Dog anal gland issues (e.g. anal sac impaction, infection, rupture, or cancer) can quite literally be a pain in the rear for your dog. To help you navigate these problems, integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby gives some background on anal glands, and then explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of anal gland issues in dogs.
Dogs like Chester, who was driving his mom (and himself) crazy by scooting his hind end on the carpet non-stop, show up on my schedule fairly often. And more times than not, the culprit ends up being some sort of anal gland issue.
Chester was no exception. As I examined him, I discovered that he had a small hole about the size of the tip of my little finger below and to the side of his anus. This told me that Chester’s anal sac, which was probably previously impacted, had now ruptured.
Chester’s mom was very surprised to hear this because she didn’t know that there could be anal gland problems in dogs other than the glands just being full. I explained to her that there are actually multiple different anal gland problems that a dog could have. Thankfully, though, many of them can be treated, and often even prevented, with proper management.
What are anal glands in dogs?
To understand problems associated with the anal glands in dogs, it is important have an idea of the anatomy and function of healthy anal glands.
The anal sacs are two small pouches that are located beneath the skin in a dog’s anal area. Both male and female dogs have an anal sac on each side of the anus—one at approximately four o’clock, and the other at approximately eight o’clock.
The anal sacs are lined with sebaceous glands (i.e. the anal glands) that produce a foul smelling fluid. Normally this fluid builds up slightly in the anal sac. Then, as the dog has a bowel movement, the fluid exits the anal sac to the outside world via a small canal.
(Thus, strictly speaking, the anal glands line the anal sacs. However, most people use the terms “anal glands” and “anal sacs” interchangeably, so I will do so in this article too.)
The fluid that the dog releases from the anal glands is normally fairly thin and tan, and has a strong fishy odor. This smell acts as a dog’s “signature” or “name tag” in the environment. The odor is unique to each dog. And dogs use it to mark their territory and identify themselves.
When another dog sniffs the feces and anal gland fluid on the ground (or smells the other dog’s hind end), that dog will be able to “recognize” the other dog. This signature helps dogs investigate and learn about each other.
Why do anal glands sometimes cause problems?
As discussed, dogs can empty their anal glands naturally when defecating. However, sometimes all doesn’t go according to plan, and the anal gland secretions start to accumulate in the anal sacs. As a result, pressure builds up in the anal area—which can be very uncomfortable or even quite painful. If not resolved, the buildup of anal gland material can lead to anal sac disease.
4 Anal gland issues in dogs
There are four main anal sac problems in dogs—anal gland impaction, anal gland infection, anal gland rupture, and anal gland cancer. Let’s discuss each one.
1. Anal gland impaction in dogs
Anal sac impaction occurs when the anal gland secretions begin to build up abnormally in the anal glands. The exact reason this happens isn’t clear. However, there are some theories.
Expressing the glands requires applying the right amount of pressure to the glands to carefully squeeze the fluid out during the bowel movement. Typically, the physical act of defecating and the presence of the feces passing through the anal sphincter should apply the necessary pressure.
Contributing factors
However, if the feces are an abnormal consistency, having a bowel movement may not exert the right forces to empty the glands. Additionally, in some dogs, the glands may be harder to empty than normal due to abnormal anatomy or health problems. For example, the opening of the canal out of the anal sac is already very small. But sometimes it is naturally abnormally narrow or becomes narrower due to inflammation.
Plus, some conditions (e.g. allergies) can cause a dog to produce a large amount of anal gland fluid. Or the anal gland secretions may become thickened and compacted. All these factors may create a situation where not enough anal gland material may be able to get out of the anal glands during defecation.
Conditions that contribute to anal gland impaction in dogs
Thus, the following conditions may make dogs more likely to have an anal gland impaction (and subsequent anal gland issues):
- Chronic, ongoing skin infections (especially near the hind end)
- Obesity (which may reduce muscle tone)
- Inappropriate amounts of fiber in the diet
- Soft stool or chronic diarrhea
- Food allergies or seasonal allergies
- Genetic predisposition (especially in small breed dogs)
- Swollen anal sacs
Progression of anal gland impaction
If a dog has any of these conditions, he or she might be unable to fully express the anal glands. As more and more material builds up in the anal glands, the tissue may become swollen and inflamed. And the whole gland may become blocked or plugged—which is uncomfortable for your dog. Impacted anal glands also can make it difficult for a dog to defecate because there is so much pressure in the anal area.
