What to Share Before Requesting Anal Gland Expression

Share Your Dog's History

Share your dog's history related to the anal glands:

• Whether your dog has had gland issues before.
• Whether a groomer or veterinarian has expressed the glands previously.
• Whether your dog has had infections, impactions, or abscesses.
• Whether your veterinarian has advised for or against grooming expression.

This history helps the groomer understand whether the service is appropriate. If your dog has a history of medical issues, the groomer may recommend veterinary care instead of grooming expression. Read our guide on what dog owners should know about anal gland expression.

Be honest and thorough — the groomer needs accurate information to make the right decision.

If you are considering anal gland expression for your dog, sharing relevant history helps the groomer assess whether the service is appropriate. Useful details include whether your dog has had anal gland expression before, whether your veterinarian has identified any anal gland issues, and whether your dog has had any recent changes in diet, stool, or behavior.

Also share whether your dog has been scooting, licking the rear area excessively, or showing any signs of discomfort. These observations help the groomer understand the situation. However, it is important to understand that if these signs are present, the groomer may advise you to contact your veterinarian first, as they can indicate a medical issue that requires veterinary attention rather than grooming expression.

The groomer assesses suitability before performing the service. If your dog is uncomfortable, anxious, or if the groomer observes anything unusual such as swelling or discharge, they will not proceed and will recommend veterinary care. Anal gland expression is not something every dog needs routinely, and it is never forced. Read our guide on anal gland concerns: questions for your groomer and veterinarian.

Describe Any Signs You Have Noticed

Describe any signs you have noticed:

• 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 help the groomer assess the situation. However, they do not automatically mean your dog needs grooming expression — they may indicate other issues. The groomer evaluates the signs and determines the appropriate course of action. Read our guide on anal gland concerns.

If the signs suggest a medical issue, the groomer will recommend veterinary care.

Share Veterinary Guidance

If your veterinarian has provided guidance, share it with the groomer:

• Whether your veterinarian has recommended grooming expression.
• Whether your veterinarian has advised against it.
• Whether your dog is being treated for a related condition.
• Any dietary or health recommendations from your veterinarian.

Veterinary guidance helps the groomer make an informed decision. If your veterinarian has advised against grooming expression, the groomer will respect that. If your veterinarian has recommended it, the groomer can perform the service if it is appropriate. Read our guide on anal gland concerns.

The groomer and veterinarian work together to support your dog's health.

Mention Your Dog's Size and Breed

Share your dog's size and breed. This is relevant because gland issues can be more common in certain sizes and breeds:

• Small breeds may be more prone to gland issues.
• Dogs with soft stools may have difficulty expressing the glands naturally.
• Some breeds have a higher incidence of gland problems.

This information helps the groomer assess suitability. However, size and breed alone do not determine whether the service is needed — the groomer considers the full picture, including history and signs. Read our guide on what dog owners should know.

The groomer makes an individualized assessment for your dog.

Understand the Groomer's Assessment

After you share the information, the groomer assesses whether the service is appropriate. The assessment considers:

• Your dog's history and signs.
• Veterinary guidance.
• Size, breed, and overall health.
• Whether the service is safe and appropriate for this dog.

The groomer will tell you whether they will perform the service. If it is not appropriate, they will explain why and may recommend veterinary care. If it is appropriate, they will perform it safely during the visit. Read our guide on what dog owners should know.

The groomer will not perform the service if it is not appropriate.

Do Not Request the Service Unnecessarily

Do not request anal gland expression if your dog does not need it. For healthy dogs, the glands function naturally, and manual expression is unnecessary. Routine expression when it is not needed can cause irritation.

If you are not sure whether your dog needs the service, ask the groomer. They can assess and advise. If your dog has no history of gland issues and no signs of discomfort, the service is likely not needed. Read our guide on anal gland concerns.

The groomer prioritizes your dog's well-being over performing an unnecessary service.

Do Not Attempt Expression at Home

If you are concerned about your dog's glands, do not attempt to express them at home. Improper technique can cause pain, injury, or infection. Instead, schedule a grooming visit or consult your veterinarian.

The groomer has the training to perform the service safely when it is appropriate. If the service is not appropriate, the groomer will let you know. Read our guide on what dog owners should know.

Home expression is not safe and is not a substitute for professional care.

How to Request the Service

To request anal gland expression, call (407) 775-8865 or use our appointment-request form. Share your dog's breed, size, gland history, any signs you have noticed, and any veterinary guidance. The groomer assesses suitability and performs the service only if it is appropriate.

We serve the area from Deltona to Kissimmee, including Orlando and Altamonte Springs. Explore our anal gland expression page, our services overview, and our contact page.