Comfortable content dog at home - anal gland health for dogs
on August 19, 2026

Anal Gland Health for Dogs: Causes, Signs, and Natural Support

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If you've noticed your dog scooting across the carpet, licking excessively at their rear, or catching an unpleasant smell you can't quite place, there's a good chance their anal glands are behind it. It's one of the most common — and most misunderstood — issues UK dog owners deal with. Here's what's actually going on, and what genuinely helps.

What Are Anal Glands?

Anal glands (also called anal sacs) are two small glands located on either side of your dog's anus. They naturally release a scent-marking fluid, usually during bowel movements, which is part of how dogs identify each other. In a healthy dog, this happens automatically and you'd never notice it.

Problems arise when the glands don't empty properly on their own — the fluid builds up, thickens, and becomes uncomfortable or, in more serious cases, impacted or infected.

Signs of Anal Gland Issues

  • Scooting (dragging their bottom along the ground or carpet)
  • Excessive licking or biting at the base of the tail or rear
  • A strong, fishy odour
  • Visible swelling or redness near the anus
  • Difficulty or discomfort sitting
  • Straining during bowel movements

If you notice swelling, bleeding, or a dog who seems genuinely distressed rather than just mildly irritated, this needs a vet visit, not home management — it could indicate an impacted or infected gland that needs professional treatment.

What Causes Anal Gland Problems?

  • Soft or inconsistent stools — firm stool naturally applies pressure that helps empty the glands during a bowel movement; soft stool often doesn't
  • Overweight or low activity levels — can affect how efficiently the glands empty
  • Breed and individual anatomy — some dogs, particularly smaller breeds, are simply more prone to gland issues
  • Low-fibre diets — insufficient fibre means less bulk in the stool, reducing the natural pressure needed for the glands to express themselves

The Role of Diet and Digestion

This is where a lot of owners are surprised: anal gland health is closely tied to digestive health, not something separate from it. Firm, well-formed stools are one of the best natural ways to help the glands empty on their own during normal bowel movements. That means fibre and healthy digestion are genuinely relevant here, not just for "tummy" issues.

Natural Ways to Support Anal Gland Health

  • Add fibre. Pumpkin is one of the most owner-recommended natural additions — it helps bulk and firm stool, supporting natural gland expression.
  • Support digestive enzymes. Enzymes that aid the breakdown of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates can support more consistent, well-formed stools.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Regular exercise and appropriate portion sizes help keep things moving as they should.
  • Stay consistent with diet. Sudden food changes can affect stool consistency, which in turn affects gland expression.

What's in Our No Scoot Formula

Our No Scoot Chews are built directly around this diet-digestion connection. The formula includes Pumpkin Powder and Vita Fiber for natural fibre support, alongside a digestive enzyme blend — Amylase, Protease, Lipase, Lactase, and Bromelain — to support healthy digestion and more consistent stool quality. Rather than treating the symptom in isolation, the formula is built to support the underlying digestive process that helps the glands do their job naturally.

When to See Your Vet

Occasional mild scooting that resolves with dietary support is common and usually nothing serious. However, please see your vet if:

  • Scooting persists despite dietary changes
  • You notice swelling, discharge, blood, or a strong odour that's getting worse
  • Your dog seems to be in pain or is unusually distressed
  • This is a recurring issue happening frequently

Vets can manually express impacted glands when needed, and can check for infection or, in rare cases, more serious underlying issues. Natural dietary support works well as an ongoing, preventative approach — it isn't a substitute for veterinary treatment when a gland is already impacted or infected.

Anal gland discomfort is uncomfortable for your dog and often stressful to watch as an owner — but for most dogs, it's genuinely manageable with the right dietary support and a bit of consistency.