Minor impactions may be resolved when a dog scoots or has a large bowel movement. But many dogs with impacted anal glands need a veterinarian to perform manual anal gland expression. Otherwise, if the impacted gland is left untreated, it could lead to an anal gland infection.
2. Anal gland infection or abscess in dogs
Anal gland infections can occur relatively easily after an anal gland becomes impacted. This is the case because the fluid and environment in the anal sac are ideal for bacterial growth. Also, since the anal glands are located so close to the anus, bacteria from the feces can enter the anal sac.
If the dog is unable to properly express the anal glands, the bacteria continues to grow and multiply (rather than being “flushed out” as the anal glands empty). This leads to an anal gland infection or abscess in dogs— which can be extremely painful.
As the anal gland abscess grows, the gland fills with not only the normal secretions, but also bloody fluid or pus. This adds to the pressure that your dog feels in his or her hind end. Your dog might scoot more often, whimper when defecating, or have abnormal bowel movements.
3. Anal gland rupture in dogs
As the pressure continues to build from the infection and anal sac inflammation (i.e. anal sacculitis), the anal glands become more swollen. Eventually, the infection may rupture through the surface of the skin. Once the anal gland bursts, the dog typically has a small hole near the anus—just like Chester did. The ruptured anal gland may leak anal gland secretions, blood, or pus, and have a foul smell.
While the rupture might relieve some of the pressure that your dog was feeling, it leaves your dog with a potentially painful open wound. And it exposes the inside of the anal sac to the “outside elements,” including bacteria from feces or the dog’s environment.
Left untreated, dogs with anal gland ruptures may develop irritation or infection of the anus or rectum and the surrounding skin. When this happens, your dog’s appetite and bowel movements may be affected due to the pain.
4. Anal gland cancer in dogs
While anal gland impactions, infections, and ruptures are the most common problems associated with dog’s anal glands, it is also possible for dogs to develop tumors in the anal glands.
The most common type of cancer that occurs in the anal glands of dogs is called anal sac adenocarcinoma. This is a malignant cancer that typically originates in one anal sac. However, since it is malignant, it can metastasize (i.e. spread) to other parts of the body. Usually, it first spreads to nearby lymph nodes. But it can later metastasize to more distant locations like the liver, lungs, and spleen.
Initially, the dog may be asymptomatic or show signs associated with other anal gland issues. But as the cancer grows and spreads, it becomes increasingly painful for your dog. If the cancer spreads to other locations, your dog may begin to have trouble breathing or other symptoms associated with the lungs or liver. Plus, dogs with anal sac adenocarcinomas may also develop hypercalcemia in dogs (i.e. high blood calcium). This can cause a lethargic dog, GI upset, increased thirst in dogs, or muscle weakness.
What are the symptoms of blocked anal glands in dogs?
Unlike dogs with anal gland cancer, who tend to have more systemic signs, dogs with anal gland impaction, infection, and rupture usually have symptoms that center around the anal glands themselves. Their signs may include:
- Scooting or dragging of the hind end (this is often the first sign)
- The dog licking the base of the tail or chewing under the tail
- Abnormal or strong odor associated with your dog’s rear (your dog smells like fish)
- Swelling or bulging near your dog’s anus
- Straining to defecate
- Red or irritated skin near the anus
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Bloody or dark discharge on the feces (not to be confused with melena, which is digested blood in the stool)
- Bloody, dark, or pus like discharge in the anal area
- A small wound or opening near your dog’s anus
- Whimpering or crying out when defecating
- Holding the tail tucked between the legs
- Repeated quick sitting or reluctance to sit
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if you know your dog has a history of needing his or her anal glands expressed, please schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Anal gland issues are much easier to treat if they are caught early—before there is an infection or rupture.
How will the vet address anal gland issues in dogs?
During the appointment, the vet will talk with you about your dog’s symptoms and history. Then he or she will examine your dog and perform a rectal exam with his or her index figure. The rectal exam gives the vet a chance to palpate each anal sac and the surrounding tissue. Plus, the vet may also be able to palpate the dog’s lymph nodes in the area with a finger.
If the anal glands are full, the vet will attempt to express them. (Some dogs are too painful to tolerate this without sedation). While expressing the anal sacs, your veterinarian will be able to tell if the gland was full, impacted, or contained abnormal discharge. From there, the vet will develop a treatment plan.
