Anal gland problems are a very common and frustrating issue for dog owners. Scooting, excessive licking, strong smells and repeated trips to the vet to have glands emptied are often seen as “normal”, but in many cases the underlying cause is diet.
Dogs’ anal glands are designed to empty naturally when they pass a firm, well-formed stool. When stools are too soft, the glands do not empty properly and begin to fill, leading to discomfort and ongoing problems.
Why Kibble and Wet Food Can Make Anal Gland Problems Worse
Many dogs with anal gland issues are fed kibble or wet food. These diets are often:
- Highly processed
- High in carbohydrates and fillers
- Difficult for some dogs to digest
- Likely to cause soft or bulky stools
Soft stools do not apply enough pressure to naturally empty the anal glands. Wet food can sometimes make stools even softer, which may worsen scooting and discomfort rather than improve it.
How Raw Feeding Can Help Anal Gland Problems
A properly balanced raw diet supports digestion very differently. Raw feeding often leads to:
- Better digestion
- Smaller, firmer stools
- Reduced scooting and licking
- Improved overall gut health
Firm stools help the anal glands empty naturally, which is why many dogs see long-term improvement once digestion is supported correctly.
What About Natural Supplements?
Natural supplements can help support anal gland health, but they work best alongside the correct diet, not instead of it.
- Fibre supplements alone may not solve the problem
- Supplements should support digestion, not mask symptoms
- Diet is always the foundation
How Wild Tails Helps Dogs With Anal Gland Problems
At Wild Tails, we help dogs with anal gland issues every day. We don’t guess or offer quick fixes — we take the time to understand the full picture.
We look at:
- What your dog is currently eating
- Stool consistency and frequency
- Previous anal gland problems or vet visits
- Treats, chews and feeding routine
From this, we can:
- Recommend a more suitable diet (often raw or natural alternatives)
- Advise on correct feeding amounts
- Suggest appropriate natural supplements where needed
- Support you throughout the transition
We always listen, answer questions and guide you step by step to help your dog feel more comfortable long term.
Repeated vet draining may give short-term relief, but improving digestion through diet is often the key to lasting change.