My dog has a painful, infected bump near her butt. Could it be anal glands?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My dog has what looks like a pimple near her butt. It has happened before and she pops it. It looks infected, but I don't know what it is.
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on September 6th, 2015
Your pet may have an inflamed or infected [anal gland](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/conditions-of-the-anal-glands). [Impacted or abscessed anal glands](https://www.petcoach.co/article/anal-glands-sacs-impactions-infections-abscesses-in-dogs) are very painful and makes it difficult to defecate or even move. Without treatment, an impacted gland may abscess and rupture, causing a open wound on your pet's rear that will require wound care, antibiotics and pain relief. I recommend getting your pet seen by your vet. He or she will express (empty) the anal glands, clean her up and possibly start her on antibiotics and pain medication if indicated. You can ask to be shown how to express the anal glands yourself at home so you can avoid impaction or infection in the future. Increased dietary fiber or supplements, such as [Glandex](), may help prevent anal gland issues as well.
39Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 9th, 2015
If it is located directly beside the anus, he likely has an inflamed or infected anal gland. This condition is very painful and makes it difficult to defecate or even move. Without treatment, the gland may rupture, causing a open wound on your pet's rear that will require wound care and antibiotics as well as some pain relief. I recommend getting your pet seen by your vet. They will determine the cause of the lump, and if it is anal gland infection, they will express the material (which is very smelly), clean him up and possibly start him on antibiotics. You can ask them to show you how to express the anal glands yourself at home so you can avoid impaction or infection in the future.
7Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on April 4th, 2017
These lesions could be a result of ruptured anal gland abscesses. Anal glands are scent glands just inside the rectum that typically empty with bowel movements and "mark" the stool. In some cases, they don't empty normally and can become impacted or infected. Your dog should see her vet for an exam and will likely need to have her anal glands emptied fully, flushed, and started on antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. Until you can get her to the vet, make sure she wears an e-collar (cone) to prevent further licking or damage to this area. If she will tolerate it, you can try a warm compress with a warm wet washcloth over the affected area to help with some discomfort and drainage. Do not give any over the counter pain medications, as these are all toxic to dogs.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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