What Dog Owners Should Know About Anal Gland Expression
September 2026 • 6 min read
What anal gland expression is, why suitability must be assessed, and why it is not necessary for every dog — an educational overview for dog owners.
Anal gland expression is a grooming service that some dog owners request as part of their dog's hygiene care. At Oscar Pets Mobile, it is one of the eight individual services you can request alongside any grooming package. Suitability must be assessed — it is not necessary or appropriate for every dog, and it is not a routine procedure that every dog needs. This article provides an educational overview of what dog owners should know. We serve the area from Deltona to Kissimmee; call (407) 775-8865.
What Anal Gland Expression Is
Dogs have two small anal glands located near the anus. These glands naturally produce a fluid that is normally expressed during defecation. Anal gland expression is a grooming service in which the groomer manually expresses these glands to release the fluid.
At Oscar Pets Mobile, anal gland expression is an individual service. You can request it alongside any grooming package — Bath Service, Mini Grooming, or Full Grooming. Suitability is assessed before the service is performed.
See the anal gland expression page for the official details. Read our individual services overview to understand how it relates to the packages.
Why Suitability Must Be Assessed
Not every dog needs anal gland expression. For many dogs, the glands express naturally during defecation, and manual expression is not necessary. The groomer assesses suitability based on:
- Whether the dog has a history of gland issues.
- Whether the owner has noticed signs of discomfort.
- The dog's size, breed, and overall health.
- Whether the service is appropriate for this dog.
The groomer will not perform the service if it is not appropriate. If your dog has persistent gland issues, the groomer may recommend consulting your veterinarian. Anal gland expression is a grooming service, not a treatment for medical conditions. Read our guide on anal gland concerns: questions for your groomer and veterinarian.
Why It Is Not for Every Dog
Anal gland expression is not a routine procedure that every dog needs. For healthy dogs, the glands function naturally, and manual expression is unnecessary. Routine expression when it is not needed can cause irritation.
The service is typically relevant for dogs who have difficulty expressing the glands naturally. This can be more common in small breeds, dogs with soft stools, or dogs with a history of gland issues. However, even for these dogs, the groomer assesses suitability before performing the service.
Do not assume your dog needs anal gland expression. The groomer confirms whether it is appropriate. Read our guide on what to share before requesting anal gland expression.
Signs That May Warrant a Conversation
Some signs may indicate that your dog is experiencing gland discomfort. If you notice any of these, mention them to the groomer and consider consulting your veterinarian:
- Scooting (dragging the rear on the ground).
- Excessive licking or biting at the rear.
- Discomfort when sitting.
- A noticeable odor.
- Redness or swelling near the anus.
These signs do not automatically mean your dog needs anal gland expression — they may indicate other issues. The groomer and your veterinarian can help determine the cause. Do not attempt to express the glands at home. Read our guide on anal gland concerns.
Do Not Attempt This at Home
Anal gland expression should be performed by a professional. Do not attempt to express your dog's glands at home. Improper technique can cause pain, injury, or infection. If you are concerned about your dog's glands, schedule a grooming visit or consult your veterinarian.
The groomer has the training and experience to perform the service safely when it is appropriate. If the groomer determines the service is not suitable, they will let you know and may recommend veterinary care. Read our guide on what to share before requesting the service.
Leave this procedure to professionals.
How It Relates to the Packages
Anal gland expression is an individual service, not part of the grooming packages. You can add it to any package if the groomer confirms it is appropriate. The packages include:
- Bath Service: bath, ear cleaning, nail trimming, accessory, perfume finish.
- Mini Grooming: everything in Bath Service plus sanitary and paw-area care.
- Full Grooming: everything in Mini Grooming plus a haircut.
Read our guide on one specific grooming need or a complete package to understand when to add it. The team can help you decide based on your dog's needs.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If your dog has persistent gland issues — recurring discomfort, infection, or impaction — consult your veterinarian. Anal gland expression by a groomer is a hygiene service, not a treatment for medical conditions. Your veterinarian can diagnose and treat underlying issues.
Signs that warrant veterinary attention include persistent scooting, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor that does not resolve. The groomer may also recommend veterinary care if they notice concerns during the visit. Read our guide on anal gland concerns.
Your veterinarian is the right resource for medical concerns related to the glands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is anal gland expression?
It is a grooming service in which the groomer manually expresses the anal glands to release fluid. It is an individual service you can add to any package.
