Golden Retrievers are doggies that many people love! They have beautiful golden fur and are super nice and loyal. Just like people, dogs can get sick and need some help. Golden Retrievers should have their anal glands checked often to make sure they are healthy. Anal glands are special parts of a dog’s body that are near their tail. They make a smelly, oily stuff that helps dogs mark where they’ve been and talk to other doggies. Getting the glands “expressed” (or emptied) is important so a dog doesn’t get sick or feel bad. It’s best to have a grown-up show you how to do it because if you do it the wrong way, it might hurt the dog. If a dog scoots his bottom on the ground, licks or bites his tail, or smells funny, it might be a good time to have the glands checked. Each dog is different, so a big dog might need it more often than a small dog. If they don’t get checked, it can be bad for the dog and he might need to see a doctor. A healthy diet can also help keep the animal happy and comfortable. Keep an eye on your doggie and take care of him, and he’ll stay healthy and wag his tail happily!
