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Why are my dog's anal glands always full and need expressing?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cairn Terrier | Female | spayed | 9 years and 4 months old | 23 lbs

My dog keeps scooting her bum, a vet told us that it was her anal sacs, and every time we go to the vet with her, they are almost always full and have to be emptied, what could be a cause of her sacs filling up so quickly?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 30th, 2018

No one knows for certain what causes recurrent anal gland inflammation and irritation - sometimes allergies seem to play a role, and certain dog breeds seem to have more issues than others. There are some supplements that you can try, and sometimes adding fiber to the diet can help as well. If Pixie is not on a regular schedule to have her glands expressed that might help. If the problem is severe with recurrent anal gland infections surgery to remove the anal glands is sometimes recommended.

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