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Why does my dog cry during anal gland expression? Can I give him pain meds?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 7 years and 3 months old | 14 lbs

My 7 yr. old chug has to have anal glands drained periodically, they take him in a back room away from me and he cries horribly from the pain. Is this method of procedure normal? I read on your site that they are typically sedated because of the pain involved. I'm concerned for him. Also, while waiting for an appointment ( vet depends on the answer to above question) can I give him Tylenol or Ibuprofen to ease his discomfort?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on February 16th, 2020

Hi there. Expressing the anal glands is not overly painful unless they are badly infected, and does not normally require sedation. But it can definitely be uncomfortable, so it's not unusual for pets to vocalize when it's done - just like for other minor procedures like vaccinations, nail trims, or blood draws.

No, it is not safe to give any over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol or ibuprofen to dogs. If this is a common problem for your dog, you could ask your veterinarian about having some type of pain medication on hand at home for these situations.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on October 18th, 2018
You can also add canned pumpkin (not pie filling) to his diet. The more often you express the glands manually, the more irritated they get and this will impact their function. Anal sacs (glands) should only be expressed by a veterinarian who can check whether they need expressing. They should not be expressed by the owner or a groomer. They should only be expressed when actually needed. External expression is not correct, it bruises tissue and can cause infection and inflammation. Internal expression by a veterinarian who can assess the condition of the anal sacs as well as the grade of filling and any condition whether it is normal or not, is the proper way.
You can also try giving a supplement called Glandex.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 26th, 2017
Do not give him any over the counter human pain relievers, like Advil and Tylenol, as they are toxic to dogs. The best thing would be to have your vet take a look at him to determine the source of his discomfort. He could have a problem with his anal glands or possibly his tail or back. Your vet can do an examination and then prescribe medications to treat. He may need an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and/or pain medications.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Priyanka Thakkar, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 19th, 2017
Since there is an open wound, you should have Sammie seen by your veterinarian for antibiotics and pain medications. An infected an anal gland is typically very painful.
Until you can get in to see your veterinarian, keep the area clean with a warm wash cloth.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Is it normal for my dog to scream during anal gland expression?

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Is irritation normal after dog anal gland expression? What can I do?

Hi there, It's normal for there to be mild redness after an expression of the anal glands. This should resolve in the next few days. Since there is no infection, you can use a small amount of vasoline as an emollient cream to help protect his skin barrier. An ice pack would fine as well if he enjoys it, but he may not. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

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