About Dog's Anal Glands
Ever wonder why dogs sniff each others butts when they meet? They are able to sniff out identities by the scent emitted from anal glands.
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Identification
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Anal glands are two small structures located in the dog's anus. The glands are activated whenever a dog defecates. The dog's individual scent accumulates in the glands as stool passes by. It is emitted whenever another dog sniffs the area.
Benefits
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The primary function of anal glands is to provide a calling card for other dogs. The glands emit an individual scent. When a dog defecates, stool passes over the glands and small amounts of the scent attach to the stool. When dogs sniff poop they can identify each other by the scent. When dogs meet, they often lift their tails, causing a small amount of scent to be released. Smelling butts allows dogs to identify each other.
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Prevention/Solution
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Impacted anal glands can be a problem for some dogs. If a dog is scooting across the floor or biting in the tail area, impacted anal glands are most likely the reason. Anal glands become impacted when the brown liquid is not emitted as stool passes over the glands. This can be caused by stool that is too soft. The glands can also abscess or become infected. Abscessed anal glands are painful and require veterinary treatment.
Considerations
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If impacted, anal glands may be expressed (manual release of the scent liquid). Veterinarians, dog groomers and knowledgeable pet owners can express impacted anal glands. They use their fingers to gently push up on the glands, releasing the brown scented liquid. Properly expressed glands release a strong, noxious odor.
Theories/Speculation
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The diet can contribute to impacted anal glands. If the stool is too soft, it will not activate the glands as it passes over, eventually causing impaction. Veterinarians recommend a high fiber diet, often found in premium dog food. The fiber increases the density and bulk of the stool.
Warning
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Abscessed anal glands are infected and must be treated by a veterinarian. If the dog appears to be in pain, a trip to the vet is recommended. Occasionally, the anal gland can rupture, which is a veterinary emergency. If the dog suffers from frequent impactions, the veterinarian may recommend surgical removal of the anal glands.
Before allowing anyone other than a veterinarian to express your dog's anal glands, find out his experience. Improperly expressing anal glands can cause abscessed or ruptured glands.
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