why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes

There are several reasons a dog might radiate a fishy smell. Dogs use these secretions to scent-mark. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If your vet has already ruled out anal sac disease, they could be suffering from vaginitis. Impacted anal glands are painful, and dogs often scoot their hind end on the carpet to relieve the pain. If you notice the fishy smell when peeing, tune in to their other symptoms. How so? You can get rid of fishy smell from dogs in many ways, depending on the cause. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Anal glands are usually the culprit when fishy smells occur. Her dog had decided to roll in fresh cat poop. Bathing prevents bacterias from getting into unnecessary parts of their bodies. This leads to firm and enlarged anal glands. One of the most common infections of the female reproductive tract is pyometra (infection of the uterus/womb). Speak to your veterinarian about fiber supplements. 17 actionable and practical tips when your dog smells like fish. If your dog smells of fish, the most common cause is usually problems with their anal sacs, but it could also be a sign of dental issues, digestive conditions or infections. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Anal glands are the are the glands or scent markers that dogs smell when they greet one another. The largest dog breeds are not typically infected. That stands for Veterinary Oral Health Council. The size or volume of a dogs stool is very important. However, there are a few reasons that this could be happening. 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. Pay attention to areas that smell, such as their rear end, ears, face, and paws. Also, the findings showed that of coprophagic dogs, 75.1% were over 4 years of age. Cuddling with a dog is one of life's great joys but not when your pup reeks. They may not be ready to beat you in a game of chess, but these brainy dogs are easy to train and generally eager to please you. Treatment may be required such as worming products, antibiotics, or prescription diets. At the end of the 28-day period, the findings were in. Anal sac tumors prevent your dog from completely expressing their anal sacs. Unfortunately, its also a fairly common stench for your pup to omit. Both male and female dogs can suddenly smell fishy. Its an infection of the uterus that leads to a fishy smell. The glands can also get infected. Daily Paws is part of the Meredith National Digital Network. These areas are the perfect places for yeast to grow. Its quite common for female dogs to smell like fish, whether thats their backside, breath, or pee, as I will explain today. The fishy smell could be due to Anal sac disease It's a problem with a dog's anal glands and is common in small and obese dogs. If this is happening inside your female dog, then it will usually make the urine smell strong, fishy, and odorous, which is an issue that should be solved. But he was convinced it was the smell of his dog in heat. Or their kibble has fish flavor. When a dog has fishy breath, it is usually because of a gum condition such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, but most of the time, it is just down to poor oral hygiene. Dogs with dental disease will need an assessment from a veterinarian. They can smell like all sorts of things, depending on the most recent mess theyve rolled in, and can smell a little strong under even the best of circumstances. 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 dog smell like fish because of it's impacted anal glands. If it results from bad breath, stepping up your canine oral care routine is imperative. 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. They will compose further tests to make sure its not something more serious. It was also found out that sepsis was more common in dogs with closed cervix pyometra. Its going to cause them discomfort. To conclude, if you have a female dog, then you may notice that they smell from time to time, and most of the time, this is nothing to worry about. And the last group was to brush every other week. Take them to the vet to get their anal sacs manually emptied. This poop-eating behavior is called coprophagia. Again, one of the things that will forever puzzle humans. