Glossary
Anal sacs
Two scent pouches beside a dog's anus that can become full, infected or blocked, causing scooting and licking.
Also called: anal glands, anal gland problems, scooting, impacted anal glands, expressing glands
Dogs have two small scent sacs, one on each side of the anus, that normally empty a little fluid each time the dog passes stool. The fluid has a strong smell that other dogs read as a signature. If the sacs do not empty well, they can become full, impacted, infected or form an abscess.
Signs include scooting on the floor, licking or biting under the tail, a fishy smell, straining to pass stool and, with an abscess, swelling or a sore beside the anus. Small dogs and overweight dogs are more likely to have trouble, as can dogs with allergies or soft stool.
A veterinarian or an experienced groomer can empty the sacs, but repeated trouble should be examined by a vet, who looks for the cause. Constant scooting can also be a sign of worms.
Last reviewed November 8, 2026