Dog Anal Gland Problems and Urination

Would very full anal glands prevent a small female poodle from completely emptying her bladder and thus lead to regression in house training?

Vet Comments on Bladder Emptying and Full Canine Anal Glands


Hello there,

It is possible that the discomfort associated with anal gland problems could prevent a dog from urinating normally. Another possibility is a urinary tract infection. Some anal gland conditions are associated with bacterial infections that can be transmitted via licking, scooting, etc. to the urinary tract. Very often, dogs with urinary tract infections experience such an urgency to eliminate that they will do so in the house.

Your veterinarian should be able to determine the reasons behind your dog’s inappropriate urinary behavior with a physical exam, urinalysis, and possibly some blood work or other diagnostic tests and come up with an appropriate treatment plan.



Best of luck,

Jennifer Coates, DVM