How Often Should You Express Your Dog’s Glands?

Proper pet care goes beyond feeding and exercise—it also involves understanding the unique needs of your dog’s body. One area that often puzzles dog owners is the maintenance of their dog’s anal glands. Knowing how often to express dog glands is essential for keeping your furry friend comfortable and preventing potential health issues.

Many dogs naturally express their anal glands during bowel movements, but some may require additional attention. The frequency with which these glands need to be expressed can vary widely depending on factors like breed, diet, and individual health. Understanding the signs that indicate when your dog’s glands need care is crucial for timely intervention.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of expressing dog glands, the factors influencing how often this should be done, and tips for safely managing this aspect of your dog’s hygiene. Whether you’re a new dog owner or looking to refine your pet care routine, gaining insight into this topic will help ensure your dog stays happy and healthy.

Signs Your Dog May Need Gland Expression

Recognizing when your dog’s anal glands require expression is crucial for their comfort and health. Not all dogs need regular gland expression; some naturally empty their glands during defecation. However, certain signs indicate a need for manual intervention:

• Scooting: Dragging the rear end across the floor is a common sign of discomfort caused by full or impacted anal glands.
• Excessive licking or biting: Dogs may repeatedly lick or bite around the anus due to irritation or inflammation.
• Foul odor: A strong, fishy smell emanating from your dog’s rear end can indicate gland secretion leakage or infection.
• Swelling or redness: Visible swelling or redness near the anus may suggest impacted or infected glands.
• Discomfort or pain: Signs of pain when sitting, defecating, or when the area is touched can indicate gland issues.

If you observe any of these signs, consult your veterinarian to determine if your dog’s glands need to be expressed.

Factors Influencing Expression Frequency

The frequency with which you need to express your dog’s anal glands depends on several factors, including breed, diet, activity level, and individual anatomy.

• Breed predisposition: Small breeds such as Chihuahuas, Cocker Spaniels, and Dachshunds are more prone to anal gland problems.
• Dietary fiber: A diet low in fiber can result in softer stools, which may not exert enough pressure to naturally empty the glands.
• Activity level: Dogs that are less active may experience slower gland emptying.
• Health conditions: Chronic diarrhea, obesity, or skin allergies may contribute to gland issues.

Typically, dogs with recurrent problems may require expression anywhere from every few weeks to every few months, while others may never need it.

Recommended Expression Frequency

Most dogs do not require routine anal gland expression. When necessary, the following guidelines can help:

Dog Type	Typical Expression Frequency	Notes
Healthy adult dogs	Rarely or never	Glands usually empty naturally during defecation
Dogs prone to impaction	Every 4-6 weeks	Depends on individual symptoms and vet advice
Small breeds with chronic issues	Every 2-4 weeks	Requires monitoring and potential veterinary intervention
Puppies	Rarely	Glands usually develop fully as they mature

If you are expressing the glands at home, do so only as frequently as necessary to avoid irritation or injury. Overexpression can cause inflammation, making the problem worse.

When to Seek Veterinary Assistance

While some pet owners choose to express glands at home, veterinary care is recommended if you notice:

• Persistent scooting or discomfort despite home care.
• Signs of infection such as swelling, redness, pus, or bleeding.
• Recurrent gland impactions or abscesses.
• Your dog shows pain or distress during expression attempts.

Veterinarians can perform a thorough examination, express glands safely, and provide treatment options including antibiotics or dietary changes if infection or chronic issues are present.

Maintaining Anal Gland Health

Prevention and maintenance can reduce the need for frequent gland expression:

• Balanced diet: Ensure your dog’s diet contains adequate fiber to promote firm stools, which help naturally empty the glands.
• Regular exercise: Activity encourages normal bowel movements and gland function.
• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on glands.
• Routine checks: During grooming or vet visits, have the anal area inspected for any abnormalities.

By combining good nutrition, exercise, and regular monitoring, many dogs maintain healthy anal glands without frequent manual expression.

Determining the Frequency of Expressing Dog Anal Glands

The frequency at which a dog’s anal glands need to be expressed varies widely depending on individual health, diet, breed, and lifestyle factors. Anal glands, located on either side of the dog’s anus, naturally secrete fluid that aids in marking territory and communication. However, when these glands do not empty properly, they can cause discomfort, infection, or impaction.

Most dogs do not require regular expression of their anal glands if they have a healthy diet and normal bowel movements. Typically, the anal glands express naturally during defecation as firm stool applies pressure to the glands. However, some dogs may need manual expression more frequently due to various reasons.

