My dog needs her anal glands expressed every week or two… is that normal?

Vet Issues
1

Age: 4 or 5
Sex: Female - spayed
Breed: Chihuahua mix
Weight: 11lbs

Hi everyone! I adopted my dog about 4 months ago, and since then, I’ve noticed that she likely has a chicken allergy. I switched her to Hill’s Science Diet with Pollock, and it seems to be helping with her itching.

The main issue is her anal glands fill up pretty quickly. She’s on Glandex and pumpkin, but I still find myself needing to express them every 1-2 weeks. I don’t mind doing it, and she seems relieved after, but I’m wondering if this frequency is normal or if it could cause any issues over time.

Is there anything else I can try to help her with anal gland health?

2

When you say you have to express them, does she show signs like licking or scooting?

3

Chen said:
When you say you have to express them, does she show signs like licking or scooting?

Yes, she licks occasionally, not excessively, but I can tell she’s uncomfortable. I usually do it about every two weeks. She only scoots if it’s been a while since the last time.