Should Dogs Have Their Anal Glands Expressed? What Professionals Want Dog Owners to Know

Anal Gland Expression in Dogs: Pros, Cons, and When It’s Actually Needed

Wait a Second… What Are Anal Glands?

Dogs have two small scent glands located on either side of the rectum. These glands produce a strong-smelling fluid that normally empties naturally when a dog has a firm bowel movement.

For many dogs, this process happens automatically and never causes problems. However, some dogs may develop issues such as impaction, inflammation, or infection if the glands do not empty properly.

When this happens, a dog may experience discomfort and show symptoms that indicate their anal glands need attention.

Anal gland expression is one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of dog grooming and veterinary care. While it can provide relief for dogs with specific medical issues, routine expression without a clinical reason may actually create long-term problems.

Below is a balanced look at when anal gland expression helps, and when it can do more harm than good.

Pros of Anal Gland Expression

(When clinically indicated and properly performed)

1. Relieves Immediate Discomfort
Manual expression can help dogs that are actively scooting, licking, or straining due to full or impacted glands.

2. Helps Prevent Infection or Abscess
For dogs with chronic anal sac disease, routine veterinary expression may reduce the risk of painful infections and gland rupture.

3. Provides Short-Term Medical Relief
Veterinary expression and gland flushing can provide rapid relief when combined with antibiotics for anal sac infections (anal sacculitis).

4. May Be Necessary for High-Risk Breeds
Small breeds, brachycephalic dogs (such as Bulldogs, Cavaliers, and Cockapoos), and overweight dogs have higher rates of anal sac disease and sometimes require medical intervention.

Cons of Routine or Unnecessary Expression

(Especially when done without medical need)

1. Can Create Chronic Dependence
Regular expression of healthy glands may weaken natural muscle tone, making dogs less able to empty their glands naturally.

2. Risk of Tissue Damage and Scarring
Frequent or improperly performed expression can cause trauma to the rectal tissue and lead to scar formation, which in severe cases may require surgical gland removal.

3. Irritation From Over-Expression
Veterinarians note that excessive expression may cause inflammation, irritation, and recurring cycles of anal gland problems.

4. External Groomer Expression May Not Fully Empty Glands
External expression (the type typically performed during grooming) may leave some material behind, which can cause symptoms to return quickly.

When Is Anal Gland Expression Actually Needed?

• Scooting on floors
• Persistent licking or chewing at the rear
• Strong fishy odor
• Swelling near the rectum
• Pain while sitting
• Repeated infections

Many dogs never need anal gland expression at all, while others may need occasional or even monthly treatment depending on their anatomy, diet, and stool quality.

Vet-Recommended Alternatives to Routine Expression

• Higher Fiber Diets – Supports firm stool and natural gland emptying
• Weight Management – Reduces pressure on the glands
• Regular Exercise – Supports healthy digestion
• Prescription GI Diets – Used in chronic cases

Who Should Perform Anal Gland Expression?

Veterinarians

• Internal expression
• Diagnosis and treatment of infections
• Gland flushing and medical care

Professional Groomers

• External expression only
• Observation and referral if symptoms are present

The Bottom Line

• Expression is beneficial for dogs who truly need it
• Routine expression of healthy glands can create lifelong problems
• Natural expression through healthy digestion is ideal
• Veterinary evaluation is always the gold standard

Sources & Veterinary References

• AVMA Journal of Veterinary Medicine (2024)
• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
• Royal Veterinary College VetCompass™ Program
• VIN – Veterinary Partner
• PetMD Veterinary Advisory Board
• National Library of Medicine (PMC – 2021, 2022)
  
  
  

---

Important Disclaimer

This article is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every dog is different, and anal gland issues can sometimes indicate underlying medical conditions. If your dog is experiencing pain, swelling, infection, or ongoing discomfort, please consult a licensed veterinarian.

Groomers may perform external anal gland expression when appropriate, but internal expression and treatment of medical conditions should always be performed by a veterinarian.

Penny’s Paw Spa is owned and operated by Lilac City Pet Care LLC. Our team works closely with pet parents and veterinary professionals to support the comfort, hygiene, and wellbeing of the dogs in our care.

Need Help With Your Dog’s Grooming?

If your dog is scooting, uncomfortable, or overdue for a grooming appointment, our team is here to help. At Penny’s Paw Spa we focus on gentle handling, low-stress grooming, and helping dogs feel safe and comfortable during their visit.

Schedule an appointment with us today.

📞 509-426-7758
📍 321 W Hastings Rd. Suite 103, Spokane, WA 99218

Gentle hands. Happy pups. Peace of mind. Because dogs are our people.