Why is my dogs but fishy

The Real Reason Your Dog Smells Like Fish

Dogs can smell like many things, depending on what they have most recently rolled in, but one of the more unpleasant aromas dogs commonly develop is one of fish.

If your dog smells like fish, it is probably not because he figured out how to spray himself with Eau de Sardine. A fishy odor is usually the result of secretions from the anal glands.

What Are Anal Glands?

Anal glands, which are also called anal sacs, are small sacs located on either side of your dogs anus. These sacs are full of specialized sweat glands that produce an unpleasant smelling secretion that acts as a scent marker for your dog. When your dog poops, these secretions pass onto the feces, letting other dogs know important chemical information about your dog. This explains why your dog is so interested in other dogs poop, not to mention the tail sniffing that goes on when two dogs meet.

Dogs also express their anal sacs when they are scared, which is perfectly normal, if a bit odorous. Anal gland secretions have a distinct smell that many people describe as fishy. If your dog smells like fish, chances are there may be something going on with their anal glands. Luckily, there are ways to deal address the smell.

Anal Sac Disease

Anal sac disease, which is a term used to describe problems with the anal glands, is very common, particularly among small dog breeds. The largest dog breeds are not usually affected.

Impactions

Normally, your dogs anal glands are naturally expressed in small amounts each time she defecates. Sometimes, however, the anal sacs are not emptied completely of fluid, and the fluid becomes dry and causes impaction. Impacted anal sacs cannot express properly, which is very painful for your dog. The sacs feel hard to the touch, and when expressed manually by a veterinarian or other professional, produce a thin ribbon of pasty, brown material. If impacted anal glands arent treated, they can become abscessed.

Impactions can happen for several reasons. There could be an abnormality in your dogs anal sacs, or your dog could have soft stool, which is not firm enough to express your dogs anal glands when she defecates. Obese dogs are at an increased risk of impacted anal glands, as their sacs do not empty well.

Infections and Abscesses

Anal glands can also get infected, and in this case, they can also become abscessed if left untreated. Infected and abscessed anal sacs are very painful, and the area may appear discolored or swollen. If left untreated, these abscesses can rupture through the skin.

Abscesses need prompt attention, says Dr. Jerry Klein, AKC chief veterinary officer. They are painful and sometimes require surgery. The dog also usually needs antibiotics and pain medications.

Anal Sac Tumors

Anal gland tumors limit your dogs ability to express his anal glands himself, and they make the anal glands feel firm and enlarged. In most cases, anal sacs with tumors will not express at all, and your veterinarian may take a biopsy and perform an ultrasound to diagnose the problem.

Symptoms of Anal Sac Disease

There are other symptoms of anal sac disease besides a fishy smell. Dogs with irritated anal sacs may scoot on the floor, bite or lick at their anus, or have difficulty defecating. They may even vocalize when they defecate because it is painful. You might also feel a hard lump near the rectum, or notice blood and/or pus on your dogs stool. Although scooting is a fairly common sign that may seem laughable, it is a helpful symptom and warning of anal sac disease. If you notice any of these signs, or any discoloration around the anus, call your veterinarian and get your dog in for evaluation.

There are certain conditions your dog may have that can increase the chances of anal sac disease. These include: being overweight or obese, food and environmental allergies, hypothyroidism, skin mites, and bacterial or yeast infections of the skin.

What to Do About Your Dogs Fishy Smell

If you notice a fishy smell, call your veterinarian. Your dog may simply need his anal glands manually emptied, or expressed, which should resolve the odor.

Some dogs, especially small dog breeds, require that their anal glands be expressed regularly. Veterinarians and groomers both perform this service, and you can even learn how to do it yourself if you dont mind the odor. However, be aware that manually expressing the anal glands too frequently can cause inflammation and result in scar tissue, so it should only be done when they are not emptying naturally.

Compacted anal sacs require your veterinarians assistance. These are carefully expressed, and your veterinarian may need to use a softening agent or saline rinse if the compaction is particularly dry. Once the compacted material is removed, your veterinarian may recommend a higher fiber diet for your dog to help him express his anal sacs naturally.

There are also several anal gland wipes and supplements on the market, which are designed to address the underlying problems of anal gland issues in pets.

Infected or abscessed anal sacs are cleaned with an antiseptic and are then typically treated with antibiotics. Your veterinarian may recommend hot compresses applied to the area if she suspects an abscess, and it may take a few flushings for the infection to resolve.

In some cases, your veterinarian will remove the anal sac or sacs. Anal sac disease that does not resolve with treatment, as well as anal sac tumors, usually need to be dealt with by surgical removal. While there are potential complications, such as incontinence, most procedures are successful and do not negatively affect your dogs quality of life.

Preventing Anal Sac Disease

While anal sac disease is not always possible to prevent, there are a few things you can do.

• Feed your dog an appropriate diet with the right amount of fiber.
• Keep an eye on your dogs stool to make sure it is well-formed.
• Exercise your dog regularly and keep an eye on his weight.
• Provide your dog with plenty of fresh, clean water.

Luckily, anal sac problems are relatively easy to treat. Once the underlying issue is resolved, the fishy smell should go away. If your dog requires regular anal gland expression, that fishy smell is a reminder to get your dog into the veterinarians office or to the groomer.

Why Is My Dogs Breath Fishy? Common Causes and Solutions

If youve noticed your dogs breath smells fishy, you may be wondering whats causing the odor. While bad breath in dogs is common, a fishy smell is not normal and may indicate an underlying issue. Its important to understand the potential causes of fishy breath in dogs so you can take appropriate action.

