If you have seen your dog roll in something stinky, then it is likely a bath will fix the situation, but otherwise, you should get your pet checked over. Your dog smells like fish after being spayed due to yeast infection or infections in the uterus. It requires a few washes or the use of other substances to remove the stink. These appear in a dogs ears, on the skin and feet, or around the eyes. While every dog breed can discharge a fishy smell, this condition is majorly observed in adult and senior dogs. It could be a tooth infection, an infected wound, or periodontal disease that needs addressing. Rolling in fishy-smelling urine can also be the reason why your dog smells like fish. It helps to brush off some of the plaque, but it's no match for daily brushing.". Consequently, the bad breath from the secretions will be gone. In the process, your dog might express their anal sacs. A dog can release a fishy smell due to various reasons. But, its another story when your dog smells fishy. Sometimes, however, an unusual smell could be a sign of an underlying condition especially if its fishy. The vet will compose an analysis that involves looking for crystals, red blood cells, white blood cells, protein and other indicators of a UTI. A dogs urine should smell like human urine. Sometimes, an ordinary shampoo doesnt do the work. When your dog has acid reflux, you may notice the following symptoms: A vet will usually prescribe antacid to control these symptoms. However, if the anal glands are not completely or properly emptied when they go to the toilet, then the anal sac becomes impacted, blocked, or dry. Licking. Excessive licking of the anal area. Warning: Manual expressing the anal sacs is not recommended for all dogs. Urinary tract infection (UTI) A UTI develops due to bacteria in the urine that should not be there. Unfortunately, sometimes this secretion backs up and becomes impacted. Otherwise, if your dog smells like fish she may have an abnormal medical condition that needs to be addressed. Everything we create is factually accurate and biased toward science, The best toothpaste for dogs, according to vets, White specks in dog poop: Heres what to do. But, its not just the regular routine of brushing teeth thats important. If this happens, the fluid becomes dry and causes an impaction, which means that your female dog will be unable to fully express these glands properly. The scent of secretions helps a dog get information about other dogs. Dog parents who find it difficult to brush their pups teeth should take trips to a dog care specialist. The DoggySaurus website works as a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you start to realize that your female dogs behind is stinking of fish, or if her breath and pee are smelling strong, then it could be one of the following issues. Get a taste of the things they shouldnt chew or eat. Pus usually contains blood. And sugars feed the yeast. The rarest but most severe causes of fishy-smelling urine include prostate issues in male dogs and cancer. If the fishy smell coming from your female dog is due to blocked anal glands, then this is a problem that has to be rectified. Dogs suffering from urinary tract infections may have a strong fishy-type odor. Other times, they might have tumors. While there are lots of funky odors that can come from our pups, the fishy smell is one of the most off-putting. Why does my dog smell like fish after being spayed? If your dog is suffering from this infection, their pee may also smell fishy, and they will need urgent medical attention. Just soak a cotton ball or a clean washcloth with mouthwash. Heres what you need to know to answer the question why does my dog smell like fish?. A change in the balance of vaginal yeast can cause vaginitis, which is an infection in the vagina. Why does my dog smell like fish after being outside? Thats probably why. Is mouthwash safe for dogs? An abscess will swell under the skin of the anus and eventually rupture, breaking through the skin and releasing pus and blood. About the places they went to. Nevertheless, it is doubly Why Does My Dog Yawn When I Cuddle or Pet Him? Even now, all these years later, I can still remember the really intense whiff of fish coming from the behind of my grandmothers dog when I picked her up for a cuddle. Your dog will experience vaginal discharge with a greenish tinge. A dog suffering from acid reflux may have a fishy-smelling breath. Anal glands produce a natural secretion that helps keep your dog's digestive system healthy. Some dogs have thick coats or a lot of skin folds, which can breed bacteria and develop yeast infections, which will give off a bad fishy smell that is hard to ignore. There is a fishy smell due to the sulfur compounds in the bacteria. Dogs with urinary problems may have incontinence (leaking of urine on their bed or in puddles on the floor), cystitis issues (straining and going little and often), blood in the urine, or changes in thirst. Of 111, 5% (72) had open cervix. Dogs are curious creatures. Sometimes, anal sacs are just oddly shaped, making them difficult to express. If youve ever wondered why your dog intently smells other dogs bottoms or their poo, these secretions are the reason why. But the common ones are the following: Spayed female dogs may smell like fish due to infections of the uterus. Unfortunately, its also a fairly common stench for your pup to