Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. DogPlay staff are not veterinarians—please consult your vet for any medical concerns or before making significant diet changes.
Can Food Cause Anal Gland Issues in Dogs? (Quick Takeaways)
- Yes—diet can contribute to anal gland issues or help prevent them by shaping stool consistency and gut health.
- Low-fiber or highly processed foods often lead to soft stools that don’t create enough pressure for natural gland expression.
- High-fiber, moisture-rich diets with lean proteins and good hydration support firm, healthy stools and gland function.
- At DogPlay (daycare, grooming, boarding), we follow your dog’s feeding schedule and dietary instructions and flag any concerns so you can follow up with your vet.
If your dog has been scooting across the floor, licking their rear, or giving off a fishy odor, you’re not alone. These are some of the most common signs of anal gland issues in dogs, and they can be uncomfortable or even painful for your pup.
What many dog parents don’t realize is that food can cause anal gland issues in dogs—or help prevent them. The link between diet, digestion, and gland health runs deep, and understanding it can make a world of difference for your dog’s comfort.
At DogPlay, our Vancouver-based dog daycare, boarding, and grooming teams care for dogs daily who show subtle signs of digestive or gland discomfort. When your pup spends the day or night with us, we always follow their specific feeding schedule and dietary preferences to keep them on track with their usual routine and ensure they’re comfortable, cared for, and well-fed.
What Are Anal Glands and Why They Matter for Your Dog’s Health
Anal glands (also called anal sacs) are two small scent glands located on either side of your dog’s anus. These glands produce a strong-smelling secretion used for marking territory and communication between dogs. But when they don’t empty properly, they can become irritated, full, or infected, leading to discomfort or serious complications. Understanding what causes anal gland issues in dogs is the first step toward prevention.
How Anal Glands Function and Common Problems
When your dog poops, firm stool naturally presses on the anal glands, causing them to release a small amount of fluid. This process, known as natural expression, helps keep the glands clean and healthy. Problems arise when the stool is too soft to apply enough pressure—or when inflammation, infection, or poor diet interferes with the process. Over time, the fluid can thicken and build up, leading to impaction (a hard buildup of thickened gland fluid), infection, or even abscesses.
Many small breeds like Chihuahuas, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels are more prone to anal gland issues in dogs, but any dog can develop them. Factors such as food allergies, obesity, and chronic digestive issues can all contribute to poor gland function.
Signs and Symptoms of Anal Gland Issues in Dogs
Some of the most common signs of anal gland issues in dogs include scooting, swelling, excessive licking or biting near the tail, and a strong, fishy odor. Other symptoms may include whining, restlessness, or avoiding sitting down due to discomfort. In severe cases, you might notice redness, swelling, or even discharge near the anal area. If left untreated, impaction can lead to infection or abscesses that require veterinary care.
At DogPlay’s grooming salon, our professional groomers are trained to recognize when your dog may need extra attention around their anal glands. While routine grooming helps keep the area clean and allows for gentle external expression when appropriate, more serious or recurring anal gland issues always require veterinary care. Our team focuses on keeping your pup comfortable, healthy, and stress-free—and we’ll always let you know if something seems off so you can follow up with your vet.
Can Food Cause Anal Gland Issues in Dogs?
Yes—food can cause anal gland issues in dogs, especially when the diet affects digestion and stool consistency. Since the glands empty during bowel movements, anything that disrupts your dog’s digestion can lead to buildup or infection.
How Diet Impacts Stool Consistency and Natural Gland Expression
Dogs who eat high-fibre dog food for anal gland prevention tend to have healthier stools—firm but not hard. This firmness naturally presses on the anal glands during defecation, helping them empty as they should. Diets that are low in fiber or overly processed—such as cheap kibble filled with fillers like corn, soy, or by-products—can cause soft stools that don’t create enough pressure to naturally express the glands, leading to blockages or impaction. Dogs fed mostly wet food without enough fiber, or those receiving too many fatty table scraps and treats, are also more likely to experience anal gland issues over time.
