Definitely sounds like anal glands. And be aware -- your GROOMER may express them without your knowledge!!!!
Ask. I didn't because I'd never heard of such a thing -- until we had problems.
And I wholeheartedly agree on the surgery thing. Ozzie now has a minor hernia that causes some periodic swelling. It was partially controlled by meds and by neutering him, but the only way to completely "fix" it may cause more problems in the long run (incontinence) per the vet.
Good luck! I hope everything empties out OK.
