Some dogs develop blocked, impacted or irritated anal glands. This can occur in dogs of any age or breed, although anal gland problems are often seen more frequently in smaller dogs.
The two anal glands, also known as anal sacs, are located on either side of the anus. They produce a strong-smelling fluid that dogs naturally use for scent marking and recognition.
Normally, the glands empty naturally when a dog passes a bowel movement. If stools are consistently too soft or loose, the glands may not empty completely. Over time, their contents can become thicker and more difficult to pass, potentially contributing to irritation and inflammation.
What Causes Blocked Anal Glands in Dogs?
A number of factors may contribute to anal gland problems, including:
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Soft or loose stools
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Irregular bowel movements
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Insufficient dietary fibre
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Constipation
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Lack of exercise
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Being overweight
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Older age
Healthy, well-formed stools provide natural pressure against the anal glands during bowel movements, helping them empty as part of the normal digestive process.
Natural Ways to Support Healthy Anal Glands
Supporting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements is an important part of a natural approach to anal gland health.
Provide a Natural, Fibre-Rich Diet
A natural diet containing appropriate fibre and roughage can help support healthy bowel function.
Pulped or minced raw vegetables, soaked or sprouted grains, fresh meat and appropriate bones can all contribute to the overall fibre and bulk of the diet.
The ideal diet will vary between individual dogs, so changes should be introduced gradually.
Encourage Regular Exercise
Regular exercise supports healthy digestion and normal bowel movements.
Daily walks, play and other appropriate activity can also help maintain a healthy body weight, which is particularly important for dogs prone to anal gland problems.
Consider Additional Fibre
If your dog tends towards constipation or has soft stools that do not provide enough natural bulk, additional fibre may be useful.
Psyllium husks can be added to the diet to increase fibre and bulk. Always introduce additional fibre gradually and make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water.
Flaxseed oil can also be added to food as part of a balanced diet.
Support Healthy Digestive Flora
Healthy digestion begins with a healthy gut environment.
A suitable probiotic supplement may help support healthy digestive flora and normal digestive function.
Herbal Support for Anal Gland Health
Herbs can be included as part of a broader natural digestive-support program.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds can be soaked in warm water and mixed into food, including the soaking liquid.
Fenugreek provides dietary fibre and is traditionally used to support healthy digestion.
Herbal Anal Gland Support
Herbal Anal Gland Tonic contains a blend of Golden Seal, Astragalus, Red Clover, Dandelion and Calendula.
It can be used as part of a natural approach to supporting healthy anal gland and digestive function.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera juice is traditionally used to support digestive health. If using an aloe vera product for your dog, choose one specifically suitable for internal use and follow the manufacturer's directions.
External Care for Irritated Anal Glands
If the area around the anus is mildly irritated, a warm compress may help soothe the area.
Use a clean cloth with comfortably warm water and gently hold it against the area for a few minutes. The water should be warm rather than hot.
Avoid squeezing or repeatedly manipulating swollen or painful glands at home.
If the glands require expression, it is best to have this performed by someone experienced in the procedure, particularly if your dog is uncomfortable or the contents are difficult to release.
When Should You Seek Veterinary Advice?
Anal gland problems can sometimes progress from simple impaction to significant inflammation or an abscess.
Veterinary attention is recommended if your dog has:
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Significant swelling around the anus
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Severe pain or difficulty sitting
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Bleeding or pus-like discharge
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A wound or ruptured area beside the anus
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A strong, unusual discharge
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Persistent scooting or licking
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Difficulty passing stools
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Signs of being unwell
An abscess or infection may require veterinary treatment and should not be managed solely with dietary or herbal support.
Supporting Healthy Anal Gland Function Naturally
The long-term goal is to support normal bowel function so the anal glands can empty naturally during bowel movements.
A suitable diet, adequate fibre, regular exercise, healthy body weight and good digestive health can all form part of this approach.
Manual expression may provide temporary relief when glands are impacted, but recurring problems are worth investigating rather than simply expressing the glands repeatedly.
If your dog regularly experiences anal gland problems, we can help you review their diet and natural support options.