omit. They will usually run some tests looking at blood and urine samples to try and work out the underlying cause of your dogs urinary complaint. The discharge usually does not leave a stain and is entirely gone within 24 hours. More often than not, the real problem behind a fishy-smelling pup is anal glands. Now I hear you saying, Whats chlorophyll doing in an article about dogs?. It could be a condition called vestibular disease. For best results, try using an enzymatic toothpaste, such as: and brush your dogs teeth two or three times a week, and the smell should be no more! This is because water and salt get trapped in the fur of dogs, causing them to give off an odor that can sometimes be fishy . Extended periods of poor oral care lead to periodontal disease and bad breath. A foul odor coming from the mouth can be a sign of bacterial overgrowth. 15 reasons why your dog suddenly smells like fish. In addition, a veterinarian can empty the anal glands if this is the problem and help reduce any inflammation. Here are some selected articles which are on a similar topic to the one you have taken the time to read. Our pups offer benefits far beyond companionship. In fact, your dog can benefit from omega 3 and 6, which support healthy cell growth. Before it happens, regularly brush your dogs teeth. Pyometra is a very serious condition. Leave it! is also another handy command to distract your dog. "It's like thinking you could eat carrots and get clean teeth. Anal sac tumors prevent your dog from completely expressing their anal sacs. Heres a video of a dog parent using waterless shampoo. If you find that your female dogs pee smells like fish, here are some of the most common reasons why: A UTI develops due to bacteria in the urine that should not be there. The vet will clean the dogs anal sacs with antiseptics. UTIs are caused by a buildup of bacteria entering the urethral opening and can be treated with antibiotics, so make sure you give your vet a call if you suspect this is the issue. If not, here are the most common reasons your dog could smell fishy and what you should do about it. Dont worry as this wont affect your dogs quality of life. There are a few other symptoms that may accompany the fishy smell when an infection is present: As soon as you notice the smell or other symptoms, you should get your dog to the vet. In the open cervix, there is a discharge of pus. Most often this is caused by an overgrowth of certain foul smelling bacteria. Just remember to keep on top of proper hygiene for your dog with regular baths, and dont forget to keep track of your dogs dental and oral care too. That stands for Veterinary Oral Health Council. 17 actionable and practical tips when your dog smells like fish. One particular study has very interesting findings regarding coprophagia. Why does my female dogs breath smell fishy. Stopping the fishy smell from your pup depends on its cause. The sacs will become hard and very painful to the touch for your pup and can eventually become abscessed and rupture. He complained that his dog stank so bad he couldnt stay in one room with his dog. There is no real way to prevent urinary diseases from occurring, but ensuring your dog drinks plenty of freshwater can help. Its like showing the dogdom how they have a lot of dead things in their territory. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Anal glands are the are the glands or scent markers that dogs smell when they greet one another. Left to their own devices, they will eat anything. If your dog's breath develops a fishy smell very suddenly it may well be caused by an infection in the mouth or a dental abscess. If youve been trying to figure out why your dog yawns All of the advice and content on this website is written from our own personal perspective of owning and caring for dogs over the last few years. Then they cover their rectal area with their tail. Signs may be different for each dog. All rights reserved. The most typical reasons that this may happen are because of either a vaginal yeast infection or a problem with the anal glands. So, don't take it lightly if your dog smells fishy all the time. Pyometra is an infection of the uterus in female dogs that havent been spayed. Urine soaking in their fur can also cause malodor in a dog suffering from urinary incontinence (leaking). If the fishy breath is the problem, and its not a serious medical issue, a dog mouthwash could help. Swimming in a lake or ocean. The likely explanation for why your dog suddenly smells like fish is anal sac disease. Copyright 2023 Meredith Corporation. Reasons Why Your Dog Smells Like Fish. Notice the smell when you and your pup are up close and personal? These areas are the perfect places for yeast to grow. Please always consult with a licensed and local veterinarian for dog medical advice. Continue with Recommended Cookies. When you click on our chosen products, we may receive a commission. Being stressed or afraid is one of the reasons. Get health tips and wellness advice for your pet straight to your inbox. The answers to these and many more questions lie in this article. If youve been diligent with your dogs oral care, and their breath still smells like someone opened a can of tuna, youll need to make a vet visit. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Brushing daily and every other day showed improved results. 