Dog Anal Gland Expression
Q: This is probably a very an unusual question but it has become a problem. My two and-a-half year old small mix-breed dog’s anal gland is continually expressing on its own at home.
A: Generally speaking, a dog’s anal sacs or anal glands will be “expressed” anytime that animal defecates. However, there are instances when a dog, either out of excitement, fear, stress, or even perhaps, due to the presence of a parasite burden in the gastrointestinal tract, will express its anal sacs when not defecating – excitement at seeing a family member or a stressed filled visit to the vet. From what you described – regular expression or emptying of his sacs every 5 weeks by your groomer, with visits to your veterinarian in between, is unusual in its frequency, especially if your pet is having regular and firm bowel movements.
Credit: Reviewed by Dr. Amy I. Attas