Anal gland inflammation in dogs
It's common for dogs to drag their bottoms along the ground – sometimes called 'scooting'. If your dog is doing this more than usual, it might be due to irritation around their rear end. Anal gland inflammation is a possible cause, but other reasons for itching and discomfort also exist! Some dogs never have issues with their anal glands, while others aren't so lucky and suffer from recurrent problems. It's very individual. If your dog has had anal gland inflammation before, speak to your vet about ways to help prevent it from happening again.
What are anal glands?
Anal glands (also known as anal sacs) are two small glands located on either side of your dog's anus. Normally, they empty their contents automatically when your dog passes a stool. Sometimes, this emptying process doesn't work correctly, and the glands can become inflamed. They can also become inflamed for other reasons.
Symptoms of anal gland inflammation
Your dog might show symptoms like scooting (dragging their bottom on the floor/ground) or excessively licking their rear end. Later on, you might notice redness or swelling, and your dog may seem sore in that area.
Try to observe where your dog is licking. For example, female dogs might lick their vulva, which could indicate a different issue. However, if the licking is focused on or very near the anal opening, it could point to a problem with the anal glands.
When should I seek veterinary care?
If you suspect your dog has a problem with their anal glands, please contact a vet. The vet might be able to express (empty) the glands. If the glands are very inflamed, your dog may need to be sedated for a thorough examination. Sometimes, an abscess can form and even burst.
What you can do at home while waiting for your vet appointment
If your dog is showing symptoms and you suspect anal gland inflammation, we recommend contacting your vet. In the meantime, here are a few care tips:
Use a protective cone (like a lampshade collar) to stop your dog from licking their bottom.
Gently clean the area with lukewarm water twice a day for several minutes until you can see the vet.
If your dog's condition worsens, they seem to be in a lot of pain, or if you notice any bleeding around the anal opening (which can indicate a rupture), seek veterinary attention urgently. A ruptured anal gland is very painful and requires immediate care.
