Anal Gland Symptoms in Dogs: Signs of Impaction, Infection and Abscess

Signs Your Dog Needs Its Anal Glands Expressed

• Scooting: dragging the bottom along the floor or grass.^1,2
• Licking or biting under the tail, at the tail base or on the back of the thighs.^2,1
• A fishy smell, or fluid leaking when the dog is relaxed or frightened.
• Discomfort: reluctance to sit, turning to look at the rear, or pain when the tail is lifted.²
• Straining or pain when pooping.¹

These signs don't tell you whether the problem is a simple impaction or an infection. A vet can feel the sacs and look at the fluid: normal fluid is thin and pale yellow to straw-colored, while infected fluid may be thick, red, yellowish-green, bloody or pus-like.^7,5

Signs of an Anal Gland Abscess

An abscess is a sac filled with pus. It forms a red or discolored, hot, very painful swelling to one side of the anus, and the dog may be lethargic or feverish.^2,1,7 Abscesses can burst through the skin, leaving a hole that drains bloody or greenish-yellow pus.² A burst abscess looks alarming but is usually treatable. Keep the area clean and see a vet the same day.^2,7

Signs of Anal Sac Cancer

Anal sac tumors are most common in dogs around 10 years old, especially spaniels.^8,9 Unlike impaction, they're usually not painful early on.¹⁰ Signs can include:

• A firm lump or swelling beside the anus that doesn't go down after expression^10,8
• Straining, constipation, blood in the stool or a change in stool shape^8,6
• Drinking and urinating much more than usual, caused by high blood calcium⁸
• Poor appetite, weight loss or weakness in advanced cases

Many dogs show none of these, so a rectal exam during yearly checkups is the best way to find tumors early.^6,11 See anal sac cancer.

Other Causes of Scooting and Rear-End Licking

• Allergies: food and environmental allergies often make the skin around the anus itchy.^12,5 See allergies in dogs.
• Tapeworms: segments around the anus can cause itching. See tapeworms in dogs.
• Diarrhea, which can irritate the skin and is also linked to anal sac problems.¹² See diarrhea in dogs.
• Matted or soiled hair, grass seeds, or skin infection around the anus.

When to See a Vet

Book a visit if scooting or licking lasts more than a day or two, or keeps coming back. Go the same day for swelling, a draining sore, painful straining or a dog that seems unwell.^2,1 An older dog that is drinking much more than usual or has a new lump near the anus should also be checked promptly.^8,2 For treatment options, see anal gland treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my dog needs its anal glands expressed?

Scooting, licking under the tail, a fishy smell and discomfort when sitting are the usual signs. A vet can confirm it by feeling the sacs.

Why does my dog smell like fish?

Anal sac fluid has a strong fishy smell. Leaking or full sacs are a common cause, though dental and skin problems can also cause odors.

Is dog scooting always the anal glands?

No. Allergies, tapeworms, diarrhea and skin irritation can also cause scooting.

What does an anal gland abscess look like?

A red or discolored, hot, painful swelling beside the anus. It may burst and drain bloody or yellow-green pus.

Is an anal gland abscess an emergency?

It needs a vet the same day because it's very painful and infected, but most dogs recover well with treatment.

Can anal gland problems cause a dog to strain when pooping?

Yes. Full, infected or abscessed sacs can make pooping painful, and tumors can narrow the passage.

What are the signs of anal gland cancer in dogs?

A firm lump near the anus, straining, changes in stool shape, or heavy thirst and urination. Many dogs have no signs.