How Often Do Dogs Need Their Anal Glands Expressed?

If you’ve ever noticed your dog scooting across the floor, licking their backside too much, or giving off a strange fishy smell, you’ve probably come across the topic of anal glands. While it’s not the most pleasant subject, it’s an important part of your dog’s health.

Anal glands, also called anal sacs, are small scent glands located on either side of your dog’s anus. They naturally empty a little each time your dog poops, leaving a scent that helps dogs mark territory.

Sometimes, though, these glands don’t empty properly, and that’s when problems start. So the big question is—how often do dogs need their anal glands expressed?

Do All Dogs Need Anal Gland Expression?

Not every dog needs their anal glands manually expressed. Many dogs go their whole lives without any issues because their glands empty naturally when they pass firm stools.

• Small breeds (like Chihuahuas, Poodles, and Dachshunds) are more prone to problems.

• Overweight dogs may also struggle with poor anal gland emptying.

• Dogs with soft stools or diarrhea often can’t push enough pressure to release the fluid.

So, while some dogs never need help, others may need regular manual expression.

Signs Your Dog’s Anal Glands Need Attention

Before talking about how often, it’s important to know the signs. Dogs show discomfort when their anal glands are full or impacted. Common signs include:

• Scooting their bottom along the floor

• Licking or biting at the anal area

• A strong, fishy, or foul odor

• Straining to poop or showing pain during bowel movements

• Swelling or redness around the anus

If you notice these, it’s time to check with your vet or groomer.

How Often Should Anal Glands Be Expressed?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer because it depends on your dog’s individual health.

• Most dogs: Never or only when symptoms appear

• Dogs with recurring issues: Every 1–2 months

• Severe cases: Every 3–4 weeks, as advised by a vet

Routine expression “just because” is not recommended for all dogs. Over-expressing can irritate the glands, making problems worse. The best approach is to watch your dog’s symptoms and let your vet guide you.

What Happens If You Don’t Express Them?

If your dog’s anal glands don’t empty and you ignore the signs, problems can escalate.

• Impaction: The glands fill with thick fluid that can’t come out naturally.

• Infection: Impacted glands can become infected, leading to pain, pus, and fever.

• Abscesses: Severe infections can rupture, leaving open wounds that need medical care.

• Chronic issues: Some dogs develop long-term problems that require regular vet visits.

This is why monitoring your dog and acting quickly is key.

Who Should Do It—Vet or Groomer?

Both veterinarians and professional groomers can express anal glands, but the method differs.

• External expression (groomers): Gentle pressure is applied from the outside. This may work for mild cases but doesn’t always fully empty the glands.

• Internal expression (vets): A gloved finger is inserted into the rectum to fully empty the sacs. This is more thorough and recommended for dogs with ongoing problems.

For safety, it’s always best to let a professional handle it rather than trying at home unless your vet has trained you.

Can Diet Help Reduce the Need?

Yes, diet plays a big role in anal gland health. Firm stools put pressure on the glands and help them empty naturally.

• High-fiber diets (pumpkin, sweet potato, or vet-recommended fiber supplements) help make firmer stools.

• Weight management reduces pressure on the glands.

• Food allergies can contribute to chronic anal gland problems, so switching diets may help.

Sometimes, a simple diet change can reduce or even eliminate the need for regular expression.

Dogs Prone to Frequent Expression

Some dogs are more likely to need routine gland care than others:

• Small breeds like Toy Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Bichons

• Overweight dogs who have weaker muscle tone around the anal area

• Dogs with chronic soft stools from allergies or digestive issues

If your dog is in one of these groups, keep an eye out for symptoms.

Long-Term Solutions for Chronic Issues

If your dog needs frequent anal gland expression, your vet may suggest:

• Supplements with fiber or probiotics

• Prescription diets for digestive health

• Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medicine if infections occur

• Surgery (anal sacculectomy): In severe, chronic cases, the glands may be removed permanently.

Surgery is usually a last resort but can offer relief for dogs with repeated infections.

Conclusion

So, how often do dogs need their anal glands expressed? The truth is, most dogs don’t need it at all unless symptoms appear. For those that do, it can range from every few weeks to every couple of months, depending on the severity of the problem.

The key is to monitor your dog, look for warning signs, and work with your vet to decide what’s best. With the right diet, care, and professional guidance, you can keep your dog comfortable and avoid painful anal gland issues.

FAQs

How can I tell if my dog needs anal glands expressed?

Look for scooting, licking, a fishy smell, or swelling near the anus. Some dogs may also struggle to poop or show signs of discomfort. If you notice these symptoms, contact your vet or groomer for an exam and proper care.

Can I express my dog’s anal glands at home?

Yes, but it should only be done if your vet has shown you the proper technique. Incorrect handling can hurt your dog or cause infection. In most cases, it’s safer and more hygienic to let a vet or groomer do it instead.

Do all dogs need regular anal gland expression?

No, most dogs never need their anal glands manually expressed. Their bodies naturally empty them during bowel movements. Only dogs with recurring problems require routine care, which can be anywhere from every few weeks to every couple of months.

Can diet prevent anal gland problems?

Yes, adding fiber to your dog’s diet can help create firm stools that naturally press on the glands and empty them. Pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or fiber supplements often help. Managing weight and avoiding food allergies can also reduce chronic anal gland issues.

What happens if anal glands get infected?

Infected anal glands can cause pain, swelling, pus, and sometimes abscesses that rupture. If untreated, this can become very serious. Vets usually treat infections with antibiotics, pain relief, and sometimes draining. Severe or repeated infections may lead to surgery as a permanent solution.