Okay, so your dog doesn’t exactly smell like roses. But lately, you’ve noticed a distinct fishy odor, and you’re wondering, “Why does my dog smell like fish?”
A persistent fishy smell coming from your dog isn’t normal, and it’s a signal that something’s going on. Common causes include anal gland issues, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and certain skin problems.
Identifying the source of the smell and seeking veterinary care is essential for your dog’s comfort and overall health. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to resolving the underlying problem and eliminating that unpleasant fishy smell.
What’s causing that fishy smell?
Here are a few possible reasons your dog might smell like fish:
Anal gland problems
Anal glands, or anal sacs, are small glands on either side of your dog’s anus that produce a secretion that acts as a scent marker when your dog poops.
Sometimes, these glands don’t drain properly, and the fluid inside gets thick and pasty. This is known as anal gland impaction, and it can be painful. Impacted anal glands can become infected or even develop into abscesses.
In rare cases, a dog may develop a tumor in an anal sac. These tumors can be cancerous, so it’s important to get them checked out right away.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections are common in dogs, especially female dogs. UTIs can cause your dog’s urine to have a distinct, sometimes fishy, odor because of the bacteria present in the urinary tract.
Skin issues and infections
Skin problems like yeast infections, bacterial infections, and allergies can cause unusual odors, including a fishy smell. These infections create an environment where bacteria and yeast can thrive, leading to foul smells.
Dental problems
If your dog has gum disease or tooth decay, bacteria can build up in the mouth and cause unpleasant odors. Regular dental care, including brushing your dog’s teeth and providing dental chews, is essential for preventing these issues.
Recognizing the Signs
If your dog smells like fish, it’s important to find the underlying cause. Here are a few things to look for:
- Anal sac problems: Dogs with anal sac issues may scoot their rear end along the ground, lick or bite near their tail, have trouble pooping, or vocalize when they poop.
- UTIs: If your dog has a urinary tract infection, they may need to pee more often. They may also strain while urinating or have blood in their urine.
- Skin infections: Redness, swelling, itchiness, and discharge can all be signs of a skin infection.
- Dental problems: Bad breath, excessive drooling, difficulty chewing, and tartar buildup can indicate dental disease.
Addressing the fishy smell: Treatment options
If your dog smells like a fish, the first thing to do is figure out what’s causing it so you can get it taken care of.
Veterinary consultation is key
It’s really important to talk with your vet to get a diagnosis. You’ll want to schedule an appointment so the vet can figure out what’s going on and recommend the right treatment.
The vet may do some tests to find out where the odor is coming from.
Treating anal gland problems
Sometimes, the vet will need to manually express the anal glands to relieve the odor.
Depending on what’s causing the problem, the vet may prescribe stool softeners, antiseptics, or antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be required.
Managing urinary tract infections
If the fishy smell is due to a UTI, the vet will probably prescribe antibiotics. You can also take steps to prevent future UTIs.
Resolving skin infections
Skin infections may need to be treated with topical or oral medications. If allergies are causing the problem, managing those allergies can help prevent future skin issues.
Dental care treatments
A professional dental cleaning under anesthesia is key for removing plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth. After that, regular brushing and dental chews can help keep their teeth clean.
How to stop your dog from smelling like fish
The best way to stop your dog from smelling like fish is to figure out what’s causing the smell. Here are some things you can do to manage your dog’s odor in the long term:
- Groom your dog regularly. Regular grooming helps remove loose hair and dirt that can trap odors.
- Consider your dog’s diet. A balanced diet is essential for your dog’s health and can play a role in odor management. Talk to your vet about whether you should change your dog’s diet if they are overweight or if they eat food that is fish-based.
- Keep their environment clean. Regularly wash your dog’s bedding and clean the areas where they spend the most time.
- Take your dog to the vet. Regular check-ups are essential for detecting health problems early.
In Closing
If your dog smells like fish, it’s important to figure out why so you can treat the problem effectively.
To prevent that fishy smell, groom your dog regularly, provide a balanced diet, and keep your dog’s environment clean. Good hygiene goes a long way.
If the smell persists or you’re concerned about your dog’s health, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. They can help you pinpoint the cause of the odor and recommend the best course of action.