A dog’s anal glands function to lubricate the passage of stool along the rectum; it is also responsible for the distinct scent associated with dogs.

There are two anal glands located on each side of the rectal opening. Each gland secretes a brown, strong-smelling liquid substance. As stool passes through the area, the anal glands receive a small amount of pressure resulting in the release of the fluid along with the dog’s feces.

Dogs have also been known to secrete some of this distinct smelling substance when meeting other dogs. You may notice this when two dogs that have just met raise their tails, an action that applies pressure to the anal glands.

Although most dogs never seem to have a problem with their anal glands, there are cases when bacteria can flourish as a result of impaction of the gland. This is when the glands don’t express properly, leading to infection.

Ask your Mansfield vet regarding important pet issues. You can get more information here.