Expert: Nicole - 11/9/2008

Question
We have a 5 year old bassett.  We have had him for 3 months now.  I didn't know what kind of food to feed him so I asked the guy at the pet store.  The name brand is Natural Choice (lamb & rice).  I also was giving him treats of fruits and vegetable, plus freezed dried chicken.  I had to take him to the doctor because he had an anal gland infection, the doctor said it could be because of his diet.  What am I doing wrong?

Answer
Hi Ruth,

It 'could' be because of his diet...it may not be.  :)  The anal glands are basically scent markers that coat the feces in that dog's scent.  If your dog has consistently loose stools, there could be a problem emptying the sacs because the dog doesn't have to exert as much pressure to defecate.  It can also be caused by overactive anal glands or too small gland openings, a bacterial infection or obesity.

If your BH's stools aren't firm and nicely formed, it probably is the food.  Your first step would be to cut out the treats for a week and see if that makes a difference.  You can use his kibble for treats throughout the day instead.

If it doesn't, switching the food may help.  Your vet would be able to best advise you on a higher fiber food (fiber bulks up the feces) or a more nutritious food for your particular dog.

If his feces are firm and well-formed, I would look to causes other than the diet and tell you that you aren't doing anything 'wrong'.  

In any case, once anal glands become infected, it's very important to keep an eye on the situation.  Recurring anal gland problems may lead to removal of the glands.  If he's having a problem you will typically notice scooting behavior.  Some dogs will also refuse to lift their tails.  If you notice any of these signs, he needs to be taken to the vet.  Having his anal sacs emptied at the beginning of a problem will prevent an infection.  :)

You may also want to contact the person or rescue you got him from and find out if there's any information on a history of the problem.

If you have any more questions, please let me know.