2 ms·
What I mean is that dogs have anal glands that need to release really awful smelling fluids, probably what you and your other dogs are noticing. When it happens
by eyelidlessness 5y ago
What I mean is that dogs have anal glands that need to release really awful smelling fluids, probably what you and your other dogs are noticing. When it happens naturally you will see a drip if you watch your dog do the deuce.
The uneven distribution is that not all dogs do it naturally, some need occasional assistance (you can do it but I’d recommend a quick/cheap vet visit, it’s gross and a bit of finesse). Some dogs just don’t get it done naturally and need that assistance on a regular cadence.
The health implication besides being a natural bodily process is that if it backs up, the whole solid waste system backs up.
Edit: don’t be overly worried, but do be attentive. If you see butt scooting this is probably what’s going on. (If it’s not it might be something more serious like a tapeworm. But I doubt that from what you described.)
And dogs are very attuned to the scent. If you smell it too it’s probably a good idea to go let a vet nurse squeeze out your pup’s anal glands. It’ll be a relief for pup and not at all traumatic.
- nate_meurer 5y agoIf needed, dogs will perform their own anal gland expression by sitting, pulling their hind legs up, and wiping their butt across your carpet. My dogs like to look at me when they do this like it's a fucking joke. I've seen videos on youtube of people expressing a dog's anal glands, but I myself have never once been able to do it. There must be a special technique that I just can't get.
- yebyen 5y agoOur dog had an ingrown corkscrew tail (English Bulldog) which was amputated (laser surgery!) and anyway, I'm telling you this because our groomer does anal expression and said at first, it wasn't working for her because there was no tail to grab onto. There is definitely a technique, but for $5 or $10 extra at the grooming appointment I think I can afford to go a while longer yet before I try to figure it out for myself - I mean, I know you can go on YouTube and learn pretty much anything but I just can't see myself...