Canine Anal Glands

I don’t recommend anyone doing this, but if you think you can, be prepared for the AWFUL smell. The smell is one of the reasons I won’t manually express my dog’s anal glands if needed. Here are the instructions if you think you can deal with it:

• Get a warm (not hot) washcloth.
• Locate your dog’s anal gland by lifting the tail and using the other hand to find two lumps on either side of the anal opening.
• ** Hold the cloth over the anal opening to prevent the awful smelly squirt from getting on you or anything else.
• Apply firm but gentle pressure to the sacs.

That should cause fluid to come out of the anal and emptying the glands. Then wipe your dog’s butt and you’re finished.

If you notice blood or pus, call the vet, your dog most likely has an infection.

Anal gland infections will make your dog very uncomfortable. If you think your dog’s anal glands are infected, visit a vet! Here are some of the signs:

• Scooting - Have you recently notice your dog scooting or dragging his bottom across the floor?
• Licking / Chewing - Has your dog been licking or chewing near his rectum area?
• Soft / Mushy Stools - Notice any difference in your dogs stools?

If you see any of the signs above, let your dog’s vet know about it because your dog’s anal glands might need to be manually expressed. You could do it yourself , but it’s better to leave this type of job to the professionals. You shouldn’t really be worried about the bill, most vets charge under $30 to manually express your canine’s anal glands. Do you have your dog groomed by a professional? Some groomers will also manually express your dog’s anal glands.