Treatment for anal gland impaction
If the anal glands were merely impacted, expressing them may be all the treatment your dog needs. However, the veterinarian will most likely also give you recommendations to prevent anal gland problems in the future. If your dog has an anal gland issue because of an underlying condition such as allergies, being overweight, or a skin infection, your veterinarian will develop a plan to address that problem.
Additionally, your veterinarian might recommend routine, scheduled appointments for anal gland expression. This can help ensure the sacs are being emptied properly, and it allows the vet to monitor the dog for worsening symptoms.
Another method to prevent anal gland impactions is to add more fiber for dogs into your dog’s diet. You can do this by changing to a different dog food or by adding a fiber supplement like Metamucil for dogs to your dog’s food. Alternatively, you could consider giving your dog some canned pumpkin for dogs, which is also rich in fiber. The goal with the dietary changes is to bulk up the stool. This can increase the chances that having a bowel movement will express your dog’s anal glands.
Anal gland infection, abscess, or rupture
If your veterinarian detects an anal gland abscess or rupture, he or she will mostly likely recommend additional treatment beyond expressing your dog’s anal glands. This may involve pain medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. carprofen for dogs) or steroids (e.g. prednisone for dogs).
Plus, the vet will need to address the infection in some way. Systemic antibiotics are one option, however, local treatment is also becoming popular.
In a study in Veterinary Dermatology on local treatment for canine anal sacculitis in 33 dogs, flushing and infusing the anal glands with an antimicrobial and steroid combination achieved clinical resolution of anal sacculitis in 72.7% of dogs. And the owners reported a resolution of symptoms in an additional 12.1% of dogs. These results were achieved without the need for systemic antibiotics.
Therefore, in some cases the vet may recommend surgically draining the anal gland abscess and/or flushing the anal sac and filling it with an antimicrobial (and sometimes anti-inflammatory) medication. Depending on the situation and your dog’s comfort level, your vet may suggest sedating your dog for this procedure.
Additionally, your veterinarian might recommend applying warm compresses to your dog’s anal gland region to decrease the pain and swelling. Or, he or she might suggest a course of laser therapy for dogs, since it has healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Plus, from a preventive aspect, the vet may advise you to bring your dog in for routine anal gland expression or provide dietary fiber supplementation as described above.
However, for dogs with recurring anal gland issues or cancer associated with the anal sac, these measures may not be enough. Some dogs need surgical removal of the glands.
Can a dog’s anal glands be removed?
Dealing with repetitive anal gland issues can be very frustrating for dog parents and their dogs. Sometimes, if medically necessary, the veterinarian can surgically remove a dog’s anal glands. This is the case because dogs do not need their anal glands to survive and enjoy a long, happy life.
If your dog is consistently developing anal gland infections or has been diagnosed with anal gland cancer, removing the anal glands may be the best treatment plan. Some general practitioners are comfortable performing this surgery themselves. But other primary care veterinarians might refer your dog to a veterinary specialist.
Most dogs do very well after surgery to remove the anal glands. However, some dogs might experience mild inflammation and drainage from the surgical site. And occasionally, dogs can develop fecal incontinence because of nerve damage from the surgery.
If your dog is in pain, has cancer, or has chronic reoccurring anal gland problems, surgery might be the best option. But before committing to surgical anal gland removal, you should discuss all your treatment options with your veterinarian to decide what is right for your dog.
Back to Chester
After I explained anal gland issues and treatments to Chester’s mom, we decided on the best course of action. Chester’s treatment plan consisted of:
- Pain management and antibiotics
- Warm compresses at home
- Wearing a cone to prevent licking and worsening irritation
- Adding canned pumpkin to his diet
- Regular anal gland expressions at the vet clinic for the next three months
At the end of his three-month plan, Chester’s anal glands were healthy, and he was back to normal. Chester’s mom changed his diet long-term to include more fiber and monitored his bowel movements very closely. Thankfully, since then, Chester has not had any more anal gland problems.
Work with your veterinarian
Anal gland problems can be frustrating for you and painful for your dog, especially when it seems like your dog can’t catch a break. However, hopefully by working closely with your veterinarian, using preventive strategies like routine anal gland expression or increased dietary fiber, and closely monitoring your dog, your dog’s anal gland issues will become a thing of the past. And then you can get back to enjoying more good days together, just like Chester and his mom.
Does your dog have anal gland issues?
Please share your experiences below.
Mikaila says
My dog has has reoccurring anal gland issues – she gets them emptied often.
