why does my dog smell like fish?
A fishy odor from your dog often indicates issues with their anal glands, which are two small sacs located on either side of the anus.
- 1Anal glands contain a strong-smelling, oily liquid normally expressed during defecation.
- 2Impaction, infection, or abscess of the anal glands can prevent natural expression, causing leakage and a distinct fishy odor.
- 3Other potential causes for a fishy smell include urinary tract infections (UTIs), skin infections (bacterial or yeast), or poor hygiene.
- 4Veterinary examination is crucial to diagnose the exact cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include manual expression or medication.
Detailed Answer
The most common reason a dog smells like fish is due to problems with their anal glands. These are two small sacs, located internally at approximately the 4 and 8 o'clock positions around the anus, that produce a foul-smelling, oily liquid. This fluid is typically expressed naturally when a dog defecates, serving as a territorial marker.
When anal glands become impacted, infected, or abscessed, they may not express properly. This can lead to leakage of the pungent fluid, resulting in a strong fishy odor emanating from your dog's rear end. Dogs with anal gland issues may also scoot their rear on the ground, lick excessively at their hindquarters, or strain to defecate.
Less commonly, a fishy smell can be attributed to other health issues such as a urinary tract infection, which can alter urine odor, or certain skin infections, particularly yeast infections, that produce distinct smells. Poor hygiene, especially in long-haired breeds, can also trap odors. A veterinary visit is recommended to accurately diagnose the cause of the odor and provide appropriate treatment.
Published: July 5, 2026