There are many reasons why a dog still smells after glands are expressed. However, this article will only address the 5 main reasons.
After reading this article:
- You will know why a dog still smells after glands are expressed. And,
- You will know what to do to stop the smell.
Ok, let the journey begin.
What Are Anal Glands?
The anal gland, also known as the rectal gland, is found close to the anus. It’s a little gland controlled by the anal sphincter and secretes a pungent-smelling fluid.
This fluid is released each time a dog defecates or urinates. It lubricates the dog’s stool and allows it to move smoothly along its rectum.
However, a dog might frequently secrete this fluid because of an overstuffed or damaged rectal gland and out of excitement.
Additionally, the smell of the glandular fluid is unique to each dog. So dogs use the fluid to mark their territories. In a sense, the aroma aids mutual identification between dogs.
Lastly, you must understand that no dog has control over when they secrete this fluid.
Now that you understand what an anal gland is let’s discuss why a dog still smells after glands are expressed.
5 Reasons Why A Dog Still Smells After Glands Are Expressed?
There are many reasons why a dog still smells after glands are expressed. Here are some:
Smell Caused by Feces Droplets
Typically, a dog smells when it has overstuffed glands. However, it’s frustrating and uncomfortable when a dog still smells after glands are expressed.
Interestingly, a dog can smell for up to 24 hours after defecating. The fishy smell is caused by feces sticking to the dog’s fur.
However, a dog doesn’t smell if it’s properly cleaned after defecating. Unfortunately, a clean butt doesn’t guarantee a dog won’t smell.
The Smell Won’t Go Away Quickly
Naturally, a dog smells after glands are expressed because the smell doesn’t go away quickly. So you need to be patient; the scent will gradually clear.
The Glands Are Not Completely Empty
Improperly cleared glands are another reason why a dog still smells after glands are expressed. Unfortunately, the pungent smell is from the remaining fluid in the dog’s anal sacs.
In this case, the dog needs to undergo another gland expression.
Their Glands Fill-up Fast
Here is the thing, all dogs have a slightly different physiological makeup. Unfortunately, there are dogs whose glands fill up fast. These types of dogs require regular gland expression.
Anal Gland Problem
Sadly, sometimes a dog might have issues with its anal gland. These issues may lead to the retention of glandular fluid or glands filling up fast. Unfortunately, only a veterinarian can discover the problem and proffer a solution.
4 Things to Do if Your Dog Still Smells After Glands Are Expressed
Here are 4 things you can do if your dog still smells after glands are expressed:
Observe Your Dog
Remember, the smell won’t go away immediately. You can only be patient and observe your dog for 24 hours in this situation.
Clean Your Dog Properly
Your dog may be smelling because it has feces stuck to its fur. So, before you panic, give the dog a good wash. You can visit the vet if the smell persists after 48 hours.
Ensure Proper Nutrition
This will not solve the issue immediately. However, you’ll be surprised how poor nutrition can contribute to a dog’s pungent smell.
Just make sure your dog’s meals are always nutritious. Also, a healthy meal prevents glandular issues. Additionally, dietary fiber helps improves digestion and softens your dog’s stool.
Visit the Vet
You might need to visit the vet if your dog still smells 48 hours after its glands are expressed. Maybe the expression wasn’t properly done, or there is an underlying issue with your dog’s glandular sacs. As always, the veterinarian will offer the greatest guidance.
Conclusion
It is normal for a dog to smell when its anal glands are full. However, this can be frustrating when you just had its gland expressed.
Sometimes, it’s an underlying issue with the anal gland causing the smell. Other times there is no problem. But remember, the pungent smell doesn’t go away quickly.
There you have it, the common reasons why a dog still smells after glands are expressed.
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