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Why is my dog's tail to one side? Could it be anal glands or injury?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 85 lbs

I have a 6 year old chocolate lab and he is keeping his tail to one side. He won’t let me help him or look to see what’s going on. Maybe I need to express his anal glands?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 27th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While an anal sac issue is possible, other things like potentially a soft tissue injury to the tail, a fracture of one of the tail bones and even a condition called "lumber tail" appear more likely. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They should be able to localize his pain and proceed with diagnostics if needed as well as prescribing a medication for pain if it seems indicated. Good luck and have a good day!

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    Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Hunter. Yes, an anal gland problem is certainly a possibility but I would also consider some kind of tail injury. I would advise taking him to your vet so they can evaluate him and recommend treatment for him. If you are trained in emptying the anal glands, you could try this with someone holding him. Otherwise, let your vet or groomer empty the glands. Good luck

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