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What to do when the anal gland in the dog keeps getting blocked?

Hello dear dog lovers! It's no secret that our four-legged friends can occasionally have health problems. A common issue some dog owners face is a blocked anal gland. Don't worry, there are ways to deal with it! In this blog post, we'll take a look at what you can do when your dog's anal gland keeps getting blocked.

anal gland in the dog

What are the anal glands in dogs?

The anal glands, also known as anal sacs or anal pouches, are two small glands located on both sides of a dog's anus, roughly at the four and eight o'clock positions. They play a vital role in a dog's communication system and also serve a protective function.

Function of the anal glands

These glands produce an oily, foul-smelling fluid that dogs use for marking their territory and communicating with other dogs. When a dog defecates, a small drop of this fluid is released, conveying information about the age, gender, and emotional state of the dog. This way, other dogs can learn a lot about their fellow canine by sniffing their feces.

Issues with anal glands

Unfortunately, dogs can also experience problems with their anal glands. If they are not regularly emptied, they can become blocked and inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, and, in some cases, abscesses. Some signs of anal gland issues include scooting on the floor with their rear, licking or biting the anal area, and visible swelling or redness around the anus.

Regularly emptying the anal glands can help prevent such problems. This can be done by a veterinarian or an experienced dog owner. There are also special dietary supplements that can help regulate stool consistency and promote natural emptying of the anal glands.

Why do anal glands become blocked?

  • Natural function: Anal glands produce an oily fluid that helps ease bowel movements and serves as a marking scent.
  • Possible causes of blockages: Soft stool, allergies, infections, or genetic predispositions can lead to recurrent blockages.

Symptoms of a blocked anal gland

  • Scooting on the floor ("scooting")
  • Excessive licking or biting in the anal area
  • Visible swelling or redness around the anus
  • Distinct, unpleasant odor

What can you do?

  • Regular check-ups
  • Regularly inspect your dog's anal area for signs of swelling or redness.
  • During regular veterinary visits, the vet can check the glands and empty them if necessary.

Nutritional optimization

  • Feed your dog high-quality food to promote firm stools.
Food set for anal gland inflammation
  • Probiotics and fiber can help regulate bowel movements.
Gastro Activa powder for dogs

Hygiene

  • Keep your dog's anal area clean and dry.
  • Gently dry the area after a bath or a walk in the rain.

When should you go to the veterinarian?

  • If the symptoms persist or worsen.
  • In case of signs of infection, such as pus or blood.
  • If your dog appears to be in pain.

Our Conclusion - Final Thoughts

It is essential to understand that a blocked anal gland can be uncomfortable for your dog but can be effectively treated with proper care and attention. If you feel unsure, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian. We all want our furry companions to feel well. A little tip: Bellfor Anal Gland Ointment can be a great help in such cases. Additionally, Bellfor offers "Gastro Activia," a product containing probiotics that can support your dog's digestive health. Stay vigilant and care for your four-legged friend with love.

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Ribs can be felt beneath low fat cover, visible waist from above, visible elevation of the abdominal line in front of the pelvis from the side.

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Dog food should not contain the following
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