5 Reasons
Why you should address your dog’s anal gland issues as soon as possible
If you're a dog parent, you probably recognize the signs:
- Scooting across the floor
- Licking obsessively
- Or seeming agitated for no clear reason
At first, you might think, “It’s probably just a bit of itchiness.” But in reality, these are often signs of clogged anal glands. And believe me – it’s not a problem you want to ignore. Here are 5 important reasons why and how you should deal with anal gland issues quickly.
Joy Cleymans
Veterinarian
Swipe to discover reason 1
1
Clogged anal glands are painful
- Dogs can’t tell you they’re in pain
- Scooting is a real sign of suffering
Anal gland problems cause pressure and irritation, especially when sitting, walking, or even pooping. Many dogs try to relieve that pressure by scooting. Dragging their bum across the floor. It might look silly at first, but it’s not a joke. It’s not funny behavior – it’s a clear cry for help. Don't let your dog live with this pain any longer than necessary.
Swipe to discover reason 2
2
The longer you wait, the worse it gets
- Minor signs grow into major problems
- Delaying makes recovery harder
- Risk of rupture and emergency vet visits.
If the glands remain clogged, they can become infected – sometimes forming pus-filled abscesses that can rupture. Not only is this incredibly painful, but it may also require surgical intervention or antibiotics. Early support is key to preventing this.
Swipe to discover reason 3
3
Anal gland issues can affect your dog’s mood and behavior
- May lead to anxiety or loss of playfulness
- Can cause restlessness, irritability, or even aggression
Chronic physical discomfort doesn’t just hurt your dog’s body — it can impact their happiness and personality too. Addressing the problem early helps protect both their health and their well-being.
Swipe to discover reason 4
4
Vet visits are stressful and expensive
- Regular vet trips are stressful
- The cost adds up quickly
- It treats symptoms, not the cause
If you’re taking your dog to the vet every few weeks to manually empty the anal glands, that’s not only costly – it’s stressful for your dog. Manual emptying only removes built-up fluid—it doesn’t fix the soft stools or poor digestion that cause the glands to clog in the first place. It treats the symptom, not the cause. Which leads to a never ending cycle of vet consults.
Swipe to discover reason 5
5
Ignoring gut health means the problem will keep coming back, and more issues will follow
- Soft stools = glands don’t empty.
- Healthy digestion is key to prevention.
- Solve it from the inside out.
Many don’t realize: firm stool naturally empties the anal glands. Soft stool, often caused by poor digestion, doesn’t create enough pressure—so the glands stay clogged. If the gut isn’t healthy, the problem keeps coming back and can lead to more issues. That’s why gut health should be your first focus when you see your dog scooting.
What can you do to help your dog
3 steps to relieve your dog's pain
If your dog has swelling, or shows clear signs of infection, always consult your vet first. For mild or recurring issues, these natural steps can make a big difference
- Add more natural fiber to their diet
- Help their gut with pre- and probiotics
- Build a daily routine that supports balance
Fiber helps firm up your dog’s stool, creating the natural pressure needed to empty the anal glands. Pre- and probiotics support a healthy gut microbiome, improving digestion and nutrient absorption — which leads to more consistent, healthier poops. A daily routine keeps your dog’s system balanced and helps prevent future flare-ups.
Start resolving the issues today
A scientifically proven formula in a tasty cookie
Daily digestive support makes all the difference. Sticking to a routine isn’t always easy. Our Digestion Boost takes the pressure off — no pills, no fuss, just a tasty snack that fits into daily life, natural support from within.
- Tasty supplement cookies
- Developed to relieve anal glands pain
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Scroll if you want more tips
Our vets have put together a free guide with 10 expert tips to help you:
- Prevent health issues before they start
- Save on unnecessary vet bills
- Improve your dog’s health and wellbeing
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FAQ
Scooting is often a sign that your dog’s anal glands are full, irritated, or blocked. It’s their way of trying to relieve discomfort or pressure in that area.
The most common causes are soft stools, poor digestion, food sensitivities, or lack of fiber. Without firm stool, the glands don’t empty naturally, which can lead to buildup and inflammation.
Look for signs like swelling near the anus, redness, pain when sitting, a strong fishy odor, or if your dog yelps or licks excessively. Always contact your vet if you suspect an infection.
They can! Supplements that support digestion — especially those with fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics — can help firm up stool and improve gut health, reducing the chances of recurring issues.
Anal Gland Inflammation in Dogs
Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
In this article, you'll discover how to recognize anal gland problems, what causes them and what steps you can take to keep your dog healthy and comfortable.
