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Why is my dog leaking smelly discharge when sitting on my lap?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Female | spayed | 4 years and 10 months old | 15 lbs

Why does my dog secrete feces while sitting on my lap or in a chair, etc.? Awful smell. Been doing this for 2 days

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on April 15th, 2018

This sounds like she is leaking anal sac fluid. The anal sacs are like scent glands in a skunk. They are on either side of the anal opening. The foul smelling fluid usually comes out when they defecate or sometimes when they are scared or hurt. If she’s just started doing this the sacs are probably over full. Please take her in to have them emptied and make sure they are not infected. Many small dogs need the anal sacs expressed every few months to prevent impact ion and infections. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Sugar.

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