Today out of nowhere she leaped up in pain, and I noticed liquid, the same liquid in her glands based on the look and smell, coming out of her bum. She’s clearly in pain but as she’s already on antibiotics for another issue, the vet said we wouldn’t need an emergency appointment but to come in tomorrow.
She’s clearly in pain, it was like an explosion. I expressed as much as I could out but it happened again, then another time but with no liquid. She’s finally settled now but I’m still concerned in case we’re not going to vets asap if we should be
Any advice on what this could be
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Mikaila,
I am sorry your girl experienced this painful and worrisome issue. Without examining her myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions. It sounds like one of her anal glands may have ruptured or could be on the verge of rupture. Hoping you were able to get her in for an appointment with your vet and everything is back on track. Best wishes and good luck!
Beagle loving momma says
My 6 almost 7 year old beagle has a ruptured anal gland right now I believe. He shown no symptoms at all except scooting and when we check his behind, there is a small hole where is anal gland is according to picture on web page. There was no foul smelly fluid, no abnormal poops or pain with poops and today was the only day he scooted. I am waiting for vets to open but I’m scared and don’t know how to help him.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Beagle loving momma,
I am so sorry you are dealing with this issue with your Beagle. I know you are worried, but I promise it looks worse than it actually is. It would be ok if you wanted to gently clean the area with water. Your best bet is to keep your boy inside and as calm as possible until you can get his to the vet. While a ruptured anal gland needs to be addressed promptly, it is not an emergency, and your boy should be fine if you have to wait a few hours for the vet to open. Hoping all is well and you were able to get things taken care of. Feel free to leave an update if you have a chance.
Carolyn Egus says
Cooper 1 1/2 years
He needs his anal glands expressed every 2-3 weeks
My vet is suggesting Apoquel
We feed taste of the wild grain and cooked beef. Cooper is 20 pounds energetic happy but extremely fearful. I think that is where the problem comes from , he’s come along way
Would Apoquel help?
Carolyn
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Carolyn,
I am sorry you are dealing with chronic anal gland issues in your young dog. Without examining Cooper myself, I can’t make specific conclusions or recommendations. I can say that I am not familiar with using Apoquel for this purpose and could not speak to its effectiveness. In my experience, I have had good success with increasing the fiber content in a dog’s diet to help promote natural emptying of the glands with defecation. Most people will use a small amount of pumpkin to achieve the needed fiber content. Here are articles with more information:
1. Dog Anal Glands: Everything Your Vet Wants You To Know
2. Canned Pumpkin For Dogs: A Veterinarian’s Guide
If you have any lingering concerns, please don’t hesitate to discuss them with your vet. Hoping you can find the best way to keep Cooper happy and healthy for many years to come. Best wishes to you both!
L. Todman says
I have a 4-5 y.o. long haired chihuahua, and my poor Rascal constantly has issues with his anal glands. The problem is he shows no signs if discomfort until there is a rupture. I have taken him to vets and groomers to be expressed only for them to tell me the sacs are empty, $75 dollars later. my question is can I treat the rupture at home? When I take him in for emergency appts because of the rupture. they drain it, and then send him home with ointment and carprofen.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi L.,
I am sorry Rascal has been dealing with recurring anal gland issues. I have had patients that are exactly like you describe and show no symptoms prior to the rupture of a gland. I am not sure how successful it would be to treat a ruptured anal gland at home as one of the most important things is to express any remaining fluid/material from the affected gland. This can be challenging even for me and other vets that have had lots of practice with this exact situation. Have you thought about trying to increase the amount of fiber in Rascal’s diet? Adding some pumpkin or Metamucil daily has the potential to prevent future anal gland problems in some dogs. It could be worth a try, but as always please discuss this with your vet first. Wishing you and your sweet boy all the best and praying you can avoid this worrisome event from occurring in the future.
ERNEST ANTHONY SCHUEPBACH says
My sons springer spaniel has had anal gland issues for years. He would lick 24/7 if he let him. We have to put a head cone on him when not supervised. Vets are helpless to us. They put him on Trazadone which helps his anxiety. He is miserable. I feel bad for him. looking for help.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Ernest,
I understand your concern for your son and his pup. It sounds like it may be time for more in-depth investigation to determine the cause of this ongoing issue. I recommend you ask about a consultation with a specialist. They can give you all the testing and treatment options and help guide you along this unknown path. Some dogs end up needing to have the anal sacs flushed with antibiotics or even have them surgically removed. Hoping you can get some answers and ensure your son’s dog can get back to living his best life.
