I just got a three-and-a-half-month-old Toy Fox Terrier puppy. She sometimes will give a yelp when she goes potty. I talked to the vet’s office over the phone for a stool sample result. (Previously had worms, now they are gone) They said that it could be her anal glands. I have never heard of this until a couple years ago from some dog owners. For years, I don't think dogs ever went to the vet to have the glands released. Why is it such a common thing now? I asked the vet office how often a dog would need this kind of thing done, and they said they have some that go in once a month and some toy dogs that even go once a week. I can't believe people do this that often, not to mention the cost. Can you inform me more on this? Also, what is the best diet to prevent them?

Thank you.

Linda Nicholson 

Dear Linda,

There are several conditions that can cause crying with defecation. All the crying indicates is that there is inflammation in the rectum or colon. This can be a result of food allergies, parasites, bacteria, and many other things. Before I blamed the anal glands, if you were my client, I would try a course of treatment with metronidazole, which helps many of these conditions, and to be safe, I would also be sure you are giving a good dewormer according to your vet’s puppy schedule.

Although anal gland problems are not very common in puppies, if the crying goes away every time after the anal glands are expressed, that could be the problem. In adult dogs, increasing the dietary fiber does help prevent anal gland impactions. This can be accomplished by adding a small amount of Metamucil or canned pumpkin to the food. Most normal dogs express their own anal glands during defecation, with no need of help, so I only recommend expressing them if we have proof that that is the problem.

The other conditions that can cause rectal inflammation are much rarer in puppies, but if the crying continues even after anal gland expression, a sedated rectal exam may be informative.

Dr. Weaver

About Dr. Sherry Weaver
Dr. Weaver graduated with honors from the University of Georgia's School of Veterinary Medicine.  She founded a state-of-the-art animal hospital, teaches pet care to children, and donates time and resources to rescue organizations. For her full biography, click here.