Anal sac disorders in dogs happen for a number of reasons, including the fluid in the anal sacs becoming impacted, the anal sacs developing abscesses, or the anal sacs becoming inflamed. These disorders can often result in the dog seeming to scoot around on the floor.
Anal sac disorders also seem to affect certain smaller breeds of dog more frequently than larger canines.
If you see signs that your dog might be suffering from any of these disorders, then you must consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and course of treatment. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of anal sac disorders in dogs.
Symptoms Of Anal Sac Disorders In Dogs
Anal sac disorders in dogs can lead to a number of different symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Scooting along the floor
- Scratching around the anal sac area
- Discharge from the anal sacs
- Difficulties defecating
Causes Of Anal Sac Disorders In Dogs
The cause of anal sac disorders in dogs can be a number of things. A dog’s anal sacs are located on each side of the anus, and the anal glands fill them with fluid that dogs then use to mark territory.
Some of the common causes of anal sac disorders include:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- A lack of anal muscle tone
- Tumors on the anal glands
- Allergies
Additionally, body size seems to affect the chances of a dog developing these disorders. Smaller dog breeds, including Shih Tzus, Toy Poodles, and Chihuahuas, are more likely to suffer from an anal sac disorder than larger dog breeds.
Treatments For Anal Sac Disorders In Dogs
If you suspect that your dog might be suffering from an anal sac disorder, your veterinarian will want to carry out a full physical examination, which will include checking to see if the anal glands have become enlarged.
Vets also often use blood, fecal, and urine tests to diagnose the disorder and determine a cause.
Treatment can often involve changes to a dog’s diet, such as adding more fiber to mealtimes. Vets may also try draining the dog’s anal sacs, along with considering surgically removing the anal sacs if the problem is severe.
Many times, vets will prescribe antibiotics to treat the issue. If your vet prescribes antibiotics for your dog, it is vital that you stick to the recommended dosage and frequency instructions along with completing the full course of medication.
Has your dog ever suffered from an anal sac disorder? How did your vet treat the issue? Tell us all about it in the comments below.
