Anal Glands in Dogs: Problems, Symptoms, and Treatment
Anal Glands in Dogs: Problems, Symptoms, and Treatment
What are anal glands in dogs?
Anal glands (anal sacs, paranal sinuses) are paired, gland-rich sacs located in the subcutaneous tissue on either side of the anus in dogs—typically at the “four o’clock” and “eight o’clock” positions. They produce a unique scent mixture that is released during defecation and in stressful situations. For dogs, this secretion serves as a means of communication: Other dogs identify a dog through this scent profile—hence the intense sniffing when they meet.
When the anal glands become inflamed, it causes pain, irritation, and—in the worst cases—severe infections. Anal gland problems are one of the most common reasons for visits to the veterinary dermatology clinic.
Background + Scientific Context
In a cross-sectional study, Corbee et al. (2022, Animals, PubMed 35011201) investigated the prevalence of anal gland disorders in dogs: An estimated 15.7% of dogs develop a non-neoplastic anal gland disorder during their lifetime. Risk factors: obesity, small breeds, soft or loose stools, and concomitant allergic skin diseases.
Hvitman-Graflund et al. (2023, Veterinary Dermatology, PubMed 37731183) conducted a retrospective analysis of 190 dogs with anal sac inflammation (sacculitis): standard treatment (irrigation, antimicrobial infusion, and NSAIDs if necessary) resolved 90.6% of the episodes within one week. The risk of recurrence was highest in cases of concurrent atopy or allergic skin disease.
Repasy et al. (2022, Topics in Companion Animal Medicine, PubMed 35792243) describeanal sac adenocarcinoma (AGASACA) as a frequently overlooked malignancy: it is often not visible externally and metastasizes early to regional lymph nodes. Diagnosis requires imaging and fine-needle aspiration.
Vitomalia-Position
Anal gland problems require prompt attention—scooting (sliding along the floor) is not harmless behavior, but rather a symptom with an underlying cause. We advise against routine prophylactic expression of the anal glands without clinical indication: Excessive manual expression can irritate the glandular tissue and increase secretion production in the long term. Veterinary expression is appropriate when clinical signs are present—not as a standard care protocol for asymptomatic dogs.
When do anal glands become important?
- Scooting (wiping or rubbing the floor) — the most common leading symptom
- Intense licking or biting of the anal area
- If there is a fishy or unusual odor with no apparent cause
- If there is visible swelling near the anus (a sign of an abscess)
- If you experience pain when sitting, sitting down, or having a bowel movement
- As a concomitant symptom in cases of known atopy or allergy
- In dogs that are overweight (a risk factor for inadequate natural bowel movements)
Practical application
Stages of anal gland disease:
| Stadium | Condition | Symptoms | Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impaction | Secretion thickened, gland full | Scooting, Licking | Manual emptying |
| Sacculitis (inflammation) | Infection of the gland | Pain, redness, discharge | Rinse + Antibiotics |
| Abscess | Abscess in the gland | Hot, painful swelling | Drainage + Antibiotics |
| Rupture | The abscess bursts | Open perianal wound | Wound care, surgery if necessary |
| Adenocarcinoma | Malignant tumor | Usually asymptomatic for a long time | Surgery, and possibly chemotherapy or radiation therapy |
Recognition: What to Do
If your pet is scooting more than 1–2 times a day for several days in a row: make an appointment with the vet. If there is visible swelling or pain when touching the anal area: seek emergency care immediately—a developing abscess can rupture within days.
An anal gland abscess is a common complication of untreated sacculitis. If the abscess ruptures, professional wound care and drainage by a veterinarian are necessary.
Common Mistakes & Myths
- “Scooting means worms.” Scooting can have many causes—problems with the anal glands are more common than parasitic infestations. Without an examination, it is not possible to determine the cause.
- “I regularly express the anal glands—as a preventive measure.” This is not necessary for dogs without symptoms and can cause irritation. Emptying the glands is only recommended when clinically indicated.
- “Once the scooting stops, everything is fine.” Anal gland infections can recur after initial treatment—especially in dogs with allergies. Treating the underlying cause (e.g., managing atopy) reduces the recurrence rate.
Current State of Research (2026)
Anal gland disorders in dogs are more common than is generally recognized. The link to atopy and allergic skin disease as triggers for recurrence is well established (Hvitman-Graflund et al. 2023). Anal sac adenocarcinoma (AGASACA) is classified as an underestimated malignancy due to its tendency to metastasize early—early diagnosis through regular digital rectal examination by a veterinarian improves the prognosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog slip on the floor?
"Scooting" is the most common symptom of anal gland problems—overfilled, inflamed, or infected glands cause itching and a feeling of pressure. However, worms, allergies, or perianal irritation can also be the underlying cause. A veterinary examination will determine the cause.
Do I need to express my dog's anal glands regularly?
Do not do this as a routine practice. In healthy dogs, the anal glands are emptied naturally during defecation. Preventative expression without medical indication can irritate the glands. Emptying the glands by a veterinarian is only recommended if clinical signs (scooting, pain, swelling) are present.
Can a problem with the anal glands be dangerous?
Yes. Untreated inflammation can lead to abscesses and rupture. Anal sac adenocarcinoma is a serious malignancy that metastasizes to the lymph nodes at an early stage. Early treatment at the first sign of symptoms prevents these complications.
Related terms
Sources & Further Reading
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Corbee, R. J., Woldring, H. H., van den Eijnde, L. M., & Wouters, E. G. H. (2022). A cross-sectional study on canine and feline anal sac disease. Animals, 12(1), 95. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35011201/
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Hvitman-Graflund, K., Sparks, T., & Varjonen, K. (2023). A retrospective study of treatment, outcome, recurrence and concurrent diseases in 190 dogs with anal sacculitis. Veterinary Dermatology, 34(6), 576–585. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37731183/
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Repasy, A. B., Selmic, L. E., & Kisseberth, W. C. (2022). Canine apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma. Topics in Companion Animal Medicine, 49, 100677. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35792243/