Put on disposable gloves
Lift your dog’s tail gently
Look for swelling, redness, or irritation around the anus
Check for scooting or excessive licking of the rear
Watch for a foul, fishy odor
Feel gently for small firm sacs at about the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions around the anus
Check for pain, heat, or discharge
Note any difficulty sitting or defecating
Compare both sides for uneven fullness
Contact a veterinarian if the glands seem impacted, infected, or painful