The best dog food for anal gland issues–including diets and supplements–should include ingredients that support healthy anal gland function. A balanced diet plays a crucial role in your dog’s health, including managing anal gland health and preventing issues like anal sacculitis (inflammation of the anal sacs).

The leading causes of anal gland impaction are small, insignificant bowel movements that aren’t bulky enough to empty the anal glands as they pass through the rectum. Once the anal glands become impacted, anal sacculitis (inflammation of the anal glands) and, in untreated cases, anal gland infection can occur. 

To prevent small bowel movements and bulk up your pet’s stool, upping your dog’s fiber intake is a great place to start. Talk with your veterinarian about the amount of fiber that’s right for your dog, or follow the dosage instructions for an over the counter dog fiber supplement. You can also explore advanced fiber supplements for dogs if your dog has stubborn or recurring cases of anal gland impaction. 

If you’re interested in home remedies for dog scooting caused by anal gland issues, take a look at your dog’s diet and try to identify what could be missing. Foods with dietary fiber, enzymes, and probiotics can have noticeable positive effects on anal gland health. 

Wondering how to help dogs express glands naturally? The following foods are a great place to start:

Pumpkin is a food that may help dogs express their glands naturally. It contains fiber, which promotes regular bowel movements and aids in natural expression of the anal glands. You can mix canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars) with your dog's food for added fiber.

Sweet potato is another excellent choice for dog food for anal glands. It's rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, providing overall digestive health benefits.

In addition to being a tasty snack for dogs, apples are also a great food to help dogs express glands. They contain pectin, a soluble fiber that supports healthy digestion and bowel movements.

Wheat germ is a concentrated source of fiber and essential nutrients like vitamin E. Adding a small amount to your dog's food can aid in how to help your dog express glands naturally. Be sure to ask your veterinarian for the proper dosage, as vitamin E can accumulate in the body and cause adverse effects if given in too high of a quantity.

Flaxseed is a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. It promotes gastrointestinal health and is one of the foods to help dogs express glands naturally.

Rice bran is a gentle fiber source that can help regulate bowel movements, bulk your dog’s stool, and assist in expressing the anal glands naturally.

Carrots are crunchy, low-calorie snacks that can also be a beneficial dog food for anal glands. They’re rich in fiber and promote healthy digestion.

Certain dogs are more prone to anal gland issues and can benefit significantly from a diet rich in fiber. These include:

Dogs with recurrent anal gland problems can benefit from fiber-rich foods.

Colitis, inflammation of the colon, can be managed with a high-fiber diet.

Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, aiding dogs with chronic diarrhea.

Some dogs with allergies may benefit from a diet focused on digestive health, including fiber-rich foods.

Fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining anal gland health by:

• Promoting regular bowel movements, which helps in expressing the glands naturally.

• Preventing constipation, which can lead to glandular issues.

• Supporting overall digestive health and reducing inflammation.

In addition to catering your dog’s diet for anal gland wellness, you can also consider using supplements specifically formulated to support anal gland health in dogs. Choose a formula that contains natural ingredients like pumpkin seed, omega fatty acids, and probiotics to promote healthy anal gland function every day.

If you notice more than just a stinky odor and scooting–such as a redness or swelling around the rear end–be sure to have your pet seen immediately at their veterinarian. This could indicate an abscess or infection is present which will require more treatment than diet or supplements alone.

A diet for anal glands rich in fiber and nutrients can go a long way in helping your dog express glands naturally and maintain overall digestive wellness. Incorporating these foods into your dog’s meals can help them to express their glands, but consulting with your veterinarian is the best way to get personalized dietary recommendations for your unique pet.