Frequent Why does my dogs back end smell fishy? The Ultimate Guide

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What should I do if my dog smells of fish? If you notice that your dog smells like fish, or are concerned about their health, then always

  • Feed your dog a good quality diet that contains the right amount of fibre
  • Make sure they’re getting enough regular exercise
  • Give your dog access to water so that they stay well hydrated
  • Keep an eye on your dog’s stools to ensure they’re not too soft
  • Keep your dog at a healthy weight. Some vets have suggested that dogs with obesity are more likely to develop anal sac issues, while others dispute this. Nonetheless, keeping your dog at a healthy weight is one of the best ways to maintain their overall health
  • Know the signs to watch out for that your dog may be beginning to suffer from anal sac issues

    • Fishy odor #1: Dental disease

    Perhaps you’re wondering “Why does my dog’s breath smell like fish?” Assuming that your dog doesn’t normally eat fish or a fish-based kibble, fishy breath could be a sign of dental disease in dogs (i.e. periodontal disease).

    It is estimated that 80% of dogs have some degree of periodontal disease by the age of two years. So there is a decent chance this is the culprit for your dog’s bad breath. Wondering why this is the case?

    Why does my dog smell of fish when they’re scared? A dog’s anal sacs produce a liquid that acts as a natural scent marker and are usually emptied when a dog has a poo. These sacs produce a liquid that helps dogs to identify themselves to others. When a dog is scared or stressed they sometimes naturally empty their anal sacs, releasing this distinctive fishy smelling substance. If your dog has emptied their anal sacs when scared then there is no need to contact your vet, but if your dog regularly smells of fish, has other signs, or you’re concerned about their health, then always

    If your female dog smells of fish, they may have a problem with the natural balance of normal yeast or bacteria in their vagina. It may also be a sign of a urinary tract infection or pyometra (infection of the womb). If your dog smells unpleasant or different, has any unusual discharge, or seems unwell, then contact your vet.

    Why Your Dog Smells Like Fish: Natural Remedy