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My golden retriever is licking his behind. Is it anal glands?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 2 months old | 80 lbs

My golden retriever went into the vet almost a week ago since every time he goes outside or climbs stairs he cries but now he keeps licking his behind. The vet didn’t find anything with his leg and thought it might be sprained or pulled muscle but he has started to lick obsessively. Should I take him back in? What would you say would be a good guess on what is going on? Based off of these forums it seems it could be an anal gland or worse. He’s only three but please help.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 19th, 2018

It sounds like an anal gland issue. I would recommend taking him back in and letting your veterinarian express them. Then you can add pumpkin to Parker's food daily to try and bulk up his stool. This will help express his anal glands better. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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