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Why is my dog leaking brown fluid from his anus and licking it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 62 lbs

My black lab is leaking brown fluid from his anus . I am not sure if he is ok . Should I take him to the vet? He is licking in the area and around

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 7th, 2020

Poor guy. He either has really loose stool or an anal gland issues. The anal glands are located inside the rectum and can get infected or even rupture, causing leakage of fluid that is very strong and smelly. I would definitely recommend taking him to your vet on tomorrow if possible to get this looked at. Either condition is very treatable through your vet with medications (i.e. antibiotics). For now, it is best to just wipe the area gently with a wet cloth or paper towel. If the area appears to be irriated, you can also apply a cold compress on the area if he will allow it, for 2-5 mins to help soothe the area. Also an epsom salt water solution can help clean the area and provide additional relief. I hope that Frankie's rear end improves soon! Best wishes and take care. : )

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19Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 30th, 2017

    Hello. I am sorry that Toby is having these issues. Licking of the anus can be caused by many things, including anal glands being full, food allergies, environmental allergies, as well as worms. When you express anal glands you can do it from the 'outside' or from the 'inside'. When you express from the outside you don't always get all of it out. Also, depending on what the consistency of the discharge from the glands will give you a clue if that is the underlying cause. If the anal gland fluid came out easily, was clear and liquid, this is unlikely the issue. If it was hard to come out, chunky, or darker brown/black, then he is having issues with his glands. I would make sure Toby is dewormed, not overweight (being overweight can lead to issues expressing anal glands normally), and if this doesn't work (or if he also scratches his ears and chews his feet), I would look into a diet trial for food allergies. It is also worth checking to make sure he doesn't have any masses around or in his anus/rectum. Having your vet do a rectal on him next time you are in is a good idea. Best of luck with Toby.

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