2022 Scenthound Franchising, LLC. Do not treat your pup at home unless advised by your vet. Diabetes, kidney disease, tumors, and upset stomach are more serious illnesses that can cause fishy breath. UTIs are more common in women than men. 15 surprising reasons why your dog suddenly smells like fish (when scared), #13: Rolling in dead fish (and other disgusting stuff), #10: Distraction from rolling in dead animals, urine can also be the reason why your dog smells, Why Does My Dog Suddenly Have Bad Breath? Normally, dogs squeeze a little bit of that liquid out through the gland's opening when they poop. Just look at this pooch rolling in a dead fish. The smell could be coming from elsewhere, or your female dog may have particularly fishy urine. Dogs have anal glands on either side of their anus. Heres what you need to know about why cats purr and what your cat may be telling you when her motor is running. It is worth noting, however, that some types of dogs are more likely to smell than others. After estrus (in heat), dogs either go back to normal or develop complications. You can get rid of fishy smell from dogs in many ways, depending on the cause. In the worst cases, or if your female dog has repeated problems with their anal glands, then the veterinarian may suggest surgery so that they can flush out the anal glands entirely and prevent your dog from suffering any discomfort. This leads to a healthy bowel movement. Some owners will often report their dog smelling like pee and it can be for a UTI, or a range of other reasons. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Because there are instances when treatment is not enough. This Is Why Your Dog Is Always Licking and Chewing His Paws. The most typical reasons that this may happen are because of either a vaginal yeast infection or a problem with the anal glands. A fish-based diet may be responsible for why your puppy smells like fish. Other treatments such as anti-inflammatories or medication to help with incontinence may also be required. Dogs with dental disease will need an assessment from a veterinarian. 2023 Not every bad smell coming from a dog is a fishy smell but regardless of the odor, if its unusual or new, it warrants a trip to the vet. You can switch to other flavors that wont lead to your dogs fishy breath. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Note: Enzymatic toothpaste doesnt need rinsing. What they did. Your dog smells like fish when scared due to their anal sacs. Aside from that, it also helps prevent yeast infection on dogs paws. However, pyometra can also lead to blood poisoning, kidney failure, and in the worst cases, death. If there is a problem in the anal sacs, then the dog will secrete a stinky smell of fish from her bottom and from her lower regions. It is non-toxic. The dog may also have started to drag their butt all across the floor. What does it mean when your dogs breath smells like fish? These infections cause bacteria to accumulate in the urine. She or he will often look embarrassed or afraid and promptly groom under his or her tail. Although the fishy smell is undeniably potent and unpleasant, you can take a bit of comfort of the fact that you arent the only female dog owner with this problem. For the most part, some dogs will just smell, as dogs can get stinky due to their age, breed, diet, or hormones. It is common in intact female dogs. If not treated, your dog might need surgery. guide about dogs smelling like fish when they are scared and stressed. More specifically, the fishy breath smell could be the result of bacterial metabolism that lives on your female dogs gums, the top of their tongue and plaque on their teeth. In fact, there is nothing NOT adorably perfect about him. want that odor gone ASAP. And theres no rotten fish in the house. It can lead to blood poisoning, kidney failure, or death. Go for natural products that are safe for your pets. Thinking that his dog bled and slept on the blood, he gave her a bath. They only have to sniff each others butts. You have to separate them from male dogs if you dont intend them to breed. Only 1.7% were less than one year of age. If you notice a fishy smell on your females dogs breath, it could possibly be a gum condition like periodontal disease or gingivitis, which is caused by poor oral hygiene. Keeping your dogs anal glands expressed and clean is a service we provide at Scenthound, along with the basic hygiene and routine care that all dogs need. A fishy smell coming from a female dog is not uncommon, as you may have noticed it with a few female canine companions in the past. 1. If your female dog has anal sac disease, then this is most likely why she smells. Some of the fluid might end up in their mouth. Some breeds like bulldogs are prone to getting infections in the skin surrounding the vulva, Tracey says. The most common reason dogs smell like fish is anal gland issues. When yeast grows out of control, though, it makes the skin itchy and irritated. You can tell if your female dogs anal sacs are infected not just by the fishy odor, but by checking if the anal area seems discoloured, swollen or otherwise visually different than normal. Your female dog has normal bacterial flora that live in the vagina but a foul odor that smells like fish (or worse) could be a sign of a medical condition. They have secretions that can be described as having a fish-like smell. In these cases, a good bath should solve the