What is the gland under a dog's tail called? - briefly
The gland under a dog's tail is known as the anal sac or anal gland. These small structures are located on either side of the anus and are responsible for producing a strong-smelling liquid that dogs use for marking their territory.
What is the gland under a dog's tail called? - in detail
The anal sac, also known as the anal gland, is a small pair of structures located on either side of a dog's anus, just inside the rectum. These sacs are essential for communication and marking territory among dogs. They secrete a pungent liquid that dogs use to mark their environment, leaving their scent behind.
The anal sacs typically empty naturally when a dog defecates, but sometimes they can become impacted or infected. If this occurs, the dog may exhibit symptoms such as scooting (dragging its bottom along the ground) or excessive licking of the area. In severe cases, the dog might have difficulty defecating or show signs of pain and discomfort.
Regularly checking and expressing the anal sacs can help prevent impaction and infection. This procedure is often performed by veterinarians during routine check-ups, but pet owners can also learn how to do it safely at home with proper guidance.