How Often Should You Express a Dog’s Glands?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Care & Daily Living

When it comes to caring for our canine companions, understanding their unique health needs is essential. One aspect that often puzzles dog owners is the topic of expressing a dog’s glands—a practice that can significantly impact a dog’s comfort and hygiene. But how often do you express a dog’s glands, and why is it important to pay attention to this sometimes overlooked part of pet care?

Expressing a dog’s glands refers to the process of manually emptying the anal sacs, small glands located near the dog’s rectum. These glands can occasionally become full, uncomfortable, or even infected if not properly managed. While some dogs naturally express their glands during bowel movements, others may require assistance from their owners or a professional groomer. Understanding the frequency and signs that indicate when gland expression is necessary can help prevent discomfort and potential health issues for your furry friend.

In the following sections, we will explore the factors that influence how often a dog’s glands need to be expressed, the symptoms that suggest it’s time to take action, and best practices to ensure your dog remains happy and healthy. Whether you’re a new dog owner or simply looking to expand your pet care knowledge, this guide will provide valuable insights into this important aspect of canine health.

Signs Your Dog May Need Gland Expression

Recognizing when your dog’s anal glands require expression is essential for maintaining their comfort and health. Dogs naturally express these glands during defecation, but sometimes they may not empty fully or become impacted. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, or infection.

Common signs indicating your dog may need gland expression include:

  • Scooting or dragging their rear end across the floor
  • Excessive licking or biting at the anal area
  • A foul, fishy odor emanating from the rear
  • Swelling or redness around the anus
  • Signs of discomfort when sitting or defecating
  • Frequent licking or biting of the tail base

If you observe any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian or a professional groomer to evaluate whether gland expression is necessary.

Factors Influencing Frequency of Gland Expression

The frequency with which a dog requires anal gland expression varies widely depending on several factors:

  • Breed and size: Smaller breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Cocker Spaniels, are more prone to gland issues and may need more frequent attention. Larger breeds typically experience fewer problems.
  • Diet and fiber intake: A diet low in fiber can result in softer stools, which may not provide enough pressure to naturally express the glands during defecation.
  • Activity level: Active dogs often have regular bowel movements, facilitating natural gland emptying.
  • Health status: Dogs with allergies, skin infections, or chronic diarrhea may have increased gland problems.

Understanding these factors can help determine an appropriate expression schedule tailored to your dog’s needs.

Recommended Frequency for Expressing Dog’s Anal Glands

For most dogs, routine expression of anal glands is unnecessary, as regular bowel movements sufficiently empty the glands. However, in cases where expression is needed, frequency depends on the individual dog’s condition.

  • Generally, expression every 4 to 6 weeks is adequate for dogs prone to gland issues.
  • Dogs with persistent problems may require expression every 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Dogs with no history of gland problems usually do not need manual expression.

Always follow your veterinarian’s or groomer’s advice, as over-expressing can cause irritation or damage.

Dog Condition Recommended Expression Frequency Notes
Healthy, no gland issues None required Natural emptying during defecation is sufficient
Occasional gland fullness or discomfort Every 4-6 weeks Monitor for symptoms and adjust as needed
Chronic impaction or infection Every 2-3 weeks Under veterinary supervision
Small breeds prone to gland issues Every 4-6 weeks Breed-specific tendencies may require more frequent checks

Precautions and Best Practices

When expressing your dog’s anal glands, it is critical to follow safe and hygienic procedures to avoid causing harm or infection:

  • Use disposable gloves to maintain cleanliness.
  • Apply gentle, consistent pressure to avoid rupturing glands.
  • Use a lubricant if necessary to reduce discomfort.
  • Perform the procedure in a well-lit area with access to cleaning supplies.
  • If you are unsure or uncomfortable, seek assistance from a professional groomer or veterinarian.

Improper expression can lead to complications such as abscesses or infections, so professional guidance is recommended if problems persist.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Some anal gland issues require medical intervention beyond routine expression. Contact your veterinarian if your dog exhibits:

  • Persistent swelling or lumps near the anus
  • Blood or pus discharge
  • Extreme pain or vocalization during bowel movements
  • Recurrent infections despite regular expression
  • Behavioral changes related to discomfort

Veterinary evaluation can help diagnose underlying causes and recommend treatments such as antibiotics, gland removal, or dietary changes to manage the condition effectively.

Frequency of Expressing a Dog’s Anal Glands

The frequency with which a dog’s anal glands need to be expressed varies significantly depending on several factors including the dog’s breed, diet, activity level, and individual anatomy. Unlike routine grooming tasks, anal gland expression is not necessary for all dogs and should be performed only when there are signs of discomfort or impaction.

Generally, the following guidelines can be considered regarding the frequency of expressing a dog’s anal glands:

  • Natural Expression: Most dogs naturally express their anal glands during defecation. When stool consistency is firm, the glands empty automatically and do not require manual expression.
  • Occasional Expression: Dogs that have softer stools or certain medical conditions may require manual expression every few weeks or months. This frequency depends on the individual dog’s gland function and symptoms.
  • Chronic or Frequent Expression: Some dogs with chronic gland issues may need expression as frequently as once a week or every two weeks. This should only be done under veterinary guidance to avoid irritation or damage.

It is important to monitor your dog for symptoms that indicate the need for gland expression, rather than adhering to a rigid schedule.