Adding fibre-rich foods like pumpkin, sweet potato, and green beans can make a big difference. If your dog’s stool consistency changes after switching foods, that’s a sign to revisit their nutrition plan with your vet.
Once you have a plan in place, you don’t have to worry about your dog missing a meal or breaking routine when you’re away. At DogPlay, our daycare and boarding teams carefully follow each dog’s feeding schedule and dietary instructions so your pup stays healthy, happy, and consistent with their nutrition even when you’re not home.
The Role of Food Allergies and Inflammation
Food allergies causing anal gland issues in dogs are more common than you might think. When dogs are sensitive to ingredients like grains, dairy, chicken, or beef, their immune system reacts by inflaming the digestive tract. Over time, that constant irritation, known as chronic inflammation, can disrupt healthy digestion and stool consistency. Since the anal glands rely on firm stools for natural expression, this inflammation can make them harder to empty, increasing the risk of impaction or infection.
Switching to a hypoallergenic diet or limited-ingredient formula often improves both digestion and gland health. Always transition your dog’s diet gradually and under veterinary supervision.
Poor Nutrition, Obesity, and Anal Gland Health
A poor-quality diet doesn’t just affect your dog’s coat or energy, it can directly impact anal gland health. Dogs carrying extra weight are more prone to gland problems because excess fat reduces the natural pressure needed for the glands to express during bowel movements.
Obesity can also slow digestion and promote low-grade inflammation throughout the body, increasing the likelihood of impaction or infection. By maintaining a healthy weight and feeding a diet rich in lean protein and whole ingredients, you support proper gland function and overall digestive wellness.
What to Feed Your Dog for Healthy Anal Glands
Feeding the best dog food for anal glands means focusing on fiber, hydration, and quality protein sources. A clean, consistent diet supports digestive health, reduces inflammation, and helps your dog produce the kind of stool that keeps their glands healthy.
High-Fiber Dog Food and Digestive Support
Fibre is your dog’s best friend when it comes to how to prevent anal gland issues in dogs. Soluble fiber (found in pumpkin and apples) absorbs water to regulate digestion, while insoluble fiber (found in carrots and sweet potatoes) adds bulk to stool. Together, they create the perfect consistency for natural gland expression.
You can boost fiber naturally through safe whole foods or choose premium formulas designed for digestive health. Always introduce fiber slowly to avoid gas or bloating.
Hydration and Moisture-Rich Food Options
Hydration plays an underrated role in anal gland health. Dehydration can lead to constipation or overly firm stools that make gland expression painful. Moisture-rich foods like canned dog food, bone broth, and hydrating veggies such as cucumber or zucchini can help maintain healthy digestion.
At DogPlay’s daycare, we ensure every dog has access to clean, fresh water throughout the day, whether they’re running, playing, or resting. Consistent hydration supports not just gland health, but overall wellness.
Natural Foods That Promote Anal Gland Expression
Some natural foods act as gentle digestive aids. Plain pumpkin puree, sweet potatoes, and apples with the skin on all contain the right mix of fiber and moisture to help maintain stool consistency. Lean proteins like turkey or white fish support muscle health without causing excess fat buildup, which can strain the glands.
These foods can be used as toppers or snacks, but moderation is key. Always verify portion sizes with your vet, especially when making dietary changes.
Foods to Avoid If Your Dog Has Anal Gland Issues
Certain foods can worsen anal gland issues in dogs or even trigger them in the first place. Eliminating common irritants and low-quality ingredients is essential for prevention.
Common Dietary Triggers and Allergens
The most frequent dietary culprits include grains, red meat, soy, and dairy. These can cause inflammation or irregular stools that lead to blocked glands. If you suspect a food sensitivity, try a limited-ingredient diet under your vet’s guidance. Keeping a food journal helps track reactions and patterns.