A concerned dog mama says
My senior dog has regular, healthy bowel movements, but recently, blood was observed after one of her bowel movements. The vet advised there was an abscess and conducted anal gland expression on her left gland, and then prescribed her antibiotics. 10 days have passed, but once again, some blood has been observed after her bowel movement.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi A concerned dog mama,
I understand why you are concerned with the presence of blood in your dog’s feces. Unfortunately, without examining your pup myself, it is hard for me to make specific conclusions or recommendations. There are SO MANY possible causes, this really needs more investigation. I encourage you to reach out to your vet and make sure they are aware of this ongoing issue. Hoping you can get the answers you need to restore your girl’s health and well-being.
LORI says
My 3 yr GSD has an issue for 3 -4 weeks and we are stumped. Started off with licking her butt. Then I noticed a light brownish discharge. Took her to vet and she determined anal glands were not full. My dog is acting normal as can be. Eats well, Wants to go out and play and no weird smells but discharge still there. Took her to vet again and saw her regular vet. She did express glands a little but no bad smell. I had been putting a diaper on her so I could see the amount of discharge. Wasn’t alot to begin with but now less but still there. She has not been licking either.. Dr can’t pinpoint it and thinks it may be allergies. Started her on. APOQUEL.. I tried for a few weeks but still has some but less discharge. I am not convinced allergies.. What the heck is this discharge? We cannot figure it out.
.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Lori,
I am sorry your young dog is having these strange issues and I understand why you are concerned. Of course, without examining her myself, I can’t make specific conclusions. But one thing that comes to mind is that Shepherds are predisposed to forming perianal fistulas also known as anal furunculosis. This is a chronic inflammatory disease that is suspected to be related to immune system dysfunction. It can look very similar to an anal gland issue but is not related. Here is an article with more information (see #2): Furunculosis in Dogs: 3 Types That Can Affect Your Dog
I encourage you to discuss this with your vet and don’t be afraid to ask for a referral to a specialist if needed. Hoping you can get some answers and restore your sweet girl’s quality of life. Wishing you both the best and feel free to leave an update as things progress.
Breanne Foster says
My dog is currently experiencing her first ruptured anal gland. It’s late Friday night and all vet clinics are close until Monday. I’ve given her a warm compress and tried dabbing away some of the pus afterwards, but I’m hoping there’s more I can to make her weekend a little more comfortable. Is there any way to stop the pus?
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Breanne,
I am sorry your pup is experiencing this painful situation with her anal gland. You actually need all the infection and fluid to drain out. The anal sac ruptured because it was over filled due to inflammation or infection. I am not sure there is much you can do at home other than to keep the area clean. I recommend you take your girl to your vet as soon as possible. Hoping it will heal quickly and wishing you both all the best.
Christine Cooke says
Hi my westie had his anal gland removed 5 weeks ago and it is still oozing from the surgery wound. I took him back to vet last week and he put him on antibiotics but after finishing the course he is still oozing. Is this normal after 5 weeks to still ooze.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Christine,
I am sorry your Westie is having these worrisome complications. Without examining your pup myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions. But it does seem odd for there to still be drainage after finishing the course of antibiotics. Please make sure your vet is aware of this ongoing issue. It may be time for more in-depth investigation. Has cancer been ruled out as a possibility? It may be time to schedule a consultation with a specialist or see if surgical removal of the anal sac is warranted. Hoping you can get some answers and praying for a positive outcome.
Kim says
Hi,
My 7 yr old Havanese had an anal gland abscess on 12/23 that burst and was on antibiotics until Feb. The infection finally cleared but the hole will not close. It’s now been 2 months. She’s had a cone this entire time. Though infection has been cleared for 3 weeks, why won’t the hole close and what can I do next? Vet said to try and avoid removal. Thx
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Kim,
I understand your concern for your pup, but without examining her myself, it is hard to make specific recommendations. It may be that the tissue where the rupture occurred has scarred and the hole may remain even though the wound has healed. If you remove the cone, does your dog try to lick or bother the affected area? It could be helpful to schedule a consultation with a specialist. They can evaluate your girl and let you know if any further treatment is needed. Hoping you can get some answers and ensure your girl makes a full recovery. Best wishes and good luck!
Caroline Jacomb says
We are having the exact same with our poor dog, she’s been in a cone since December and the open cuts won’t heal- they look like open slits, I can’t actually see how they will heal after all this time- we just don’t know what to do but I really feel your and your dog’s pain Kim!
