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My dog has anal gland issues. What food is safe from grain-free risks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 50 lbs

I have a dog with butt gland issues (leak) and was told years ago to go to grain free dog food diet. Now i am reading this is really bad for him. I am lost as to what food I am supposed to buy without peas/lentils/potatoes and is it supposed to be grain free still? He is 6, and i hear that he is at high risk being on grain free. Any advice would be helpful

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 10th, 2020

There is no proof that grain free diets help with anal sac issues, so I would switch Bauer off a grain free diet, especially in light of the issues with those diet and dilated cardiomyopathy. I'd put him on a diet like Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Iams. I'd also put him on Glandex, a supplement which can help with his anal sac issues.

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