Could Diet or Marrow Bones Cause Anal Gland Problems?
He eats orijen dog food. He also has hamburger, or chicken breast and marrow bones to chew on.
Could the be the cause of the problem?
Hope I didn't cause this to happen to him and if it is the cause I will stop the additional food and stick the the orijen. Are the marrow bones ok?
thanks for your help.
You didn't cause this. Anal gland problems are common and usually there's no single obvious cause; German Shepherds actually had lower odds of anal gland problems than crossbred dogs in a large UK study. However, German Shepherds are prone to a different condition, perianal fistulas (draining tracts around the anus), which can look similar, so ask your vet whether that has been ruled out. Soft stools from rich food or diet changes can make it harder for the glands to empty, so if the extras give him loose stools, cutting back may help.
Marrow bones carry their own risks, including broken teeth, bone fragments in the gut and constipation, and the rich marrow can cause loose stools, so many vets advise against them. A sturdy chew toy is safer. If problems recur, your vet may suggest adding fiber.
See dog anal glands.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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