scooting, licking, or a strong odour when this happens.

Common triggers include:

• Low-fibre diet or poor stool quality
• Food allergies or sensitivities
• Chronic diarrhoea or constipation
• Obesity or poor muscle tone
• Bacterial overgrowth or hormonal imbalance

Small breeds like Cavaliers, Dachshunds, and Toy Poodles are more prone to recurring impaction due to narrower ducts and a higher tendency for soft stools.

The signs of anal gland problems can range from mild irritation to serious infection.

Early signs

• Scooting or dragging their bottom on the ground 
• Licking or biting around the tail or anus
• Swelling or redness near the rear 
• A strong fishy or metallic odour 
• Straining or pain while defecating

These early signs usually point to simple impaction, where thickened fluid is trapped inside the gland but hasnʼt yet become infected. Addressing it early prevents more painful complications.

Advanced signs

• Pus or blood leaking from the anal area
• A visible lump or abscess beside the anus 
• Whimpering, pain, or reluctance to sit 
• Fever, lethargy, or appetite loss

You may also notice a small open wound or hole near the anus — this is often a ruptured abscess and is extremely painful. If you see discharge, swelling, or blood, your dog may have an infection or a burst gland. Contact your vet immediately.

Anal gland problems arenʼt a disease in themselves — theyʼre a symptom that something is interfering with natural gland emptying. The main causes fall into three categories:

1. Impaction
When fluid thickens and canʼt escape, the gland becomes impacted. This is the most common and least severe form. Dogs with soft stools or irregular bowel movements are most affected. Impaction is also common in overweight dogs whose reduced muscle tone makes emptying less effective.

2. Infection or abscess
If bacteria enter the gland, it can become inflamed, painful, and filled with pus. You might notice redness, swelling, or a small wound that leaks fluid. Abscesses can rupture and cause bleeding — an urgent condition that needs antibiotics and drainage. Without treatment, infection can spread into surrounding tissue, making recovery slower and more painful.

3. Chronic inflammation or cancer
Long-term irritation can cause scarring or abnormal tissue growth inside the glands. In rare cases, tumours (anal sac adenocarcinomas) develop, usually in older dogs. Your vet may recommend imaging or biopsy if symptoms keep returning. Recurring issues despite good diet and weight management are a strong reason to investigate underlying structural or tumour-related causes.

If your dog suddenly starts scooting, donʼt panic — but donʼt ignore it either.

1. Check for irritation – look for redness, swelling, or discharge.
2. Observe their stools – note if theyʼre soft, small, or irregular.
3. Avoid expressing at home – improper technique can cause pain or infection.
4. Book a vet visit – your vet can safely express or flush the glands and assess for infection.

Your vet may also look for parasites, skin infections, or foreign material stuck in the fur — all of which can mimic anal gland irritation.

They may also check for worms, colitis, or food sensitivities, as these can mimic anal gland symptoms.

Because anal gland issues can have multiple causes, your vet will start with a physical exam and manual expression to assess how full the glands are and what the fluid looks like.

Depending on the findings, they may recommend:

• Anal gland expression to relieve pressure
• Flushing and infusion if pus or thick debris is present
• Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory creams for infection
• Warm compresses to ease swelling
• Pain relief if your dog is sore
• Imaging or biopsy for chronic or severe cases
• Surgical removal (sacculectomy) for repeated infections or cancer

Most dogs recover quickly with treatment and ongoing diet management.

Yes, diet plays a major role in both treatment and prevention. The goal is to produce firm, well-formed stools that naturally press on the glands during bowel movements. A vet-approved, high-fibre diet supports digestion and keeps things moving smoothly.

Look for foods with:

• Added fibre (beet pulp, psyllium husk, or pumpkin) 
• Digestible proteins (fish, chicken, or hydrolysed meat) 
• Prebiotics and probiotics to support gut balance 
• Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation
• Limited ingredients for dogs with allergies

Dogs with chronic soft stool often improve dramatically once switched to a consistent, higher-fibre diet, many stop scooting altogether.

Royal Canin Digestive Care Dry Dog Food

This Royal Canin formula supports optimal stool quality through a precise fibre blend and highly digestible proteins. Designed to encourage natural gland expression through firmer stools, it’s a great option for general digestive maintenance and mild gland issues.

Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Digestive/Weight Management

Hill’s Prescription w/d is high in fibre and clinically formulated to support healthy weight and digestive function. It promotes better stool formation, helping manage recurring anal gland problems while assisting with weight and glucose control.

Prime100 SPD Air Kangaroo & Pumpkin

Crafted with a single protein source and allergy-friendly ingredients, Prime100 SPD Air combines lean kangaroo with pumpkin for natural fibre. It’s ideal for dogs prone to soft stools or food intolerance contributing to gland discomfort.

Advance Sensitive Skin & Digestion

Advance Sensitive Skin & Digestion is a gentle option enriched with prebiotic fibre and omega fatty acids to support digestion and reduce inflammation. Suitable for dogs with mild gland issues and sensitive stomachs.

EAC Gland Clear Supplement (Vet-Only)

This vet-approved supplement works with your dog’s regular food to help promote natural gland emptying. Features anti-inflammatory ingredients and fibre to support ongoing gland health.

Even mild anal gland irritation can progress quickly, so itʼs important to know when simple home monitoring isnʼt enough. While occasional scooting might settle with diet changes, certain symptoms are strong indicators that your dog needs prompt veterinary care.

Call your vet if your dog shows:

• Blood, pus, or swelling around the anus
• Scooting or licking lasting longer than 48 hours Pain, straining, or reluctance to defecate
• A burst abscess or open wound
• Strong odour that persists after cleaning

If possible, bring a fresh stool sample (under 12 hours old) or a clear photo. It helps your vet assess stool consistency and severity.

When in doubt, always call. Dogs can hide discomfort well, and even minor irritation can worsen quickly if left untreated.

Are anal gland issues an emergency?
Not always. Mild scooting or occasional licking can happen if your dogʼs glands are a little full and may settle with diet changes. But if you notice bleeding, swelling, or pain, or if your dogʼs scooting lasts more than 48 hours, itʼs time to see your vet. Ruptured or infected glands are painful and need treatment straight away.

What causes anal gland problems in dogs?
Most cases happen when the glands donʼt empty properly during defecation. This can be due to soft stools, low-fibre diets, allergies, or obesity. Chronic diarrhoea or food intolerances are common culprits, especially in small breeds.

Can I squeeze my dogʼs anal glands at home?
Itʼs best left to your vet or groomer. Expressing the glands incorrectly can cause inflammation, infection, or scarring. If your dog needs regular emptying, your vet can show you the correct technique.

Can diet really fix anal gland issues?
Often, yes. A high-fibre, digestible diet helps produce firm stools that naturally express the glands. Many dogs stop scooting completely once their stool quality improves. Ask your vet to recommend a suitable formula if problems keep recurring.

Can stress cause anal gland problems?
Indirectly. Stress can upset digestion and lead to loose stool, which prevents the glands from emptying properly. Supporting your dogʼs gut health and routine can help reduce flare-ups.

How can I prevent anal gland problems?
Feed a balanced, fibre-rich diet, keep your dog active and at a healthy weight, and monitor their stool. Regular vet checks and early intervention make flare-ups far less likely.

Anal gland problems are messy but manageable. With early care, proper diet, and routine vet checks, most dogs stay comfortable and avoid recurrence. A fibre- rich, digestible diet is your best defence — helping your dog express their glands naturally and feel their best.