Companion Animals

Dog Anal Gland Expression and Welfare

Routine anal gland expression in dogs without clinical signs is unnecessary and potentially harmful, while addressing underlying causes of impaction improves long-term welfare.

Key Facts

Healthy dogs naturally express anal glands during defecation on firm stools
Routine manual expression by groomers in healthy dogs is not recommended by veterinary guidelines
Fibre-rich diets improve stool consistency and natural gland expression, preventing impaction
Exercise increases natural anal gland expression through movement and voluntary muscle activity
Surgical anal gland removal (sacculectomy) is a welfare improvement for dogs with chronic recurrent impaction

Welfare Considerations

Anal gland welfare is best served by dietary and management approaches that support natural self-expression rather than routine manual intervention. Treating underlying causes prevents chronic recurrence.

What You Can Do

Ensure your dog receives adequate dietary fibre and exercise to support natural gland expression
Request veterinary assessment rather than routine groomer expression if impaction signs occur
Discuss sacculectomy with your vet if your dog has had 3 or more annual impactions