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Canine Anal Glands and Sacs

Impaction and Expression

The best way to take care of this problem is to empty the glands yourself or have a dog health professional express the glands. It is easy to do, just messy and smelly. Instructions for Emptying Dog Anal Glands We suggest you do this in the bathtub to avoid messes in the home and so that you can give your dog a quick bath to wash off any liquid that may fall on her coat. You might also want to wear latex kitchen gloves to keep the smelly, possibly infected fluid off your hands.


1. With one hand lift your dog's tail.

2. In the other hand hold a tissue or paper towel and using your thumb and forefinger apply light pressure to each gland pressing inward toward the opening of the anus.

3. Don't push hard if you don't see any fluid. Try a second time and if you don't see anything see your veterinarian for help. You could also put your finger partly inside the anus and then push on the gland with a finger.