the aweful anal glands

[Melissa and Bearpaw]

Hi everyone! I think it is time that I ask for some advise when it comes to goldendoodle anal glands. I have done so much research that I now have no idea what works and what doesn't. So many websites say different things. If you have had any issues with your doodle and have found a solution that has worked will you please guide me in the right direction?

Thank You!

Melissa & Bear

[Cindy and Olive (Ollie)]

I agree with Stella about the fiber!

[Melissa and Bearpaw]

Thank you! :)

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

Just an FYI -- Rice is a grain.  

[Doris]

Bodi's groomer deals with his anal glands.  My vet asked about this and said I shouldn't have the groomer do - she is probably doing it wrong, etc. but when he examined Bodi he had to admit that they were "fine".  I have continued to let the groomer deal with this and Bodi has had zero problems.  When I was very young we had a GSP - she had infected anal glands several times . . . I guess some dogs have problems and others don't!?

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Most groomers express the glands externally, which can cause problems. If the glands need to be manually expressed, it needs to be done internally. My vet also told me not to have it done at the groomer's, for that reason. 

It is true that some dogs have more trouble with anal gland issues than others. 

[Cindy and Olive (Ollie)]

If you want to try adding fiber, mashed (microwaved) sweet potato is easy and nutritious.
My vet said about his glands (when Rip was super young) to never touch them and all should take care of itself naturally with regular bm's. I'm curious what foodies will say... Sure you'll get great advice there.

[Jennifer and Jack]

My little guy Jack just had an anal gland Infection, he had his flushed out and cleaned as well as oral antibiotics. Our vet recommended Something called Glandex.....I just use a 1/4 teaspoon on his food.....since we just finished his antibiotics I can't tell yet if it works but his tiny hiney smells better !

[Melissa and Bearpaw]

If you don't mind, let me know if you notice that stuff working over time. I'll keep it in mind if I have any more problems!

[Lynda Kamrath]

Well, I think it is true that some dogs have some problems with expressing their anal glands and others do not.  I had the vet show me how to do the expression and do it as a part of their bath.  The dog who has frequent baths also has the biggest problem with his anal glands.  He also had a foxtail in his anal gland when he was found on the streets and taken into rescue.  It really depends on the dog and I do have the bath water and shampoo readily available as I express the glands.  Sometimes it actually squirts out and you don't want to be standing nearby.  Point him in the direction you would like the yuck to squirt.  It is just part of dog ownership and definitely beats cleaning the sheaf on a horse's penis.

[Melissa and Bearpaw]

It's only been a few days but since I switched him over to lamb and rice he is feeling better. The excessive scrstching and licking has stopped. He hasn't been licking his butt either and I haven't smelled rotten fish. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the food he is on now solved the problem.