It’s all fun and games until the ANAL GLANDS EXPLODE

“It’s all fun and games until the ANAL GLANDS EXPLODE“

This was the text on a T-shirt sold by the pre-veterinary/AHT club at my university around 2010. It was a huge hit within the club—but it definitely got some strange looks around campus at Murray State University.

So, what are anal glands, and why do some dogs have constant issues while others never seem to? Let’s talk about it.

Note: This topic is safe-for-work, but we will be talking about anuses, stool, and other uncomfortable topics for those not in the veterinary field. It’s anatomy—not weird—but feel free to get your giggles out before reading on!

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What are Anal Glands?

Anal glands are two small sacs located on either side of a dog’s anus. They sit between the internal and external anal sphincters and produce a foul-smelling secretion. Normally, pressure from stool passing through the anus causes these glands to express their contents onto the stool.

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Why Do Some Dogs Experience Anal Gland Issues?

Unfortunately, some dogs don’t express their glands properly. This can lead to inappropriate expression (such as during stress or deep relaxation), infections, or abscesses requiring medical attention. Causes vary, but diet, obesity, and breed/genetic factors often play a role.

Diet is a big one—especially if the dog experiences diarrhea, constipation, or food sensitivities. After a bout of diarrhea, for instance, stool may be too soft to trigger gland expression.

Obesity can place excess pressure on the perianal area, making normal expression difficult. Additionally, overweight pets may have weakened perineal muscles that further complicate the issue.

Breed predisposition also plays a role. Smaller breeds like poodles, Malteses, and Chihuahuas tend to need more frequent gland expression, even with normal stool. But any dog—large or small—can develop an abscess. I’ve seen it in pit bulls, mastiffs, Labradors, and toy breeds alike.

Occasionally, growths or masses develop in the anal glands. These should be evaluated and removed by a veterinarian, as they can be cancerous and may metastasize (spread to other organs).

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How to Know If Your Dog Has Anal Gland Issues

Common signs include:

• Excessive licking of the rear
• Scooting
• General signs of discomfort
• Yelping or biting at the rear, as if something is bothering them
• Discharge from the anus
• Inappropriate expression (e.g., on your couch)

If the glands are painful or swollen, your dog might strain during defecation or appear constipated. Blood or discharge may also be visible on the stool.

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Signs of an Anal Gland Abscess

A dog with an abscess may show all the signs above, but more severely. They may:

• Seem lethargic or depressed
• Lose appetite
• Run a fever

The gland often becomes blocked with thick material, leading to swelling and inflammation. In some cases, it ruptures and creates an open, painful wound near the anus.

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Treatment of Anal Gland Abscesses and Infections

If your dog has an infection, the vet will try to manually express the gland, sometimes flushing it and applying an antibiotic cream directly inside. This may be done while the dog is awake, lightly sedated, or under full sedation—depending on pain and temperament.

If the gland can’t be expressed, the vet may attempt medical treatment or surgically lance the area.

Following treatment, your pet will typically be sent home with medications including pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics. You may also be given topical treatments or supplements to help prevent recurrence. An e-collar is often necessary to keep your pet from licking or chewing the area.

Your vet will likely recommend a recheck within a week or two to confirm healing.

In some cases, the glands may need to be surgically removed—especially if there’s a mass or chronic issues unresponsive to medical management. Risks of surgery include anesthesia, infection, and (rarely) fecal incontinence if the anal sphincter is affected. That’s why vets typically pursue medical management first.

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How to Prevent Anal Gland Problems

Prevention can be tricky, but if your dog is prone to issues, consider:

• Changing their diet
• Adding a supplement
• Scheduling regular gland expressions (every 1–2 months, or as needed)

While there’s no conclusive scientific evidence supporting supplements for anal glands, many vets and pet owners report success. I often recommend Glandex or No Scoot for dogs with recurrent issues, along with a high-fiber, hypoallergenic, or novel-ingredient diet.

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A Note About Cats

Yes—cats have anal glands too!

Though much less common, cats can suffer from impaction or infection, often as a secondary issue from GI disease. If you see swelling or a wound near your cat’s rear, contact your vet.

Treatment is similar to dogs’, though cats usually need sedation for expression. Most respond well to antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and pain relief.

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Conclusion

Today’s topic may seem strange, but anal gland problems are surprisingly common—and often misunderstood or awkward to ask about. With proper treatment and preventative care, most pets recover well and stay comfortable.

If you think your pet is experiencing an anal gland issue, call your vet!