This information is not meant to be a substitute for veterinary care. Always follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian. Dogs scoot when their anal sacs are uncomfortable. Anal glands and anal sacs are part of normal canine anatomy. Every canid from wolves to Chihuahuas have them. Anatomy of the anal sacs.

The material secreted into these glands is thick and foul smelling. Most wild animals can empty these glands voluntarily for scent marking or in self-defence like a skunk. The anal sacs of most dogs empty when the dog defecates. There are ways to encourage anal sacs to empty naturally. A non-invasive technique that helps some patients is a change to a high fiber diet. This will produce a bulkier stool that may be more effective in emptying the sac as it passes by. If the sacs need to be emptied every few weeks or more, you may opt to have them permanently removed.

There are several types of anal sac diseases, including impaction, inflammation, and abscessation. Clinical signs are related to discomfort associated with sitting or defecating. Diagnosis is typically made by physical examination, but may require microscopy, ultrasonography, or biopsy. Treatment may include manual expression, antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications, or surgical drainage or removal.

Can you please tell me more? Do you have any advice to offer? The purpose of the glands is to produce a fluid with a strong odor very pungent and fishy smell unique to each dog. Most dogs can also involuntarily express their anal sacks when they are fearful or become stressed. Many dogs will go through their lifetime without any issues with their anal glands.