[SnowWa]

Anal gland problems!!!

These can certainly vary. Some dogs never have a problem. Some have problems occasionally. And, some dogs have chronic problems.

Ideally, just defecating will automatically keep the anal glands clean. If not, your little dog scooting his little butt around the ground is his way of trying to clean them (and this often works too).

If he can't keep his anal glands clean on his own and you notice that he is having a problem (you can tell by their scooting their little rear ends around on the ground) --- take him to a vet.

My dogs only have occasional problems - perhaps once every year or two - and they go to the vet. I prefer going to the vet because the vet also injects something into the glands -something that helps with healing and helps treat any infection. (Perhaps this helps them have only "occasional" problems.)

---- Diet is an important part of preventing these problems. When dogs have good firm stools, they more easily express and empty these glands when they go to the bathroom. If your dog's stools aren't firm most of the time, they may need a higher fiber diet.

Good luck - Carol Jean

PS: My daugter's poor dog suffered with chronic anal gland problems for years - had to go to the vet often and endure a lot of pain having them expressed. He finally had surgery and have his glands removed.