Recognizing Symptoms of Blocked Anal Glands in Dogs
Anal glands (also called anal sacs) are two small structures located on either side of your dog's anus. These glands produce a strong-smelling fluid that plays a role in scent marking and communication between dogs. While healthy dogs naturally express these glands when they pass firm stools, problems can arise when the glands become blocked or fail to empty properly.
What Causes Anal Gland Blockage?
A variety of factors can contribute to blocked anal glands. Genetics play a role—some breeds like Bulldogs, Beagles, Poodles, Lhasa Apsos, Dachshunds, and Cocker Spaniels are more prone. Obesity is another risk factor; excess fat can interfere with gland emptying. Chronic soft stools or diarrhea (often from low-fiber diets or allergies), skin conditions, and anatomical differences in gland openings also increase risk. Both male and female dogs can be affected at any age.
Common Anal Gland Disorders
- Impaction: Thickened fluid clogs the glands, causing swelling and discomfort.
- Infection (Anal Sacculitis): Bacteria infect the gland, leading to inflammation and pus buildup.
- Abscesses: Untreated infections may create pockets of pus that rupture into painful sores near the anus.
- Tumors: Cancerous growths (like anal sac adenocarcinoma) cause swelling or masses near the anus.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
If your dog's anal glands are blocked or infected, you'll likely notice some clear signs. These include:
- Scooting—dragging their hind end across the floor to relieve irritation.
- Excessive licking, biting, or chewing at the anus or lower back.
- Straining or difficulty when defecating.
- Reluctance to sit down due to discomfort.
- A foul, fishy odor coming from the rear end.
- Swelling, redness, or visible discharge around the anus.
- Blood or pus near the rectum or visible in stool.
- Restlessness, irritability, or behavioral changes (such as increased sensitivity when touched near the tail).
If you observe any combination of these symptoms—especially if they're persistent—your dog should see a veterinarian promptly. Left untreated, impaction can lead to infection and abscesses that may rupture and cause serious complications around the rectum.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your veterinarian will usually diagnose anal gland disease through a clinical exam (often including a rectal exam). For complicated cases—like recurring infections—blood work, ultrasound imaging, cultures, or biopsies may be needed for a full assessment.
- The most common treatment is manual expression, where a professional empties the glands by hand.
- If there's infection or severe impaction, flushing under sedation might be necessary.
- Bacterial infections require antibiotics, sometimes paired with anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief.
- An abscess may need surgical drainage.
- Persistent issues could lead to surgical removal of the glands (though this carries risks like incontinence).
Diets higher in fiber help produce firmer stools that naturally express the glands. Weight management and addressing underlying skin/allergy problems also reduce recurrence. Routine manual expression is not recommended unless advised by your vet; improper technique can cause pain or infection.
Preventing Anal Gland Problems
- Feed your dog a balanced diet with adequate fiber for firm stools.
- Keep your pet at a healthy weight through regular exercise and portion control.
- Treat diarrhea and skin conditions promptly to prevent chronic issues.
The earlier you recognize symptoms and seek care for your dog’s anal gland problems, the better their chances for quick relief without complications. Most dogs respond well to treatment when issues are caught early—but chronic cases may need ongoing management with your veterinarian’s guidance.