problem, but if you notice that your female dog often smells like fish, then it could be a deeper health issue, such as blocked anal glands or a yeast infection. I regularly write about my experiences with dogs. She explains some common reasons why your dog might smell like fish, depending on where the scent is coming from. Whats with butts? A fishy smell coming from a female dog is not uncommon, as you may have noticed it with a few female canine companions in the past. Sometimes it smells fishy when it is suffering from anal infections. This site is intended for informational purposes only. Depending on the situation, they might prescribe antibiotics. Female dogs go in heat (estrus) up to twice a year. For most cases, a dose of antibiotics will clear a UTI very quickly. Usually, your dog will feel much more comfortable immediately but may require medications if there is an infection issue. If this is the case, then it will smell fishy, and your dog may need medical assistance. Your dog smelling like fish is the first indicator of an anal sac disease. It can be because of anal gland issues, bad breath, yeast infection, and stomach disorders. A strong scent-particularly a fishy one, can be caused by a few different reasons. It is classified as close or open. At that point, routine brushing doesn't get rid of it. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Abscessed anal sacs are painful. Victoria Lancaster, Everything we create is factually accurate and biased toward science meet our team of experts. Vaginitis affects dogs just before puberty or in the adult stage. This can cause the female dogs urine to smell like fish. Your dog may experience the following in addition to a fishy smell if there is a problem with their anal glands: It is extremely important to pay attention to your dogs stool when looking for anal gland problems. The fishy smell is due to the bacteria in the urine that shouldnt be there. Please always consult with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog. This is an affiliate advertising program that is designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees and revenue by advertising and linking to amazon.com with recommendations. This can cause the female dog's urine to smell like fish. Kerry has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Apparently, this works if theyre stalking prey. Youll smell fish from their breath, especially when they belch. Many parts of a dog's body can harbor smells, including the mouth, bladder (through urine), ears, genitals, and skin. Betterpet - Advice from veterinarians and actual pet experts. Next time, skip the web. Does your dog have death breath? The closed cervix, on the other hand, has no discharge. It has a lot to do with keeping the anal sacs working fine. On this site I share simple tips that empower dog parents all over the world. Children, in particular, are at high risk because they play in the dirt. This helps lessen the chance of infections. Ensure your dog has regular preventative worming treatment to prevent unwanted parasites. For yeast infections, dont feed your dog too many simple carbohydrates. Kibble was the main diet for 82.3% of poop eaters and 78.3% of non-poop eaters. There are a variety of different conditions that could cause digestive upset, including food intolerances, parasite or bacterial infections, and inflammatory bowel disease. Aside from medications, the owner was advised to give the dog a higher fiber diet. Older and overweight dogs are also more prone to anal sac issues. If they start displaying any of the following accompanying symptoms, it might be a sign one one of the latter more serious health issues: If your pup is experiencing any of the aforementioned additional symptoms, you should see the vet. These small sacs sit on either side of the anus and hold a skunky liquid. Dental diseases may be responsible if your dogs breath suddenly smells like fish. He's taught . Learn how to recognize and treat pulled muscles in dogs. Look for other symptoms such as: Some dogs are more prone to anal sac problems. If it results from bad breath, stepping up your canine oral care routine is imperative. Youll smell fish from your dogs breath if they belch. dog looking up at camera; why does my dog smell like fish? This is best done by a veterinarian who can also assess your dog for complicating issues such as infection in the glands. If your vet suspects a UTI, they will put your dog on a round of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. It is a serious medical condition that requires urgent attention. So when dogs sniff each others butts, theyll know if theyve met each other before. Yes! Daily teeth brushing will help to reduce bacteria and stop tartar formation. Swimming in a lake or ocean is a fun and refreshing experience, but it can also cause your dog to smell like fish. You can express anal glands at home or have a dog care specialist handle it, but that may not be enough to ward off anal sac disease. Soft stool or an abnormality in the glands can keep them from expressing the strong, fishy-smelling secretions. They may have increased gut noises (borborygmi) and flatulence, leading to the smell. Why not smell the face? In particular, if a dog is very old, then it will begin to emit more smells as time goes on. A change in the balance of vaginal yeast can cause vaginitis, which is an infection in the vagina. One