As a dog parent, I’ve faced many challenges, but one of the most surprising issues I encountered with my dog was anal gland problems. At first, I didn’t even know dogs had anal glands, let alone that food could play a role in keeping them healthy or causing issues.
If you’re reading this, you’re probably concerned about your own dog’s health, and I want to share what I’ve learned through my personal experience, research, and advice from my vet.
My Dog Struggles with Scooting and Discomfort
It all started when I noticed my dog scooting across the living room carpet. I thought it was funny at first—typical dog behavior, right? But then it became more frequent.
He was also licking his rear excessively and seemed uncomfortable. I even noticed a strange, fishy smell around him, which was unpleasant for both of us. My first thought was worms, so I rushed him to the vet.
To my surprise, the vet explained that dog’s anal glands weren’t emptying properly. This led to discomfort and the behaviors I’d noticed. The vet asked about His diet, which got me thinking: could the food I was feeding him be part of the problem?
What I Learned About Anal Glands
Anal glands are two small sacs located on either side of a dog’s anus. They release a smelly fluid that dogs naturally express when they poop. This fluid has a scent that helps dogs mark their territory.
Ideally, healthy bowel movements create enough pressure to empty these glands. However, if the stool is too soft, the glands may not empty, leading to blockages, infections, or even abscesses.
How Diet Plays a Role
My dog’s diet at the time wasn’t great—I’ll admit it. Like many dog owners, I relied on commercial dog food that wasn’t high-quality. It was convenient, but I wasn’t paying much attention to the ingredient list. The vet explained that low-fiber diets often lead to softer stools, which can contribute to anal gland issues.
After this wake-up call, I made changes to His diet, and the improvement was remarkable. Here’s what I learned and applied.
Steps I Took to Improve My Dog’s Diet
- Adding Fiber-Rich Foods
My vet recommended incorporating fiber into his meals to firm up his stools. I started adding plain, unsweetened pumpkin to his food—a small spoonful mixed into his meals. My dog loved it, and it worked wonders for his digestion.I also included cooked sweet potatoes occasionally, as they’re another great source of fiber. Green beans and carrots became his favorite snacks. These changes didn’t just help his anal glands; they also made his coat shinier and his energy levels better.
- Switching to High-Quality Dog Food
I transitioned Him to a premium dog food brand with a balanced nutritional profile. Look for dog food with whole ingredients, a high fiber content, and no unnecessary fillers like corn or soy. It was an investment, but seeing my dog’s health improve made it worthwhile. - Hydration Is Key
Soft stools can also result from dehydration. I started making sure Max always had access to fresh water, and I even added a bit of water to his dry food to keep him hydrated. - Occasional Fiber Supplements
On my vet’s advice, I sometimes added a pinch of psyllium husk to His meals when I noticed his stool consistency wasn’t ideal. It worked quickly and effectively, but I used it sparingly.
What to Avoid
Through trial and error, I realized there were foods I needed to avoid:
- Table Scraps: While it’s tempting to share your meals, fatty or greasy foods can worsen anal gland issues.
- Dairy: My dog loved cheese, but it often gave him diarrhea, making his anal gland problems worse.
- Low-Quality Treats: Many store-bought treats are full of fillers and additives. I replaced these with natural options like apple slices or baby carrots.
Probiotics Made a Difference
Another game-changer was introducing probiotics into His diet. Probiotics support gut health and promote better digestion, which directly impacts stool consistency. I started giving him a probiotic supplement recommended by my vet, and I noticed a significant improvement in his overall gut health.
Regular Exercise Helps Too
While diet was the main focus, I also learned that regular exercise plays a role in anal gland health. Exercise helps stimulate bowel movements, ensuring the glands are expressed naturally. My dog and I started taking longer walks, and it became a great bonding time for us.
The Results Speak for Themselves
After a few months of making these changes, His scooting stopped completely. The foul odor disappeared, and he seemed much happier and more comfortable.
During a follow-up vet visit, the doctor confirmed that his anal glands were healthy and functioning normally. It felt amazing to know that I’d helped him feel better simply by paying more attention to his diet and overall care.
Advice for Other Dog Owners
If your dog is experiencing anal gland issues, don’t ignore it. It’s uncomfortable for your pet and can lead to more serious problems if untreated. Here’s what I recommend based on my experience:
- Consult your vet to rule out underlying issues.
- Evaluate your dog’s diet and make improvements if needed.
- Introduce fiber gradually to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.
- Monitor your dog’s stools regularly (yes, it’s not glamorous, but it’s important).
- Stay consistent with a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Looking back, I wish I’d known earlier how much diet affects anal gland health. It’s not a topic that comes up often, but it’s one every dog owner should be aware of.
My dog taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of paying attention to what goes into his bowl. If your dog is struggling with anal gland problems, don’t despair. With the right adjustments and a little patience, you can help your furry friend feel better and prevent future issues.
Max is now thriving, and I’m so grateful I took the time to learn about this. I hope sharing my journey helps you and your pup as well.