Factors Influencing Expression Frequency

• Diet and Stool Consistency: Dogs with soft or loose stools may not apply enough pressure to empty the glands naturally, increasing the need for manual expression.
• Breed Predisposition: Small breeds such as Chihuahuas, Cocker Spaniels, and Dachshunds tend to have more frequent anal gland issues.
• Age and Health Conditions: Older dogs or those with chronic diarrhea, obesity, or allergies may experience more frequent gland problems.
• Activity Level: Sedentary dogs may have less natural gland emptying due to reduced bowel motility.

Recommended Expression Frequency

Dog Condition	Typical Expression Frequency	Notes
Healthy dogs with firm stools	Rarely or never	Natural expression usually sufficient
Dogs with occasional gland fullness	Every 4 to 6 weeks	Monitor for signs of discomfort or scooting
Dogs prone to impaction or chronic issues	Every 2 to 4 weeks	Regular veterinary or professional grooming assistance recommended
Dogs with infections or abscesses	As directed by veterinarian	Medical treatment required before expression

Signs That Indicate a Need for Gland Expression

• Scooting: Dragging the rear end on the floor is a common indicator of anal gland discomfort.
• Excessive licking or biting: Focused on the anal area.
• Foul odor: A strong, fishy smell emanating from the rear.
• Swelling or redness: Around the anus or on the glands themselves.
• Difficulty defecating or signs of pain: May indicate impacted or infected glands.

Best Practices for Expressing Dog Glands

• Consult a veterinarian or professional groomer for initial guidance to avoid injury or infection.
• Use gloves and gentle pressure to avoid causing pain or rupturing the glands.
• Maintain hygiene by cleaning the area before and after expression.
• Monitor your dog closely after expression for any adverse reactions.
• Adjust frequency based on your dog’s response and any veterinary recommendations.

Expert Guidance on How Often to Express Dog Glands

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinarian, Canine Health Clinic). Proper frequency for expressing a dog’s anal glands varies depending on the individual dog’s health and breed predisposition. Generally, dogs should have their glands checked every 4 to 6 weeks, but only expressed as needed to avoid irritation or infection. Routine veterinary evaluations help determine the optimal schedule for each pet.

Jason Miller (Certified Canine Behaviorist and Groomer). For most dogs, expressing anal glands is not a frequent necessity and should only be done when signs of discomfort, scooting, or odor appear. Overexpressing can cause inflammation, so I recommend monitoring your dog’s behavior and consulting a professional groomer or vet before establishing a regular expression routine.

Dr. Laura Chen (Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Wellness Center). In cases where dogs suffer from chronic anal gland issues, such as impaction or infection, expressing glands every 3 to 4 weeks may be required under veterinary supervision. However, for healthy dogs, spontaneous natural emptying during defecation is usually sufficient, and unnecessary expression can lead to complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I express my dog’s anal glands?
Most dogs require gland expression every 4 to 6 weeks, but frequency varies depending on the individual dog’s health, breed, and diet.

What signs indicate my dog needs their glands expressed?
Common signs include scooting, licking or biting the anal area, discomfort when sitting, and a strong, fishy odor.

Can I express my dog’s glands at home safely?
Yes, with proper technique and hygiene, owners can express glands at home, but it is recommended to receive professional guidance initially.

What risks are associated with frequent gland expression?
Overly frequent expression can cause irritation, inflammation, or infection of the anal glands.

When should I consult a veterinarian about my dog’s anal glands?
If your dog shows persistent discomfort, swelling, bleeding, or if gland expression does not relieve symptoms, seek veterinary advice promptly.

Does diet affect the frequency of anal gland expression?
Yes, a high-fiber diet can promote firmer stools, which naturally help express anal glands and may reduce the need for manual expression.
Expressing a dog’s anal glands is a procedure that should be approached with caution and performed only when necessary. Typically, healthy dogs naturally express their glands during regular bowel movements, and routine manual expression is not required. Overexpressing or unnecessary manipulation can lead to irritation, infection, or other complications, so it is essential to monitor your dog’s behavior and consult a veterinarian if you notice signs of discomfort, scooting, or frequent licking of the anal area.

The frequency of expressing dog glands varies depending on the individual dog’s health, diet, and anatomy. Some dogs may require gland expression every few weeks or months, while others may never need it. A professional assessment by a veterinarian or a trained groomer is the best way to determine if and when your dog’s glands need to be expressed. Regular check-ups can help identify any underlying issues early and prevent more serious problems from developing.

In summary, the key takeaway is that expressing dog glands should not be a routine or frequent practice unless recommended by a veterinary professional. Proper diet, hydration, and regular veterinary care are critical factors in maintaining healthy anal gland function. Owners should remain vigilant for symptoms indicating gland discomfort and seek expert advice to ensure their dog’s well-being and comfort.

Author Profile

Robert Kemmer

Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.