What are Anal Glands?

• If you're a dog owner, you may or may not be familiar with the two small glands located near your pet's rectum, which are called anal glands. Located under the dog's tail at approximately 4 and 8 o'clock, anal glands produce secretions that are then released--or expressed--during your pet's bowel movement. These secretions are a way for your dog to mark his territory and let other dogs know of his presence (this is why you often see dogs sniffing each other's rear). Dogs may also express their anal glands if they become frightened or agitated, at which time a very foul-smelling odor will emit from the animal--this is usually the time when owners first learn about anal glands.
  
  

What Causes Anal Gland Disease?

• Although a dog's anal glands are designed to express themselves naturally, this sometimes does not happen. As a result, dogs can develop a very painful condition known as anal sac disease. The disease develops when the anal sacs become impacted, inflamed and infected. Impaction is most commonly seen in smaller breeds and occurs when the dog's anal sacs produce too much fluid. As a result, the dog is unable to pass the secretions during her bowel movement and the anal sacs become impacted. Once the glands are impacted, if no treatment is provided, the anal sacs can become inflamed. An inflamed anal sac can be very painful for a dog and can lead to the formation of an abscess on the dog's rectum. When an abscess develops, the anal sac fills with pus and the skin around the anus grows red. Tumors may also develop and, although they are usually less painful than abscesses, they can spread to your dog's lymph nodes and lead to cancer.
  
  

Preventing Anal Gland Disease

• To prevent anal sac disease, make sure that your dog's anal glands are expressed regularly. If your dog is having problems expressing the glands, he will let you know--you just have to be on the watch for signs like scooting (when the dog drags his behind on the ground) and frequent licking of the rectum area. In addition, the dog may avoid sitting and have difficulties defecating. If you notice that your pet is straining while using the bathroom, keep an eye out for the other symptoms mentioned. Once you've determined that your dog is having problems expressing his anal glands, take him to the veterinarian to have the glands manually expressed. To prevent future occurrences of anal gland disease, provide enough fiber to your dog, as bulkier stools allow your dog to more easily express the anal gland secretions.