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My dog's anal glands smell. Does she need more fiber in her diet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 3 years and 3 months old | 60 lbs

I wanted to know more about my dog’s (3 yr old Amer. Staff./Vizsla mix) anal glands. Sometimes she emits a distinct smell from her rear and sometimes there is liquid that comes with it. I’ve heard this could mean she needs to get her anal glands expressed. I did some research and saw that a diet with more fiber might help her glands express themselves naturally, but I don’t know what kind of diet is normal for a dog. She’s always eaten Purina One. Should I try something with more fiber? Thanks!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on March 5th, 2018

If her stools are solid then she probably doesn't need more fibers, the anal glands are expressed naturally when the stools pass out, if the stools are too soft then the effect of emptying the anal glands is greatly reduced. if this is the case then yes she could benefit from more fibers, there is a special food called Royal Canin fiber response that usually helps a lot with this issue.

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