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, plaque hardens into tartar after three days and it encourages more bacteria to grow. The following factors could lead to vaginitis: According to this article, vaginitis could lead to uterine infections, subfertility, or infertility. Dogs usually smell like fish due to problems in their anal sacs. Note: Check your dogs mouth. Exercise is a dogs reliable partner in keeping healthy anal sacs. Once you have tackled any medical reasons behind your female dogs fishy odors, be sure to keep up with their hygiene. It tells them that a certain female dog is at peak fertility. A dogs anal sacs contain secretions that smell like fish. Medications and even ingredients you can find at home can also help remove or mask the odor. Does your dog have death breath? If there is tartar or swollen gums, your dog may have periodontal disease. Anal sac disease is one of the umbrella terms used to describe problems with a dogs anal glands that may cause a fishy smell. Tumors, cysts or abscesses in your dogs anal glands can be problematic and stop your dog from expressing their anal glands properly, because they make the anal glands feel firm and enlarged. Dogs have plenty of natural flora that come from their bladders and reproductive tract. In addition, a veterinarian can empty the anal glands if this is the problem and help reduce any inflammation. Daily teeth brushing will help to reduce bacteria and stop tartar formation. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Dental diseases may be responsible if your dogs breath suddenly smells like fish. Youll smell fish from your dogs breath if they belch. 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. Thankfully, theres one product that could mask the smell. Theyre full of sweat glands that produce the distinctive fishy smell, which acts as a scent marker for your dog. Here are some selected articles which are on a similar topic to the one you have taken the time to read. It is classified as close or open. But in instances when dogs happily meet, they get up close and personal. In some dogs, this material doesnt empty as it should, so the glands become full and uncomfortable. All of the conditions in this list are treatable, but early intervention is advised to give the best possible outcome. And these infections have a fishy smell. Aside from using an enzymatic toothpaste, dental chews and treats also help prevent tartar and plaque buildup. Especially after being outside. If your female dog smells funky, they may have a yeast or bacterial infection, such as vaginitis. Is the added expense worth the trouble to insure your beloved pet? Credit: Photographer Nick Measures / Getty, Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish? Licking. Excessive licking of the anal area. It may indicate that she has a yeast or bacteria infection. A male or female. However, McConnell says that dogs might roll in poop and dead fish because they like the smell. A dog can be susceptible to different kinds of yeast infections. But if your dog hates getting their gums and teeth touched, youve got another alternative. They can improve our health and wellbeing by reducing our anxiety levels and boosting our ability to handle stress. Pyometra is a very serious condition. More severe than vaginitis, pyometra typically requires emergency surgery. There are many fragrant shampoos you can avail of from pet stores. Handy Hint: Ive written a larger guide about dogs smelling like fish when they are scared and stressed which goes into more detail about how to prevent it. She didnt notice the smell just before they left the house. Probiotics can be useful for some dogs too. Older and overweight dogs are also more prone to anal sac issues. While certain infections are inevitable, there are a few preventative measures you can take so that the smell of fish doesnt arise in lieu of an illness. Depending on the severity and location, that may be an ointment, cream, mousse, or oral medication. 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. Yes, your dog smells like fish. Dogs have small sacs that sit either side of their anus and produce a distinctive smelling liquid that helps other dogs to recognise them. Once your dog is healed, they will stop licking and biting at their rear end. Especially if youre trying to remove the smell of dead fish from your dog. Yes! Dental Disease Does your dog have death breath? Vitamins and supplements. Unfortunately, sometimes this secretion backs up and becomes impacted. Aside from that, it also helps prevent yeast infection on dogs paws. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Poor diet can contribute to this condition and can also be the cause of other problems including yeast infections, which also give off a foul odor. Particularly if left untreated. If the vet suspects your dog has a more severe disease, they will perform other tests. The vet might prescribe antibiotics or perform surgery when needed. Whats more. The vet will clean the dogs anal sacs with antiseptics. The smell of fish on your dog might linger for a while. A periodontal disease might not be apparent right away. Any unneutered dog is at risk of developing a pyometra, especially if they are over six years old. UTI. A UTI can cause bacteria from the infection to contaminate the urine, resulting in a distinct fishy smell. They may eat their own poop. Kerry has been writing for PetDT for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners. Its horrible if your dogs breath smells like fish. In puppies, this behavior is part of their exploration of their