What are dog anal glands

Anal glands, also known as "anal sacs". The function of the anal glands is that when the dog is threatened or stressed, the anal sphincter will contract and release a very smelly fluid to warn the threat. When a dog defecates, the anal glands will discharge anal gland fluid to lubricate the anus and help the dog defecate. Cats also have anal glands like dogs, and their functions are the same.

Where are the dog’s anal glands?

The anal glands are a pair of pear-shaped glands located at the four o’clock and eight o’clock positions below the dog’s anus (the position of the analog clock hands) , and each of the two anal glands has an opening. Because the anal gland sacs are inside the dog's body, they are not visible from the outside.

Which dogs are prone to anal gland problems

1. Obese dogs;
2. Those who often eat meat or greasy food;
3 .Dogs that lack exercise at ordinary times;
4.Old dogs;
5.Dogs with long-term soft or loose stools can easily cause anal gland fluid accumulation and obstruction.

What problems are prone to occur in dogs’ anal glands

The anal gland sacs are filled with anal gland fluid. If this fluid cannot be discharged from the body in time, it will easily cause inflammation over time. The most common anal gland diseases are obstruction and inflammation. If your dog has the following conditions, you need to pay attention to the fact that your dog's anal glands may be inflamed. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly.
1 If a dog rubs its butt on the floor, there may be an anal gland problem. Especially for dogs that are regularly dewormed, if this behavior occurs, you should pay attention.
2 The dog licks its anus and tail frequently.
3 The anus is red, swollen or ulcerated, and it is difficult to defecate.
4 If you feel the position of the dog’s anal glands with your hands, you can feel the bulging packets, indicating that secretions may have accumulated in the anal glands. If one side is inflamed, one anal sac may be significantly larger than the other.
Want to see more:
How to clean the dog’s anal glands and how often should they be squeezed?