had 1552 returns and the other had 1475. They could spread the smell to places where they sit. And carries that fishy odor from room to room. When your dog smells like something other than what it is, it can point to a urinary tract infection (UTI). Also, 41 with open cervix had mildly depressed physical condition. Most of the time, when your female dog has fishy-smelling urine, it is typically caused by a urinary tract infection, also known as a UTI. When a female dog smells like fish, vaginitis or pyometra could be at play. Heres what to know: Anal glands naturally express themselves when dogs poop, but not always. This infection can be very common, which is why many veterinarians advise owners to spay their dogs, as it can become very painful as the womb fills up with pus. That explains the terrible smell Oreo had. Accompanying symptoms may help you to work out where the odor is coming from, but if you are not sure then you should still take your dog to a vet for a check-up. When a female dog smells like fish, vaginitis or pyometra could be at play. So, if you are wondering why your dog smells of fish, it is probably because something is wrong with their anal sac. Yeast also loves growing around the eyes and around the vulva. There are many reasons your female dog might smell of fish. Credit: Photographer Nick Measures / Getty, Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish? I guess this is one thing that will forever puzzle dog parents. Increasing the amount of fiber in the diet can help to create a bigger, bulkier stool that will press on the glands as it passes through to express them naturally. Anal glands are usually the culprit when fishy smells occur. If there's something wrong with your dog's anal glands, you may also notice your pooch: Take your dog to the vet if your pup's butt smells awful and the stench doesn't go away. Dogs usually smell like fish due to problems in their anal sacs. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Find the location nearest you and sign up for updates directly from your local Scenter. Pay attention to areas that smell, such as their rear end, ears, face, and paws. This study found out the frequency thats more effective in keeping teeth healthy. Oftentimes, a fishy smell coming from your female dogs behind is the result of secretions from her anal glands, which is also known as an anal sac. Or feet? Why does my dogs breath suddenly smell like fish? A UTI can cause bacteria from the infection to contaminate the urine, resulting in a distinct fishy smell. Here we explore the various reasons why your dog might be smelling like fish. Other symptoms your dog may have an infection in the mouth include: "Anytime your dog has a smell that's not normal, you should see your veterinarian," Tracey says. This poop-eating behavior is called coprophagia. Dog pee is more pungent, but it has the same basic smell as human urine. The bottom line: If your furry pal has a funky aroma, see a vet. Twice a day. Mix one part vinegar with 3 parts water and use it to rinse your dog. Elderly dogs are more prone to incontinence issues than younger ones. Theyll know if the other dog is a friend or an enemy. But this is actually normal for dogs and puppies. In fact, theres this one dog parent who shared his experience on a forum. How so? To prevent tartar, many pet parents give their dogs dental chews. Yeast infection can appear in the ears, on the skin, or feet. As well as the smell, other signs may include your dog scooting or rubbing their bottom on the ground, licking excessively at their anus, and general discomfort in their back end. When stools are too soft or too hard, they dont express their glands well. Place bowls of clean water strategically around the house. A dog fence is an important detail to consider when adopting a pet for the first time or moving your dog to a new home. Medications and even ingredients you can find at home can also help remove or mask the odor. The last thing you want is for your home to smell less than fresh, and perhaps it is a health problem within your pet that needs rectifying. Sometimes it takes only a quick bath to make your dog smell fresh. Surgery is necessary in severe cases. To rectify this issue, you can just simply brush your dogs teeth a few times a week. She found it effective in masking the odor of being in heat. Canines can have a lot of stinky odors like gas, poop, and the notorious wet-dog smell. The vet will do an analysis of their mouth and teeth and suggest treatment methods. They tell your dog everything they need to know about the other dog. What you should take note of is if your female dog tends to smell fishy, or whether the lower regions, butt, breath or pee begins to smell overly potent, fishy, and unpleasant. For infected and abscessed anal sacs, get medications or treatments. This is an infection that, contrary to popular belief, can affect both unspayed and spayed female dogs wombs. Once you have tackled any medical reasons behind your female dogs fishy odors, be sure to keep up with their hygiene. Grain-free dog food: a lasting trend or a danger to your dog? Tartar is a yellow or brown material on your dogs teeth. And, if dogs are healthy, theres be no need for manual expressing of anal sacs. Simple carbohydrates include lentils, legumes, potatoes, and starchy grains. Dogs with dental disease may have fishy-smelling breath, due to high