Understanding the Causes of a Fishy Smell in Dogs
Every dog has its own unique scent, but when your canine companion suddenly starts to emit a fishy odor, it's usually a sign that something's not quite right. While some odors are normal, a persistent or strong fishy smell often points to an underlying health issue that shouldn't be ignored. Let's explore the most common reasons for this unpleasant aroma and what you can do about it.
Anal Gland Issues: The Leading Culprit
The anal glands, or anal sacs, are two small pouches located on either side of your dog's rectum. They produce an oily secretion used for scent marking. Normally, these glands empty during defecation, releasing just enough liquid to do their job. But sometimes, things don't go as planned.
- If the glands don't empty properly, they can become impacted or infected, leading to a strong fishy smell—especially near your dog's rear end.
- Signs of trouble include scooting (dragging their bottom across the floor), excessive licking or biting at the area, discomfort when sitting, redness or swelling around the anus, and even blood or pus on the fur or in stool.
Anal gland problems are especially common in small breeds, overweight dogs, and those with allergies or soft stools. If left untreated, impacted glands may become infected or form abscesses that can rupture. Rarely, tumors can develop and block proper gland function.
Urinary Tract Infections and Other Urinary Problems
A fishy odor isn't always coming from the rear—it could be from your dog's urine. Urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly in female dogs, often cause urine to have a distinctly fishy smell due to bacterial overgrowth. Other signs include frequent urination, straining to pee, blood in the urine, and accidents in the house.
- Vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina) and pyometra (a serious uterine infection) in unspayed females may also produce a similar odor around the genital area.
If you notice these symptoms along with the odor, prompt veterinary care is essential.
Mouth Odor: Dental and Oral Health Problems
If your dog's breath smells like fish—or just plain foul—it could point to dental disease. Plaque buildup, tartar accumulation, gingivitis (gum inflammation), tooth decay, or oral abscesses all contribute to bad breath that sometimes takes on a fishy note.
- Other clues include decreased appetite, drooling more than usual, difficulty chewing food, swollen gums, or dropping food while eating.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings go a long way toward preventing these issues.
Skin Infections Can Smell Fishy Too
Your dog's skin is another possible source of strange odors. Bacterial or yeast infections, especially in dogs with skin folds or allergies, can create unpleasant (and sometimes fishy) smells. Look for redness, swelling, itching, hair loss, scabs, or discharge along with any unusual scent.
- Treatment usually involves medicated shampoos and topical or oral medications prescribed by your veterinarian.
The Role of Diet and Digestion
Sometimes what goes into your dog comes out as an odd smell. Foods high in fish or certain proteins might rarely cause a temporary body odor. More commonly though, digestive problems or food allergies alter your dog's natural scent. If you notice changes along with vomiting or diarrhea, check with your vet before making any dietary adjustments.
Troubleshooting: What To Do If Your Dog Smells Like Fish
- Try to pinpoint where the smell is coming from: mouth? skin? rear end? urine?
- Look for other symptoms like scooting behavior, licking/biting at themselves excessively, changes in urination habits or appetite.
- If you see blood/pus/discharge; lumps/swelling; signs of pain; or if the smell persists—contact your veterinarian promptly.
Treatment Options and Prevention Tips
- Anal gland issues: Glands may need manual expression by your vet/groomer; dietary fiber additions; regular exercise; weight management; sometimes surgery for chronic cases.
- Urinary/reproductive infections: Typically treated with antibiotics; pyometra may require surgery.
- Dental/oral disease: Professional cleanings plus home dental care (brushing teeth/dental chews).
- Skin infections: Medicated baths/topical treatments as directed by your vet.
You can help prevent future problems by:
- Keeing up with regular grooming and skin care routines
- Maintaining a balanced diet with enough fiber
- Sustaining healthy weight through exercise
- Pursuing routine dental hygiene practices
A Note on Stress-Related Gland Expression
If your dog empties their anal glands when frightened or stressed (for example during thunderstorms), this can be normal unless it happens frequently. Chronic odors always warrant professional evaluation to avoid discomfort and prevent complications down the line.
The Bottom Line: Addressing That Fishy Smell
A fishy-smelling dog is usually easy to help once you identify what's causing it. Anal gland impaction tops the list of suspects—but don't overlook urinary tract issues, dental problems, skin infections or even diet changes as possible sources. With attentive care and guidance from your vet when needed, most dogs return quickly to their sweet-smelling selves!