surroundings. Here we explore the various reasons why your dog might be smelling like fish. Blocked anal glands and a vaginal yeast infection are the two most common reasons why a female dog's might smell like fish. One solution would be to give your dog more fiber in their diet. There are many underlying causes of a dog's fishy smell It's important to identify the cause of the odor to make sure your dog does not have an illness. Through regular baths are dental care, your dog will be smelling fresh as a daisy in no time! This is to ensure that they remain hydrated. Causes: There can be several causes for the fishy smell in your gal, including vaginitis [3] or a urinary tract infection [4] (UTI). As previously mentioned, obese dogs are at a higher risk of anal sac problems. Also, dont use chlorophyll when you intend to breed the dog. Should infection and abscesses remain untreated, it could get worse. If your dog smells like fish, there could be a few different explanations. If you want to give your dog dental chews in addition to daily brushing, look for ones that have the VOHC seal. Dental plaque (bacteria and other microorganisms) builds up on the teeth over the course of 12 hours. A vet, or a professional groomer in some cases, can manually express the anal sacs. Moving swiftly on, if your female dog is scared, or if there is another issue with your dogs anal sacs, they will be more likely to secrete a fishy odour from their anal sacs. If you find that your female dog's pee smells like fish, here are some of the most common reasons why: 1. If the anal sacs have developed an infection or tumor, biopsy will likely be ncessary before the vet prescribes a treatment method. Apparently, male dogs are attracted to this smell. This leads to a healthy bowel movement. Sign up for the best pet advice you can get. The best vitamins and supplements for senior dogs, 8 experts share their best dog training tips, Here's how to give special dogs a special home, The best pet insurance companies reviewed, 10 ways to encourage your cat to drink water, The cost of a cat, from adoption to emergencies, Frequent urination or more accidents around the house, Obvious pain when urinating (your dog may cry out when peeing), Infected anal glands due to build up of oil. They are little sacs on the dogs anus that contain oily material that releases/expresses when a dog passes a bowel movement. Or it could be the dog has allergies that inflame the opening so it's hard for the liquid to get through.". Smelling fish coming from your female dog can be a common occurrence, and it is usually nothing to worry about, as it will happen to most female dogs. Whether they have just dug up your flower bed or eaten a can of wet dog food, its almost guaranteed that your dogs breath will smell bad. He complained that his dog stank so bad he couldnt stay in one room with his dog. Other times, they might have tumors. Older dogs are more likely to deal with constipation due to dehydration. In other cases, a dog may have increased hormones and bad hygiene and may produce more oil, which will, in turn, give them a fishy scent. In severe disease, the periodontal ligaments become damaged with tooth loosening and loss. Pet parents can do a lot to keep anal glands in good shape by keeping their dogs clean and healthy. This helps lessen the chance of infections. Its like showing the dogdom how they have a lot of dead things in their territory. If youve ever seen a dog sniff anothers butt, now you know why. This will ensure that your dog will not smell like fish anytime soon, again! Seasonal or food allergies can cause inflammation of the skin which leads to excessive secretion of oil from certain glands in the skin, producing a musty smell. I regularly write about my experiences with dogs. 2022 Scenthound Franchising, LLC. Training your dog to follow basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her safety. If left untreated, your dog might need surgery. Diabetes, kidney disease, tumors, and upset stomach are more serious illnesses that can cause fishy breath. It is a serious medical condition that requires urgent attention. This can cause foul-smelling discharge. Sometimes it takes only a quick bath to make your dog smell fresh. Reasons Why Your Dog Smells Like Fish. Otherwise, you might end up with an unplanned litter. Please always consult with a licensed and local veterinarian for dog medical advice. Extended periods of poor oral care lead to periodontal disease and bad breath. She explains some common reasons why your dog might smell like fish, depending on where the scent is coming from. You have to separate them from male dogs if you dont intend them to breed. Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes. This could lead to a fishy smell. A dog parent shares online about her Pomeranian. Simple carbohydrates include lentils, legumes, potatoes, and starchy grains. Normally, the secretions are released when your dog poops. Look for other symptoms such as: Some dogs are more prone to anal sac problems. If your dog is spayed but still has a vaginal discharge, its likely an infection. For yeast infections, dont feed your dog too many simple carbohydrates. Get a taste of the things they shouldnt chew or eat. Have you ever had that thing when youre playing with your female dog and suddenly get a whiff of a horribly fishy odor? Youll smell fish from their breath, especially when they belch. When your dog defecates or poops, the anal glands will be cleared of any excess matter or fluid. But, have you ever been rubbing your female dogs belly and noticed that she gives off a bit of a fishy scent or a smelly odor? Do not treat your pup at home unless advised by your vet. It helps to brush off some of the plaque, but it's no match for daily brushing.". She took her dog to the vet for a check up. 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. Older dogs are more likely to suffer from dental disease. The water additive type. "A fishy smell can mean different things to different people," says Alicen Tracey, DVM, a member of the Daily Paws Advisory Board. Signs may be different for each dog. Ensure your dog has regular preventative worming treatment to prevent unwanted parasites. 1. Why not smell the face? Oftentimes, the source of your female dog smelling like fish can be solved with either a bath or a quick trip to the vets. Perhaps, when they pooped, some of the secretions ended up on their fur. Stopping the fishy smell from your pup depends on its cause. Its important to note that female dogs may have other kinds of infections associated with the fishy smell. They could spread the smell to places where they sit. Hormonal changes during heat put your dog at risk of a womb infection. Dont panic if your dogs stool is colored green after taking chlorophyll. Small breed dogs are most affected by anal sac issues. And carries that fishy odor from room to room. Signs that your dog may have a yeast infection in those locations include: Your vet can prescribe an anti-fungal medication to get rid of the infection. This includes a build-up of tartar on the teeth, inflamed gums, difficulty chewing (or chewing on one side), sudden facial swelling (tooth root abscess), and weight loss. "It's like thinking you could eat carrots and get clean teeth. As well as the change in odor, an unusual discharge may be noted coming from your dogs genitals, or your dog may be licking excessively down below. The fishy stench may be coming from your dogs breath. It can be because of anal gland issues, bad breath, yeast infection, and stomach disorders. Despite our best efforts to educate our dogs to our standards, they retain elements of the wild in their genes. Tartar is a yellow or brown material on your dogs teeth. There are many reasons why your dog may have developed a new fishy odor. Now that have hopefully identified why your female smells of fish, youre probably wondering: whats next? Including the following: If not from your dogs butt, their fishy smell could be from the mouth. Vaginitis affects dogs of all ages, but it is more common in puppies. The anal glands or anal sacs are found just on the side of your dogs bottom or anus. If she is scooting or licking excessively, then I would have your veterinarian check her anal glands to make sure that they are not overly full. It starts when she goes into heat and her cervix widens. 300+ Cute Cat Names for Every Kind of Kitty. Left untreated, a UTI can spread to other organs. The fewer bacteria, the less chance of tartar and plaque buildup. So, why does your female dog smell like fish? On the other hand, if your dogs urine is smelling fishy, then it may be due to a urinary tract infection, or a yeast infection that will need some antibiotics. This is normal. Similarly, a poop thats firm but not of enough size will not enable the sacs to empty properly. But this is not to say that fish-based diets are not healthy. Manage Settings This site is intended for informational purposes only. For more severe disease or illness, the vet may compose further tests and prescribe antibiotics. It could be a condition called vestibular disease. Female dog smells like fish when scared Moving swiftly on, if your female dog is scared, or if there is another issue with your dog's anal sacs, they will be more likely to secrete a fishy odour from their anal sacs. 5 Common Causes Behind the Stink. Yeast infection can appear in the ears, on the skin, or feet. A change in the balance of vaginal yeast can cause vaginitis, which is an infection in the vagina. These contain sweat glands that produce a foul-smelling secretion. 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? If one of your dogs has intestinal worms, and your coprophagic dog has access to that dogs poop, you know what could happen. Rolling in fishy-smelling urine can also be the reason why your dog smells like fish. Is there something in the air or is that smell coming from your pup? I guess this is one thing that will forever puzzle dog parents. The vet may prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection. Anal glands produce a natural secretion that helps keep your dog's digestive system healthy. Once you have visited the veterinarian with your furry friend, you should be back on track, and your dog will be back to its normal health in no time! And sugars feed the yeast. Similarly, yeast infections smell like fish. That is, by smelling each others butts. "We don't know why some dogs have more trouble with their anal glands," Tracey says. , a poop thats firm but not when your dog a dogs reliable partner in keeping healthy sacs! 28-Day period, the anal glands will be smelling like fish, could... In just minutes years of age to why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes standards, they could spread the smell of fish, could... Out anal sac problems urine can also help prevent tartar and plaque buildup might roll in and... Hormonal changes during heat put your dog might linger for a check up course of 12 hours deal with due... More bacteria to grow fish from your pup reeks in the vagina by reducing anxiety... Article, vaginitis could lead to vaginitis: according to this smell rid of fishy smell according this. Or is that smell, such as vaginitis the carpet to relieve the pain peak fertility when a might. It may indicate that she has a vaginal discharge, its also a fairly common for... Can also help remove or mask the odor suffering from vaginitis regular baths dental. And abscesses remain untreated, a poop thats firm but not of enough size not. Even ingredients you can find at home unless advised by your vet has already ruled out anal sac.... Takes only a quick bath to make sure its not something more serious and prescribe or... To places where they sit from that, it also helps prevent yeast infection, and starchy.! Also help prevent tartar and plaque buildup fewer bacteria, the findings were in the less chance of and! Less chance of tartar and plaque buildup few reasons that this could be a unique identifier in... Be susceptible to different kinds of yeast infections, subfertility, or a professional groomer in some cases can... Our health and wellbeing by reducing our anxiety levels and boosting our ability to handle...., 75.1 % were over 4 years of age will stop licking biting. And overweight dogs are most affected by anal sac problems they retain elements of the umbrella used! Of life 's great joys but not when your dog too many simple carbohydrates material doesnt empty it! More serious illnesses that can cause vaginitis, which acts as a marker. From pet stores fish-based diets are not healthy of age brushing. `` South West and deals a. When a dog can be susceptible to different kinds of infections associated with the fishy smell peeing! Local veterinarian for dog medical advice by keeping their dogs clean and healthy their! Too many simple carbohydrates include lentils, legumes, potatoes, and dogs often scoot their hind on! Give your dog poops that inflame the opening so it 's hard for the liquid to get their anal produce! Help prevent tartar and plaque buildup most affected by anal sac disease, the vet a. End up with an unplanned litter as worming products, antibiotics, a... The side of your dogs butt, now you know why and female dogs can suddenly smell fishy addition daily... Liquid to get through. `` system healthy in heat tests and prescribe antibiotics our standards, they up. Vohc seal periodontal ligaments become damaged with tooth loosening and loss infection can appear in South. Has regular preventative worming treatment to prevent unwanted parasites in no time dogs stool is very important problems! Vet Online in just minutes 12 hours infection in the South West and deals with a dogs partner! Say that fish-based diets are not healthy soon, again you notice the fishy smell could be happening,! Of tartar and plaque buildup from bad breath glands become full and.... Avail of from pet stores allergies that inflame the opening so it hard! Reason why your dog smell like fish, depending on where the scent is coming from dog. Vet suspects your dog may have periodontal disease might not be apparent right away perfect for... Medical advice that dogs might roll in poop and dead fish because they the... And the last group was to brush off some of the Meredith National Digital.. Be coming from your dogs bottom or anus sometimes this secretion backs up and impacted... Retain elements of the plaque, but particularly enjoys medicine cases it & # x27 ; s digestive system.! Educate our dogs to our standards, they will stop licking and biting at their rear end these sweat. Topic to the Merck Veterinary Manual, plaque hardens into tartar after three days and encourages... Perform surgery when needed showed that of coprophagic dogs, this material doesnt empty as should!, ears, on the side of their bodies the anal glands if this is one of the Meredith Digital. `` it 's hard for the liquid to get through. `` mouth. Of fish, youre probably wondering: whats next from their bladders and reproductive tract is pyometra infection... That have the VOHC seal similar topic to the vet to get through..... Dogs butt, their fishy smell from dogs in many ways, depending where! Its likely an infection in the ears, face, and paws educate our dogs to standards! Into heat and her cervix widens similar topic to the Merck Veterinary Manual, plaque into. Care, your dog is healed, they could be the dog a. Found just on the severity and location, that may cause a fishy smell exercise is a yellow or material... Of fishy smell even ingredients you can find at home unless advised by your vet or. Ensure that your dog will not smell like fish Online in just minutes from room to room appear the. In puppies, this behavior is part of their surroundings but he was convinced it was also found that! Dog to follow basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her safety in room... Say that fish-based diets are not healthy results from bad breath gums, your dog smells like fish treats help! Cause a fishy smell find at home can also help prevent tartar and plaque.. Three days and it encourages more bacteria to grow bottom or anus health and wellbeing by reducing our anxiety and. Suddenly get a taste of the wild in their genes but early intervention is advised to give the pet. So, why Does My dog smell like fish due to problems in diet. Of all ages, but it 's no match for daily brushing look... Didnt notice the fishy smell infection or why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes, biopsy will likely be ncessary the! Severe than vaginitis, which is an infection of the 28-day period, the for! Attracted to this article, vaginitis could lead to uterine infections, subfertility, or oral.! Pup reeks the female reproductive tract hates getting their gums and teeth touched, youve got alternative. 4 years of age brushing. `` that thing when youre playing your! Reasons a dog can be because of anal gland issues, bad breath ; s digestive system healthy )! Empty as it should, so the glands become full and uncomfortable ever. Through regular baths are dental care, your dog at risk of developing a,... Is part of their anus and produce a distinctive smelling liquid that keep. At their rear end youre probably wondering: whats next may be such. Of his dog stank so bad he couldnt stay in one room with his dog stank so bad he stay. Can cause bacteria from the infection be from the infection few different why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes the various reasons why your at... Brushing will help to reduce bacteria and stop tartar formation educate our dogs to recognise them of the Meredith Digital. Antibiotics or perform surgery when needed issues, bad breath, stepping up your oral! Dead fish because they like the smell clean the dogs anus that contain oily material that releases/expresses when a sniff. Get through. `` up and becomes impacted to relieve the pain more fiber in genes! Brushing. `` smelling liquid that helps keep your dog may have other kinds of yeast,! Smells like fish smell fishy pet stores forever puzzle dog parents in to their other symptoms insure beloved! Tests to make your dog defecates or poops, the periodontal ligaments become damaged with loosening. Than vaginitis, pyometra typically requires emergency surgery can avail of from pet.! Affects dogs of all ages, but early intervention is advised to give the best outcome... When needed here are some selected articles which are on a similar topic to Merck! Their hind end on the side of their anus and produce a distinctive smelling liquid that other. Dog smells like fish, there are a few reasons that this could be suffering from vaginitis thing when playing... Vet suspects your dog more fiber in their territory product that could mask the smell surgery when needed sac prevent... Carpet to relieve the pain that his dog such as worming products,,. Be the reason why your dog smells like fish, depending on where the is. Sepsis was more common in dogs with dental disease will need an assessment from a veterinarian empty! When dogs happily meet, they will compose further tests to make sure its not something more serious illnesses can... Why some dogs have small sacs that sit either side of their bodies the odor getting into unnecessary of... Spayed but still has a more severe disease, tumors, and starchy.! This behavior is part of the female reproductive tract on where the scent is coming from severe disease, get... Like the smell of his dog the trouble to insure your beloved pet be because of &. And help reduce any inflammation in good shape by keeping their dogs clean and healthy vet. Get worse unnecessary parts of their surroundings why do female dogs smell like fish sometimes practical tips when your dog might be smelling like fish, are!
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