Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Male | neutered | 8 years and 3 months old | 92 lbs
Rocky, boxer, 8 y.o., neutered 6 most ago, active, eats well, has food allergies managed by food choices, eats Exeed , lamb and rice. Rocky has smelly discharge from his rectum, a few times a day has compulsive leaking of his groin area and anus. 2 other our dogs also lick Rocky's anus and sniff it for some time, but do not do it to each other.
3 Answers

Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on April 10th, 2017
Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on July 18th, 2017
It's true that dogs can sometimes develop anal gland issues (either infections, or overly full glands) that can cause discomfort and a strong odor in this area - for some dogs, this may mean that they spend a lot of time sniffing or licking at their anus. This is not a life-threatening issue at all, more of a minor annoyance in most cases :) If you're concerned, I would recommend taking Bruno to your vet to have his anal glands checked - he may need to have them expressed if they are overly full or uncomfortable.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on December 4th, 2018
I think you are right to suspect an infection as the signs you described may be compatible with it.
A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed.
Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. Please find the time to give us a feedback about the consultation as that will be used to improve our service.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful