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Anal glands in dachshunds

Anal glands are two small scent sacs located beside the anus that normally empty during defecation. When secretions thicken or ducts become blocked, the sacs become impacted or infected, causing dachshunds significant discomfort, inflammation, and potential abscess formation if left untreated.

Signs to look for

Scooting the bottom across floors or grass
Persistent licking or chewing around the tail base
Pungent, fishy odour coming from the rear end
Discomfort or vocalisation when passing stools
Swelling, redness, or discolouration beside the anus
Blood or discharge visible on the fur or bedding

What you can do at home

Apply a warm, damp compress to the area for a few minutes to soothe irritation
Prevent your dog from constantly licking or chewing the area
Monitor stool consistency and ensure fresh drinking water is always available
Do not attempt to express the glands internally at home without training

Call the vet when

Visible puncture, open wound, or bursting abscess beside the anus
Blood, thick pus, or foul fluid draining from the rear
Severe pain, crying, or defensive aggression when the area is approached
Persistent scooting or irritation lasting more than two days

Prevention

Maintain firm stool consistency through appropriate dietary fibre
Keep your dog at a healthy body weight
Promptly investigate and manage soft stools or recurrent diarrhoea
Avoid routine, unnecessary manual expressions unless advised by your vet

Why dachshunds in particular

Small breeds like dachshunds have narrow anal gland ducts that can block easily, especially if their stools are soft or if poor muscle tone prevents natural emptying during toileting.

Sources

General information in our own words. It does not replace advice from your own vet.

Facts are cited and rewritten in our own words. All sources and how we use them.