Once a dog's anal gland has gotten full....?

Question

.....is it too late to fix it by dietary changes? (I.e. does it have to be manually expressed?) My vet told me awhile back that if I feed my dog some canned pumpkin mixed in with his food, the increased fiber will make his stool "bulkier" so it will kinda push the stuff out of the anal gland when he poops. But I don't know if that works after the gland is already full and he's "scooting". Any info would be appreciated.

BTW....sorry to be so gross :)

Answer 1

Dietary changes are generally best at keeping the gland empty before it gets overally full. This is due to the very small duct (tube) that drains the anal gland. If the anal gland is very full it gets slightly inflamed and puts pressure on the duct making it very difficult to express. If the glands get too full they rupture, usually out through the skin near the anus. If get a tissue and squeeze near the anus in the 4to5 and 7to8oclock position you may just squeeze some thick brown, sticky, stinky muck out called anal gland fluid. It is difficult for a first time but any vet would be delighted to show you how to do it so you can do it at home. Definitely not the most glamorous part of the job! Anal glands often dont self express when dietary fibre is low so feed pumpkin, vegetables, psyllium husks or any other high fibre food. Have fun with those glands.

Answer 2

Not sure but I would deffinitely try it before attempting it personally myself. Alot of groomers will do it for you too. Good Luck