Can You Buy Something to Empty a Dog's Anal Glands?

There isn't a product that empties the anal glands for you. They're normally emptied naturally when a dog passes firm stool. When they don't empty, they're expressed by hand, by a vet, a vet technician or an experienced groomer. Your vet can show you how to do it at home if your dog needs it often.

Common causes of anal gland problems include soft stool or diarrhea, being overweight, allergies, especially food allergies, and small breeds, which have narrower ducts. Signs include scooting, licking the rear, a fishy smell and swelling near the anus.

Adding fiber can help many dogs by making stools bulkier, which helps the glands empty. Ask your vet about a fiber supplement or a higher-fiber food, plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling), and weight loss if needed. A red, swollen or painful area near the anus may be an abscess, which needs a vet visit.

See dog anal gland problems.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.