The Problem with Processed, Fatty, or Sugary Foods
Heavily processed foods and table scraps may taste good to your dog, but they’re packed with fillers and fats that can irritate the gut. This often results in loose stools or inconsistent digestion—both of which contribute to gland buildup.
Avoid giving fried foods, sugary treats, or leftovers. Choose high-quality, balanced dog food instead, and remember: consistency helps maintain healthy digestion.
How to Prevent Anal Gland Problems in Dogs
Preventing gland issues in dogs comes down to overall wellness. Consistent movement, proper hydration, and routine care all play a part in keeping your pup healthy and comfortable.
Regular Exercise and Vet Checkups
Daily walks and playtime keep digestion active, helping stool pass normally and supporting natural gland expression. Routine veterinary exams can catch small issues, like mild inflammation or impaction, before they become painful. If your vet recommends manual expression, they can perform it safely and teach you what to watch for at home.
How Grooming and Daycare Observation Help Spot Early Signs
Professional grooming doesn’t prevent impaction directly, but it plays an important role in early detection and hygiene. Regular cleaning around the rear area helps reduce irritation, bacteria buildup, and odor—all of which can worsen discomfort if left untreated.
At DogPlay, our grooming and daycare teams pay attention to subtle cues in your dog’s comfort, stool changes, and behaviour, helping pet parents stay proactive about their dog’s health.
FAQs: Can Food Cause Anal Gland Issues in Dogs?
What Are the Signs My Dog’s Anal Glands Are Full?
Scooting, licking near the tail, trouble sitting, or a strong fishy odor are the most common signs. You may also notice swelling or redness around the anus. If these symptoms persist, contact your vet.
Can Certain Dog Foods Prevent Anal Gland Problems?
Yes. High-fiber, moisture-rich diets made with quality proteins help create firm, consistent stools that naturally express the glands. Look for premium digestion-focused formulas or natural, fiber-rich ingredients like pumpkin and sweet potato.
How Much Fiber Should My Dog Have?
Most dogs do well with 2–5% fiber in their diet, but the ideal amount depends on size, age, and activity level. Always check with your veterinarian before adjusting fiber intake.
Are Grain-Free Diets Better for Anal Gland Health?
It depends on your dog. Some dogs with food sensitivities benefit from grain-free diets, while others need small amounts of whole grains to maintain stool firmness. Your vet can help identify what’s best.
Can Raw Food or Probiotics Help with Anal Gland Issues?
For some dogs, raw diets or probiotics can improve digestion and reduce inflammation, supporting gland health. However, both should only be introduced under veterinary guidance.
Should My Groomer Express My Dog’s Anal Glands?
Some groomers are trained to perform external anal gland expression, which can relieve mild fullness in otherwise healthy dogs. However, internal expression and treatment for impacted or infected glands should only be done by a veterinarian. Overexpressing or applying too much pressure can irritate the glands or cause injury.
What Happens If My Dog’s Anal Glands Aren’t Expressed?
If full glands aren’t emptied naturally, they can become impacted or infected, leading to pain, swelling, and abscesses that may require antibiotics or surgery. Early attention prevents more serious complications.
Does DogPlay Offer Help with Anal Gland Care?
At DogPlay, our grooming team provides gentle, hygienic care and can perform external anal gland expression when appropriate to keep your dog comfortable and clean. We also watch closely for signs of irritation, swelling, or discomfort during grooming or boarding. If we notice anything unusual, we’ll always let you know so your vet can take a closer look or provide medical care if needed.
Keep Your Dog Happy, Healthy, and Cared For—Book a Trial Day at DogPlay Vancouver
Keeping your dog’s diet balanced and their care consistent can prevent countless problems, from digestion troubles to painful gland issues. For Vancouver pet parents, DogPlay provides the perfect mix of expert care, playtime, and comfort. Book your dog’s Trial Day today to see why our trusted dog day care in Vancouver helps keep tails wagging and pups feeling their best.For more helpful wellness and behaviour insights, visit the DogPlay Blog.