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Why does my dog release anal glands and act aggressive toward dogs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 9 months old

Do all dogs do this or my is only doing that Whenever my dog come close to any other dog say labrador he releases smell from his anal glands and barks and tries to scare other dogs and release smell so how can i stop that smell and his scary issue and can i add another gsd puppy to house or i shluld wait him tonget mature and also gsd male or gsd female or what other dog breed will be preferable with him?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on September 6th, 2017

With Bruno the reason he is acting this way is dominance and trying to mark his territory. He can do fine with another dog in the house and typically breed does not matter. However I would highly recommend getting Bruno neutered. Neutering will help with aggression and dominance issues. It is really important to get these dogs in a training program. I would recommend starting with basic commands like sit, come and stay. After he has mastered those you can move on to harder ones. IT is important in public that Bruno feels safe with you and also like he does not have to protect you. This will fix him releasing his anal glands. Training will be the key. hope that helps

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Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Susan England-Foster

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 6th, 2017

    Typically this is a sign that Bruno is trying to mark/stand his ground/territory. I would recommend working with a behavioral specialist to help decrease his anxiety level. AT home you can work on basic commands like come, sit and stay. Than start being more advance by adding these commands around other people or other dogs. Bruno will calm down once he starts getting training and commands from you. Also I would recommend neutering him. This will help with his level of dominance. Hope that helps

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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