07/08/2026
🐶 Did You Know? Most dogs do NOT need their a**l glands expressed.
A**l glands produce a brownish, strong-smelling secretion that plays an important role in canine communication. Dogs naturally use this scent to identify one another (that’s why they sniff each other’s rear ends!) and to mark their territory.
In a healthy dog, these glands empty naturally during bowel movements. They are designed to function on their own.
However, certain medical conditions can prevent the glands from emptying properly, leading to impaction or infection. Repeated manual expression without a medical reason may also irritate the glands and stimulate them to produce even more secretion, potentially increasing the risk of future problems.
Many people believe expressing the a**l glands will make their dog smell better—but that’s a myth. Healthy a**l glands do not need routine emptying simply to reduce odor.
It’s also completely normal for some dogs to release a small amount of a**l gland secretion during moments of fear, stress, or excitement. That temporary odor doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem.
A**l gland expression should only be performed when medically indicated and recommended by a veterinarian after a proper examination. If your pet is scooting, excessively licking the area, showing discomfort, or has a strong persistent odor, schedule a veterinary evaluation to determine the underlying cause and the appropriate treatment.
❤️ When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian. Your pet’s health comes first!