Does every dog need it?
No. For many dogs, the glands express naturally. The service is not necessary or appropriate for every dog. The groomer assesses suitability.
Is it included in the packages?
No. It is an individual service you can request alongside any package if the groomer confirms it is appropriate.
Should I express my dog's glands at home?
No. Anal gland expression should be performed by a professional. Improper technique can cause pain, injury, or infection.
What signs might indicate gland discomfort?
Scooting, excessive licking at the rear, discomfort when sitting, odor, or redness. Mention these to the groomer and consider consulting your veterinarian.
When should I consult a veterinarian?
If your dog has persistent gland issues — recurring discomfort, infection, or impaction — consult your veterinarian. Grooming expression is not a treatment for medical conditions.
How does the groomer decide if it is appropriate?
The groomer considers the dog's history, signs of discomfort, size, breed, and overall health. They will not perform the service if it is not appropriate.
How do I request the service?
Mention it when you book. Share your dog's breed, size, gland history, and any signs. The groomer assesses suitability. Call (407) 775-8865. Anal gland expression is a service that some dog owners request during grooming. It is not necessary for every dog, and suitability should be assessed. If you notice your dog scooting, licking excessively, or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian. These may indicate an issue that requires medical attention. The groomer can discuss whether anal gland expression is appropriate for your dog. Anal gland expression is a service that some dog owners request during grooming. It is not necessary for every dog, and suitability should be assessed by the groomer based on your dog's size, health, and history. If you notice your dog scooting, licking excessively at the rear, or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian. These signs may indicate an issue that requires medical attention, including impaction or infection. The groomer can discuss whether anal gland expression is appropriate for your dog, but grooming does not replace veterinary care for anal gland problems. Share any observations or veterinary notes when you book. Anal gland expression is a service that some dog owners request during grooming. It is not necessary for every dog, and suitability should be assessed by the groomer based on your dog's size, health, and history. If you notice your dog scooting, licking excessively at the rear, or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian. These signs may indicate an issue that requires medical attention, including impaction or infection. The groomer can discuss whether anal gland expression is appropriate for your dog, but grooming does not replace veterinary care for anal gland problems. Share any observations or veterinary notes when you book. Anal gland expression is a service that some dog owners request during grooming. It is not necessary for every dog, and suitability should be assessed by the groomer based on your dog's size, health, and history. If you notice your dog scooting, licking excessively at the rear, or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian. These signs may indicate an issue that requires medical attention, including impaction or infection. The groomer can discuss whether anal gland expression is appropriate for your dog, but grooming does not replace veterinary care for anal gland problems. Share any observations or veterinary notes when you book. Anal gland expression is a service that some dog owners request during grooming. It is not necessary for every dog, and suitability should be assessed by the groomer based on your dog's size, health, and history. If you notice your dog scooting, licking excessively at the rear, or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian. These signs may indicate an issue that requires medical attention, including impaction or infection. The groomer can discuss whether anal gland expression is appropriate for your dog, but grooming does not replace veterinary care for anal gland problems. Share any observations or veterinary notes when you book. Anal gland expression is a service that some dog owners request during grooming. It is not necessary for every dog, and suitability should be assessed by the groomer based on your dog's size, health, and history. If you notice your dog scooting, licking excessively at the rear, or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian. These signs may indicate an issue that requires medical attention, including impaction or infection. The groomer can discuss whether anal gland expression is appropriate for your dog, but grooming does not replace veterinary care for anal gland problems. Share any observations or veterinary notes when you book. Anal gland expression is a service that some dog owners request during grooming. It is not necessary for every dog, and suitability should be assessed by the groomer based on your dog's size, health, and history. If you notice your dog scooting, licking excessively at the rear, or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian. These signs may indicate an issue that requires medical attention, including impaction or infection. The groomer can discuss whether anal gland expression is appropriate for your dog, but grooming does not replace veterinary care for anal gland problems. Share any observations or veterinary notes when you book.
Ready to Discuss anal gland expression?
Want to discuss whether anal gland expression is appropriate for your dog? Contact Oscar Pets Mobile at (407) 775-8865 or send an appointment request. Our team will assess your dog's needs and provide a personalized quote.
This article provides general grooming education and does not replace advice from your veterinarian. Grooming needs and product suitability vary by pet. Contact Oscar Pets Mobile to discuss your dog's needs and appointment availability.
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