What are the anal glands or sacs?
The anal sacs are two small pouches situated on either side of, and a little below, the anus. They vary in size from a pea to a walnut. A small duct, or tube, leads from each to open at the anus. In their walls are numerous glands producing a secretion (very pungent and unpleasant smelling to us) that is stored in the sacs. When the dog passes a motion some of this liquid is squeezed out of the sacs to be deposited on the stool so that other dogs will be able to identify it.