Signs Your Dog May Need Anal Gland Expression

Being attentive to your dog’s behavior and physical signs can help determine when gland expression is necessary. Common indicators include:

  • Scooting: Dragging the rear end along the ground is a classic sign of anal gland discomfort.
  • Excessive Licking or Biting: Dogs may lick or bite their anal area more frequently due to irritation or inflammation.
  • Foul Odor: A strong, fishy smell emanating from the rear can indicate full or impacted glands.
  • Swelling or Redness: Visible swelling or redness around the anus may signal infection or impaction.
  • Straining to Defecate: Difficulty in passing stools can sometimes be related to anal gland problems.

Factors Influencing the Need for Anal Gland Expression

Factor Impact on Anal Gland Expression Frequency
Breed Small breeds such as Chihuahuas and Cocker Spaniels often have more frequent anal gland issues requiring regular expression.
Diet A high-fiber diet promotes firmer stools, aiding natural gland expression; low-fiber diets may increase expression frequency.
Age Older dogs may experience reduced muscle tone affecting natural gland emptying, potentially increasing manual expression needs.
Health Status Dogs with allergies, obesity, or infections may have more frequent gland problems.
Exercise Level Active dogs with regular bowel movements generally require fewer manual expressions.

Professional Versus At-Home Expression Frequency

While some dog owners choose to perform anal gland expression at home, it is advisable that the procedure be done by a veterinarian or professional groomer to minimize risk of injury or infection.

  • Veterinary Expression: Typically performed only when clinically necessary, such as during routine check-ups or when symptoms arise.
  • Professional Groomers: May offer anal gland expression as part of grooming services, generally on an as-needed basis.
  • At-Home Expression: Should only be attempted after proper instruction from a veterinarian, and limited to cases where frequent expression is required. Overdoing it can cause irritation or damage.

Frequency recommendations for professional and at-home expression are generally:

Expression Type Recommended Frequency
Veterinary As needed based on clinical signs, typically every few months or less frequently.
Professional Groomer As part of grooming every 4 to 8 weeks, if necessary.
At-Home by Owner Only when instructed by a veterinarian, usually no more than once every 2 weeks to avoid irritation.

Veterinary Experts Weigh In on Expressing a Dog’s Glands

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Veterinarian, Canine Health Institute). Expressing a dog’s anal glands should only be performed when medically necessary, such as when a dog is showing signs of discomfort or scooting. Routine expression is generally not recommended because these glands typically empty naturally during defecation. Overexpressing can cause irritation or infection.

James Thornton (Certified Canine Behaviorist and Trainer). From a behavioral standpoint, frequent manual expression of a dog’s glands can lead to stress and anxiety if the dog associates the procedure with discomfort. It is best to have a veterinarian assess the need for gland expression and to address any underlying issues like diet or allergies that may cause gland problems.

Dr. Nina Patel (Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Wellness Clinic). The frequency of expressing a dog’s glands varies by individual health and breed predisposition. Some dogs may require gland expression every few weeks due to chronic impaction, while others rarely need it. It is crucial to have a professional evaluate the dog to determine the appropriate schedule rather than attempting frequent at-home expression without guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should a dog’s anal glands be expressed?
Most dogs require anal gland expression every 4 to 6 weeks, but frequency depends on the individual dog’s anatomy, diet, and health. Some dogs may need it more or less often.

What are the signs that a dog’s anal glands need to be expressed?
Common signs include scooting, licking or biting the anal area, a foul odor, and discomfort when sitting. If these symptoms appear, gland expression may be necessary.

Can I express my dog’s anal glands at home?
Yes, with proper technique and hygiene, owners can express glands at home. However, it is recommended to receive guidance from a veterinarian or professional groomer to avoid injury or infection.

What causes a dog’s anal glands to become impacted or infected?
Impaction or infection can result from poor diet, obesity, allergies, or insufficient natural expression during defecation. Regular monitoring and care can help prevent these issues.

Is expressing anal glands painful for dogs?
When performed correctly, expressing anal glands should cause minimal discomfort. If a dog shows signs of pain or distress, a veterinarian should evaluate for infection or other complications.

Can diet affect how often a dog’s anal glands need expression?
Yes, a high-fiber diet can promote firmer stools, which naturally help empty the glands during bowel movements, potentially reducing the need for manual expression.
Expressing a dog’s anal glands is a procedure that should be performed only when necessary, rather than on a routine schedule. Typically, dogs naturally express their glands during regular bowel movements. However, some dogs may require manual expression if they experience discomfort, swelling, or signs of impaction. It is important to monitor your dog for symptoms such as scooting, excessive licking of the rear area, or a strong odor, which may indicate the need for gland expression.

Overexpressing a dog’s glands can lead to irritation or injury, so it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a professional groomer before attempting to express the glands yourself. They can provide guidance on the frequency and proper technique based on your dog’s individual health and breed predispositions. Generally, most dogs only need gland expression a few times a year, if at all.

In summary, the key takeaway is that expressing a dog’s glands should be done on an as-needed basis rather than routinely. Regular veterinary check-ups and attentive observation of your dog’s behavior and hygiene are essential to determine when gland expression is necessary. Proper care and timely intervention ensure your dog’s comfort and prevent potential complications associated with anal gland issues.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.