Anal gland disease in dogs

Anal gland disease in dogs

By
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Reviewed by Dr. Valter Carlos
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Overview

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Home treatment

Recommended Products

Prevention

When to worry

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Anal gland disease in dogs

Anal gland disease in dogs

By
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Reviewed by Dr. Valter Carlos
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Anal gland disease in dogs is a common problem that affects any age, breed, or sex. If caught early, it can be quick and simple to treat.

All dogs have two small sacs on the inside of the anus called the anal glands. Their normal function is to release a few drops of liquid into the stools to give them a distinctive smell. This is most likely a way to mark their territory.

Position of the anal glands in dogs
Position of the anal glands in dogs

If the glands don’t empty when your dog passes stools, then they fill up with secretion. This causes irritation, and they will usually need emptying. The most common causes of anal gland problems are diarrhoea and poor nutrition.

What is anal gland disease in dogs? >What is anal gland disease in dogs? [Overview

Symptoms of anal gland disease in dogs >Symptoms of anal gland disease in dogs [Symptoms

Are some dogs at greater risk of anal gland disease than others?>Are some dogs at greater risk of anal gland disease than others?[Risk

How is anal gland disease diagnosed in dogs? >How is anal gland disease diagnosed in dogs? [Diagnosis

What’s the treatment for anal gland disease in dogs? >What’s the treatment for anal gland disease in dogs? [Vet treatment

How to look after a dog with anal gland disease at home >How to look after a dog with anal gland disease at home [Home treatment

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Tips on how to prevent anal gland problems in dogs >Tips on how to prevent anal gland problems in dogs [Prevention

When you should be worried about anal gland disease in dogs

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