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Caroline,
I am sorry your dog is having this same issue. As long as your vet has ruled out the possibility of cancer, it could be helpful to try laser therapy on the affected areas. Laser therapy can improve blood flow and speed up the healing process. I have seen it do wonderful things for wounds and infected tissue. Don’t forget it is always ok to ask for a consultation with a specialist or pursue a second opinion. Wishing you and your pup the best of luck and praying for a positive outcome.
Joyce Webb Oser says
My 20 mo wire fox terrier had her annual gland to rupture last Thursday and received a steroid shot and has been on antibiotics since (Sunday. She will be done). She’s back to normal and playing BUT my husband just checked and it’s red, swollen and some puss now. She’s under bed. I checked her last night & it was fine! Vet can’t get to her until morning. Is she Safe? This scares me.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Joyce,
I am sorry your young dog is having issues with her anal glands. While this definitely needs to be addressed promptly, I am not sure it is an emergency situation. As long as your girl is active, eating and drinking, and using the bathroom normally, it is probably safe to wait until morning to take her to the vet. Hoping all is well and wishing you both the best of luck!
Renee Landers says
I take my 11+ yr.old mini doxie in for nail clip ev. 6 was. Ev. other visit I have his anal glands expressed. Yesterday he saw a vet new to us. She took a long time and was obviously hurting him. She said she thought he had an obstruction. All afternoon and all nite he was frantically licking back there and going in and out trying to poop. Today that has decreased, but he’s got a big raw spot back there and still licking. Placeing my hand lightly over his rear under his tail I feel a good sized bulge, which frightens me. Vet receptionist said they’re full so wait time Mon. to bring him in!
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Renee,
I am sorry your little guy is painful and having issues with his anal glands. Without examining your pup myself, it is hard to make specific recommendations. It sounds like the vet was correct and there is probably an obstruction to one of your dog’s anal glands. When they become severely impacted you can see the bulge from the outside. This will be painful to your pup and cause him to lick at the area. If the impacted gland continues to enlarge it can eventually rupture. Just before rupture, you can usually see a red area of very thin skin adjacent to the anal opening. This may be the “raw spot” you are describing. A visit to your vet would be a good idea. Hoping you can get an appointment first thing Monday morning.
Teri says
I have a miniature dachshund. Gus is almost 17 years old. He has had anal gland issues for several years. This past Spring, I was told he has nodules on the right side. My vet feels that due to his age, he is not a good candidate for surgery and the nodules have grown. We are constantly battling the left side anal gland rupturing.. if I ever have another dachshund, I will consider having the anal glands removed when the dog is spayed or neutered.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Teri,
I am sorry Gus has endured so many issues with his anal glands. Hopefully you will not have to deal with this difficult situation in the future should you find yourself blessed with another Dachshund. Gus is a lucky boy to have you advocating for his health and well-being. What a blessing to have spent almost 17 years together! Wishing you both the best for many happy days ahead. ♥
Ann Stonely says
I have two dogs and all of the sudden one is feeling, let’s say humpy. He won’t leave my other guy alone and keeps licking his anal area as well as trying to mount him. Other than that my victim dog has shown no signs of anal problems. No scooting, no issue pooping, no licking himself, healthy appetite. It has been a week and I am not sure which dog needs help!
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Ann,
I understand your concern with these new mounting behaviors between your dogs. Without examining them myself, I can’t make specific conclusions. But in general, I would assume this is a behavioral issue with your dog and probably not a medical issue for the other pup. How old is your dog? Has he been neutered? While this behavior could be hormone driven, mounting can also be a way to establish dominance within dog relationships. I encourage you to discuss this with your vet. They can help navigate the issue and offer solutions if needed. Take care and good luck!
Shirley says
I was enjoying my reading untill this last comment made me sad. Really? Dominance? In 2024? Nowadays we (should) know mounting is not dominance. It can be e.g. frustration, stress, pain/discomfort, play… But not dominance. It is very old school (and misleading) to say that.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Shirley,
I am sorry to have disappointed you with my reply to Ann. Maybe it was a poor choice of wording on my part. I agree that mounting can be due to stress, anxiety, frustration, and sometimes even medical causes (prostate inflammation/infection). But I am also certain that this can be a social behavior to help establish relational boundaries between dogs. Thank you for bringing up this important topic. Best wishes!