How to Stimulate a Dog's Anal Glands

Some dogs have them and some dogs don't. A dog's anal glands produce a secretion that is supposed to come out with the a bowel movement, adding to its odor and thereby marking the dog's territory. In the domestic dog, this gland has become vestigial. Sometimes, especially in smaller breeds, it doesn't function properly and needs to be manually stimulated. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Latex or latex-free exam glove
• Paper towel

1. Use an exam glove and a paper towel, folded into a square the size of the palm of your hand.
2. Hold the dog's tail straight up and locate the anal glands on either side of his anus. On a clock, the glands would be at the 4:00 and 8:00 position. Slide your gloved finger up and down the sides of the anus and feel for the hard, oval-shaped glands. If you can't find them, they may have been released. Don't go on to the next step, even if your dog has been licking and scooting.
3. Hold the paper towel in the palm of your gloved hand with your ring and pinkie fingers so that it is against the anal opening. Continue holding the dog's tail straight up with your other hand.
4. Apply gentle pressure to one of the glands with an inward and upward motion, using the thumb and forefinger of your gloved hand. The secretions should come out through the anus.
5. Repeat the process for the other side.

Tips & Warnings

• Blocked anal glands are not the only reason your dog might be scooting across your carpet. If you aren't sure, and especially if it's possible that your dog has worms, check with your veterinarian.
• You might want to have a helper keep the dog's front end occupied.
• Ask your veterinarian for a demonstration if you're having trouble getting the glands to release.
• The secretions are very smelly. Keep your face to the side when trying to express the glands.
• Check with your veterinarian if your dog has any bleeding or large growths, or if the skin appears in any way irritated in the anal area.
• If the glands don't release with gentle pressure, or if you can't locate the glands, stop and check with your veterinarian.