Originally posted by manda99
I have never heard of this before. Does everyone do this to their dogs? How do I know if my dog needs it? Do all dogs *need* it?
Not all dogs need it done. Some can release it naturally (like when they poop or sometimes when they get scarred) but some dogs can't do it without help. Some dog even need them removed!! The anal glands can get infected or plugged too.

If your dog needs the anal gland expressed, you'll notice them licking their anal area a lot, lose of hair around the anal area from chewing or scooting the bottom across the floor.

My dog lets me know by just starring at his butt like there is something bothering him.

If your dog need it done, just bring him to the vet. It is very quick procedure. It takes like 2 min. If a dog needs it done frequently vets sometime teaches the owner how to do it.

Hope that helps