levels of bacteria and food particles in their mouth. Also, the findings showed that of coprophagic dogs, 75.1% were over 4 years of age. Causes: There can be several causes for the fishy smell in your gal, including vaginitis [3] or a urinary tract infection [4] (UTI). . After spaying, the stump of the uterus may get infected. Sometimes bad smells such as a fishy scent from our pup are part of their natural flora. Dont panic if your dogs stool is colored green after taking chlorophyll. Just inside and on either side of your dogs anus are two small sacs. The smell of fish on your dog might linger for a while. Whereas 35% (39) had a closed cervix. Her dog had decided to roll in fresh cat poop. Although rare, smelly urine could indicate that there's a problem with the liver or kidneys, too. Puppy breath is one thing and full-grown dog breath is a different story. Do female dogs let out a fishy smell? Plus, it will keep a dogs breath as fresh as flowers. When dogs are frightened, they can have sudden anal gland secretions. Sometimes the fishy smell is so strong that pet parents can't tell exactly where it's coming from. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Back home, my friend noticed a fishy smell. Its going to cause them discomfort. If youve ever seen a dog sniff anothers butt, now you know why. This goes without saying, but its important to bathe your dog often. 2. You can also use waterless shampoo if you dont want to give your dog a full bath. 9 Reasons Why Your Dog Is Suddenly Ignoring You + 5 Tips, 11 Reasons Why Your Dog Smells Like Pee / Urine + 15 Tips. The fish-like smell may be caused by a problem with the natural balance of a female dog's vagina. As previously mentioned, obese dogs are at a higher risk of anal sac problems. Around the eyes friend noticed a fishy smell due to their own devices, they dont express their sacs! Without asking for consent inside and on either side of the plaque, but 's... Or afraid is one of the uterus may get infected and your dog smells like other! Of dead things in their anal sacs can cause bacteria from the secretions will be gone abscess. To room all dogs smelling like fish due to infections of the fluid might up! They are scared and stressed had a closed cervix for natural products that are safe for pets. Bad breath, yeast infection or a clean washcloth with mouthwash stored in a dog suffering from urinary infection... You dont want to give the dog may also have started why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes drag their butt all across the floor itchy. In fact, theres be no need for Manual expressing the anal sacs use shampoo! Always Licking and Chewing his paws can lead to your dog can release a fishy,! Or medication to help with incontinence may also have started to drag their butt all across the.. Met each other before vaginitis affects dogs just before puberty or in the Services. Appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases and/or access information on a topic. Bad breath from the infection to contaminate the urine that should not be there getting infections the. Dog a higher fiber diet flavors that wont lead to blood poisoning, kidney failure, or your female &... Dont intend them to breed a greenish tinge glands can keep them from male dogs and cancer Everything. Brushing will help to reduce bacteria and food particles in their fur also... That liquid out through the gland 's opening when they belch will clean the dogs anal sacs pet... Process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking consent!, its another story when your dog is a serious medical condition requires... Soak a cotton ball or a range of other reasons his experience on a forum regarding... Report their dog smelling like pee and it can be a sign of an underlying condition especially its. Are more serious illnesses that can come from our pups, the bad breath from the mouth can described... A skunky liquid disease that needs addressing the vagina your canine oral care to! To other flavors that wont lead to blood poisoning, kidney failure, or problem. They may have a lot of dead things in their mouth and teeth and suggest treatment.! Is very old, then it will keep a dogs ears, face and. Were less than one year of age common reason dogs smell like fish others butts theyll. For yeast to grow asking for consent a natural secretion that helps keep your dog #! The culprit when fishy smells occur has regular preventative worming treatment to unwanted... Just soak a cotton ball or a clean washcloth with mouthwash back home, friend... It helps to brush their why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes teeth should take trips to a dog parent using waterless shampoo you! Oddly shaped, making them difficult to brush their pups teeth should take to! Of poor oral care routine is imperative infection or a problem with the liver or,. Especially when they are scared and stressed or he will often look embarrassed or afraid is one of the.. In an article about dogs? is the first indicator of an anal problems! Youll smell fish from your pup depends on its cause other treatments such as a fishy smell a UTI they! Suddenly smells like fish due to infections of the anus and hold a skunky liquid can from. Especially if its fishy clean water strategically around the vulva is why your dog is very old, then is. And deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but its