How to Express Dog Anal Glands At Home

As pet parents, we want to do everything we can to make sure our pets feel as comfortable and happy as possible. So when we see our dog scooting or we see signs of anal gland issues, like irritated skin or digestive uncomfort, it’s important to learn how to express your dog’s anal glands at home to give them relief.

Frequent anal gland expressions by a veterinarian or groomer can become pricey and inconvenient. You can squeeze your dog’s anal glands at home, but you should always consult your veterinarian if you have medical concerns for your pet. If you suspect that your pet might have anal gland issues, anal gland expressions can be performed at home with the proper instruction and knowledge!

When to Clean a Dog's Anal Glands

It's important to know when your dog's anal glands need attention, in order to prevent discomfort and potential health issues. Generally, a dog's anal glands should be cleaned when they become full, impacted, or infected. Some telltale signs include frequent scooting across the floor, excessive licking or biting at the rear end, and a strong, unpleasant odor.

If you notice these symptoms, it might be time to consider expressing the glands either at home or with the help of a veterinarian. Additionally, certain breeds are more prone to anal gland issues and may require more frequent cleaning. Regular check-ups with your vet can help you determine the best schedule for your dog's needs.

SYMPTOMS OF ANAL GLAND ISSUES

There are a handful of common signs and symptoms that your cat or dog needs their anal glands expressed. By understanding these signs, you can have a better understanding of when your pet is uncomfortable and what you can do to help.

Symptoms of Anal Gland Issues in Dogs 

If your dog’s anal glands fill up excessively, it can create pressure, which can be very uncomfortable for your dog. When this happens, your dog might display symptoms of anal gland problems, the most common of which is scooting their rear end across the floor. Besides scooting, other symptoms of anal gland problems in dogs include a fishy or foul odor from your pet, excessive licking of the rear end, discomfort while walking or sitting, straining to defecate, or redness/swelling near the rear end.

Below are a few of the most common symptoms that your dog needs their anal glands expressed:

• Your dog is scooting their butt on the ground
• Irritated skin around the anus and base of the tail
• Fishy or foul odor around the rear end
• Discharge or leakage from your dog’s butt
• Noticeable discomfort when walking, sitting, or going to the bathroom
• Redness or swelling around the anus

Symptoms of Anal Gland Issues in Cats 

In cats, it may be slightly more difficult to pinpoint any symptoms as cats are very good at masking their illness. One of the few signs that could indicate that your cat is having an anal gland issue is defecating outside of the litter box. By keeping a careful eye on your cat then you can have a better understanding of when your pet needs their anal glands expressed.

Below are a few of the most common symptoms that your cat needs their anal glands expressed:

• Swelling or redness around the anus
• Cat licking or chewing at their anus or base of the tail
• Cat scooting their butt on the ground
• Drainage or leakage from the anus
• Fishy or foul odor around the rear end

How To Express A Dog’s Anal Glands At Home

• Place a small dog on a table or counter in front of you, or kneel behind a large dog.
• Put on a pair of latex or similar gloves.
• Lift up the tail and take about an inch on each side of the anal opening.
• Using your index finger and thumb, pinch and squeeze the area on both sides of the anal opening. Gently compress the area until you see small amounts of liquid coming out. You may have to repeat this step once or twice.
• Gently wipe the anal area clean using warm water on a rag or paper towel.

Internal Method

The internal method can be difficult and should only be performed if following proper instruction. However, it is the method professionals and veterinarians prefer.

• Place a small dog on a table or counter in front of you, or kneel behind a large dog.

• Put on a pair of latex or similar gloves and apply lubricant to your index finger.
• Lift up the tail and gently insert your index finger into the rectum approximately one inch forward.
• Feel with your index finger and thumb for a firm grape-sized object at the five or seven o’clock positions.
• When you have found the gland gently squeeze the gland’s contents outwards by putting pressure on the most distant side of the gland first and continuing to squeeze towards you while applying pressure on the exterior with your thumb. Do not use more force than you would feel comfortable applying to your own, closed eye.
• The gland should be barely palpable when empty.
• Gently wipe the anal area clean using warm water on a rag or paper towel and repeat on the other side if necessary.

DOG ANAL GLAND ANATOMY