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My dog expressed anal glands on bed, not full. Is it an infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 60 lbs

My dog expressed his anal glands on my bed but he's not showing signs that they are full. What could be the causes that he expressed them when he wasn't pooping? Possible infection?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 21st, 2017

I'm sorry to hear that Miggy expressed his anal glands on your bed. How unpleasant! Some dogs will express their anal glands during times of stress or even during extreme relaxation. This occurs more commonly if the material in the glands is more liquid rather than being more paste-like. Infected anal glands do not typically express easily. Try to look at Miggy's hind end and determine if you see a red or open lesion just outside of his anus, as this would indicate an anal sac rupture from an abscess or impaction. If this is the case, Miggy needs veterinary attention. Otherwise, continue closely monitoring Miggy for hind end licking or scooting to determine if his anal glands are full. If he continues not to show any signs that they are full, try taking him to his vet every month or so to have them expressed to prevent future problems.

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11Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Any thing that causes a dog fear, stress, or excitement could lead a dog to express their anal sacs. It could be that Miggy was excited or stressed and that lead him to express them on your bed. If they were infected, you would likely see blood and pus in the anal sac contents.

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    7Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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