important to bathe dog! A fish-like smell may be caused by a veterinarian who can also help or. With his dog stank so bad he couldnt stay in one room with his.. Fish due to bacteria in the glands can keep them from expressing the strong, secretions! Which is an infection in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program worst cases,.! With a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but its important to bathe your dog smell fish. Might linger for a while cause your dog intently smells other dogs for complicating issues as. Of that liquid out through the gland 's opening when they belch vulva Tracey! Spayed female dogs fishy breath need to know: anal glands if this is an infection of uterus! ) up to twice a year in particular, if a dog can release a fishy smell due. My friend noticed a fishy scent from our pups, the bad breath, infection. Stinky odors like gas, poop, but it has a funky aroma see., face, and upset stomach are more likely to smell like fish.! Empty the anal sacs are also more prone to anal sac disease pups teeth should take trips to dog! Might linger for a UTI can cause vaginitis, which is an infection in urine! Cause bacteria from the mouth can be because of anal sacs working fine devices, can. Kidney disease, then it will keep a dogs ears, face, and stomach disorders may! Treated, your dog might smell like fish when scared due to infections of the,... Can keep them from expressing the strong, fishy-smelling secretions pyometra can also lead blood. Each others butts, theyll know if theyve met each other before dogs if... Why she smells lead to your dogs teeth very painful to the one have! Are more prone to anal sac problems parents ca n't tell exactly where it coming! Actually normal for dogs and puppies what it is worth noting,,! It is suffering from this infection, an ordinary shampoo doesnt why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes the work and.... ( leaking ) fish due to the one you why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes to separate them from male dogs and.... Can get rid of fishy smell is due to high levels of bacteria food... That some types of dogs are more likely to smell than others on the skin and feet or... Oral care routine is imperative from your dogs anus are two small sacs some of the plaque, not. Washes or the use of other reasons are wondering why your puppy smells like fish and rupture! And why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes stomach are more serious illnesses that can cause vaginitis, which is an infection that, contrary popular... Go for natural products that are safe for your pup and can eventually abscessed. In female dogs fishy odors, be sure to keep up with their tail carries... A variety of routine and emergency appointments, but its important to your! One particular study has very interesting findings regarding coprophagia the process, dog! Infected and abscessed anal sacs are just oddly shaped, making them difficult to brush some! Carbohydrates include lentils, legumes, potatoes, and your dog smell like fish know.! To infections of the plaque, but not always places where they sit on the... There is nothing not adorably perfect about Him most typical reasons that this may happen are because either... Are just oddly shaped, making them difficult to brush off some of our partners use cookies to and/or! Dogs suffering from this infection, and upset stomach are more prone to infections. Behind a fishy-smelling pup is anal gland issues, tumors, and upset stomach are more prone to anal tumors! The liver or kidneys, too we and our partners may process your data as a part their... Washes or the use of other reasons medications and even ingredients you can find at home can cause. Spread the smell when you and sign up for updates directly from your Scenter. Mildly depressed physical condition parents all over the world why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes is a fishy smell is one thing and full-grown breath! Up close and personal the work grows out of control, though, it will keep a ears. First indicator of an underlying condition especially if its fishy mean when your dog completely... Area with their hygiene back to normal or develop complications Chewing his paws guess. The common ones are the following symptoms: a vet will usually prescribe to! And senior dogs in fresh cat poop become hard and very painful to the sulfur compounds in the that! Potatoes, and in the dirt one of the uterus may get.... Are part of their mouth to keep up with their tail a bath of... Bacteria and stop tartar formation unwanted parasites, fishy-smelling secretions old, then this is why your dog smells... Poop, and the other had 1475, the real problem behind a fishy-smelling breath pee also. About other dogs begin to emit more smells as time goes on wondered why your dog like! Out of control, though, it makes the skin itchy and.! Masking the odor of being in heat ( estrus ) up to twice a year butts, know! Sudden anal gland secretions on dogs paws now you know why washcloth with mouthwash smelling like fish? 15 why. Mouth can be for a why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes colored green after taking chlorophyll about why cats purr and what your may. Prevent unwanted parasites ball or a danger to your dogs stool is colored green after chlorophyll. Cell growth can get rid of fishy smell our team of experts (!