There are several common causes of fishy breath in dogs, including dental issues, medical conditions, and diet. Dental problems such as periodontal disease or infected teeth can lead to bad breath, and certain medical conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes can also cause a fishy odor. Additionally, a diet high in fish or other seafood can contribute to fishy breath in dogs. Understanding the cause of your dogs fishy breath is key to finding a solution.

Key Takeaways

• Fishy breath in dogs may indicate an underlying issue and should be addressed.
• Dental issues, medical conditions, and diet can all contribute to fishy breath in dogs.
• Identifying the cause of your dogs fishy breath is important for finding a solution.

Understanding Dogs Breath

Your dogs breath can reveal a lot about their health. A fishy smell may indicate a dental or digestive issue. Halitosis is the medical term for bad breath in dogs.

Dogs have over 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, making their sense of smell much stronger than humans. This means that even a slight odor in their breath can be quite noticeable.

Common causes of fishy-smelling breath in dogs include dental problems such as gum disease or tooth decay, poor diet, gastrointestinal issues, and kidney disease.

Its important to address any underlying health issues that may be causing your dogs fishy breath. Regular dental cleanings and a balanced diet can help prevent bad breath.

If your dogs breath smells fishy, consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Common Causes of Fishy Breath in Dogs

Fishy breath in dogs can be caused by various factors, including bacteria, food, diet, and anal glands. The following are some of the common causes:

• Bacteria: Bacteria in your dogs mouth can cause fishy breath. Poor dental hygiene can lead to the buildup of bacteria, resulting in bad breath.
• Food: Some types of food can cause fishy breath in dogs. Fish-based diets or treats, for example, can leave a fishy odor in your dogs mouth.
• Anal glands: The anal glands, located near the anus, can become impacted or infected, causing a fishy smell.
• Poop: Eating poop, also known as coprophagia, can cause fishy breath in dogs. The smell can linger in your dogs mouth even after theyve eaten the poop.
• Scent marker: Dogs use their scent to communicate with other dogs. Scent marking, which involves rubbing their scent on objects, can also cause fishy breath.
• Diet: A diet lacking in essential nutrients can cause bad breath in dogs.

Its essential to identify the cause of your dogs fishy breath to address the issue properly. If your dogs breath smells fishy, consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

Source: AKC

Dental Issues Leading to Bad Breath

Poor dental hygiene can lead to bad breath in dogs. Just like humans, dogs need to brush their teeth regularly to prevent plaque buildup and tartar. If left untreated, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to periodontal disease and gingivitis. These conditions can cause inflammation, pain, and infection in the gums and teeth.

Regular teeth cleaning and dental hygiene can help prevent these issues. Brush your dogs teeth with canine toothpaste and use dental cleaning tools as necessary. If your dog already has oral problems, a dental cleaning may be necessary to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

Its important to note that bad breath in dogs can also be a sign of more serious issues, such as oral tumors. If your dogs breath smells fishy or foul, its best to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems.

(Source: American Kennel Club)

Medical Conditions Associated with Fishy Breath

Fishy breath in dogs can be a sign of underlying medical conditions. Here are some possible causes:

• Dental problems: Gum disease, tooth decay, or an abscessed tooth can cause a fishy smell in your dogs breath.
• Infections: Bacterial infections in the mouth, respiratory system, or urinary tract can cause a fishy odor.
• Kidney disease: Dogs with kidney disease may have a fishy smell in their breath due to the buildup of toxins in the body.
• Liver disease: Liver problems can cause a buildup of chemicals in the body, leading to a fishy smell in the breath.
• Digestive problems: Digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, or flatulence can also cause bad breath in dogs.

If you notice a fishy smell in your dogs breath, it is important to take them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Some of the symptoms to look out for include pain, weight loss, and changes in appetite. Treatment options will depend on the underlying cause of the fishy breath.

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle

Your dogs diet and lifestyle can play a significant role in their breath odor. Certain foods and treats can cause a fishy smell in your dogs mouth.

Dry dog food, especially those that contain chicken or turkey, can contribute to bad breath. Additionally, a fiber-rich diet can help improve your dogs digestive health and reduce bad breath.

Regular exercise can also help improve your dogs breath odor by promoting healthy digestion and reducing the buildup of bacteria in their mouth.

Incorporating probiotics into your dogs diet can also help improve their breath odor by promoting healthy gut bacteria.

Its important to pay attention to your dogs dietary habits and avoid giving them table scraps or foods that are high in fat or sugar.

Finally, make sure to keep up with your dogs dental hygiene by regularly brushing their teeth and providing them with dental chews or toys.

Sources:

• American Kennel Club. Why Does My Dogs Breath Smell Like Fish?
• PetMD. Bad Breath (Chronic) in Dogs.

Prevention and Treatment Options

To prevent fishy breath in your dog, start by ensuring they have a healthy diet and exercise regularly. You can also provide chew toys and dental treats to help keep their teeth clean. Regular teeth brushing with canine toothpaste can also help prevent bad breath.

If your dog already has fishy breath, it is important to take them to the vet for a checkup. The vet may recommend a dental cleaning or blood work to check for underlying health issues. Oral hygiene wipes can also be used to clean your dogs teeth and freshen their breath.

Probiotics can also be added to your dogs diet to promote healthy digestion and reduce bad breath. However, it is important to consult with your vet before adding any supplements to your dogs diet.

Overall, prevention is key when it comes to fishy breath in dogs. By maintaining good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, you can help keep your furry friends breath smelling fresh.

My name is Danny Jackson and Im the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.