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Why is my dog leaking slimy fluid from her rear and licking it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 5 years and 4 months old

My dog has been letting out some kind of slime out of her anus.She usually does it at home and starts licking it.Does anyone know what could that be?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on September 4th, 2016

That could be either coming from the anal glands (most likely) or the rectum. In the first case anal glands impaction or infection are the most common causes, in the second cases a colitis is possible but usually diarrhea is present as well. A veterinary check up would be needed to check and confirm this suspicion (the anal gland problem).

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3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Sarah Smith, Bsc (Hons) BVM&S MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 21st, 2016

    I would recommend taking your dog to be checked out by your veterinarian. The anal glands may simply need expressing but in doing so your veterinarian will also be able to assess the fluid that is expressed, rule out any secondary infections and perform a rectal examaination to rule out any other potential problems and will be able to provide any medications as indicated.

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    20Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 22nd, 2017

    Sounds like she has an issue with her anal glands (sacs). The liquid coming out should be grey and not white so that may be abnormal. I suggest you get her to your vet for an exam to see if those glands are full and/or infected. When they are full dogs will lick back there because it is uncomfortable. In the meantime you can try feeding her some canned pumpkin (the puree, not the pie filling) about 1/4 cup twice a day. This is extra fiber and that can sometimes help. Of course if there is an infection present that will not help much - she will need antibiotics for that. http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=625 Be advised that I cannot diagnose over the internet. It is always recommended that you seek the advice of a vet that has actually examined your pet before instituting any home treatment. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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