Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish? | Causes, Solutions – 2025

One are not alone if you have lately noticed an unusual, bad, fishy smell coming from your dog. Many animal lovers notice a dog smell like fish and wonder what’s causing it. That strange fishy smell can be concerning whether it relates to the animal’s breath, urine, or rear end.

We’ll explain why your dog might smell like fish, especially if you have a female dog with a fishy smell, what health concerns it may signal, and how to manage or prevent it. We’ll also answer common pet parent questions like why does my dog’s urine smell like fish and why does my dog’s butt smell like fish.

Common Reasons Why Your Dog Smells Like Fish

Anal Gland Issues

One of the most common causes of a fishy smell from your dog’s anus is anal gland secretion. Two tiny anal sacs on either side of their rectum allow dogs to spontaneously produce a scent-marking fluid. Should these glands are damaged or diseased, they can emit a fishy, bad smell.

Signs of anal gland problems:

• dragging their bottom over the floor or scowing.
• Fishy smells coming from your dog’s behind.
• At the anus, licking or biting.
• dark red swelling around the rear end.

If your dog’s butt smells fishy, a vet can by hand express the glands or treat any infection present.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

If Dog Owner noticed your dog’s pee smells like fish, Mostly in female dogs, a urinary tract infection might be to blame. Bacteria in the urinary system can alter the odor of dog’s urine, often causing it to smell sharp, sour, or fishy.

Signs of a UTI in dogs:

• Frequent urination.
• Accidents inside the house.
• Blood in the urine.
• Straining to pee.

Dental or Oral Health Problems

a few a fishy smell from your dog’s mouth is due to dental disease. Particularly in cases of gum disease, plaque development, or oral infections in animals, bacteria in the mouth can create offensive smells.

Signs of dental issues:

• Bad breath.
• Swollen or bleeding gums.
• Reluctance to eat hard foods.

Skin Infections

An fishy smell from a dog’s coat or skin can be caused by yeast or bacterial infections. Usually occurring in places with moisture buildup, including under skin folds, armpits, or ears, these illnesses can strike anywhere.

Symptoms:

• Fishy or sour odor from skin or coat.
• Red, itchy, or inflamed skin.
• Oozing or crusty patches.

Why Does My Female Dog Smell Like Fish?

If Pet Owner wondering why does my female dog smell fishy, it could be due to:

• Anal gland problems (most common cause).
• UTIs (especially common in females).
• Vaginal infections.
• Hormonal changes during heat cycles.

The female dog smells fishy, and you should pay heed especially if strange behavior or discharge accompany it.

When to See a Vet

While occasional odors can happen, you should contact a vet if:

• The fishy smell persists for more than 24 hours.
• Dog shows signs of discomfort, scooting, or excessive licking.
• Blood in dog’s urine or stool.
• smell is accompanied by changes in appetite, behavior, or energy.

Early treatment ensures dog remains healthy and prevents complications.

How to Prevent Fishy Smells in Dogs

To lower your dog’s likelihood of smelling horrible or starting regular fishy smells:

Regular Grooming:

Especially around delicate parts like the anus and ears, keep your dog’s coat fresh and tidy.

Express Anal Glands When Needed:

Certain dogs—especially smaller breeds—may require occasional anal gland expression by a groomer or veterinarian.

Maintain Good Dental Hygiene:

Brush your dog’s teeth regularly and schedule professional cleanings.

Hydrate and Offer a Balanced Diet:

Proper nutrition and water intake help support healthy digestion and urinary health.

Use Quality Waste Disposal Tools:

When cleaning up after pet, use tools like a pooper scooper rake, dog poop catcher, or poop stick for hygienic, odor-free waste removal. Eco-friendly dog products like our Heavy Dootie Poop Bags with handles make disposal cleaner and safer.

Final Thoughts 

A fishy smell from your dog can be unpleasant, however it’s usually manageable and treatable. Typical causes range from dental difficulties to skin infections to anal gland disorders and urinary tract infections. Early discovery and appropriate treatment will fix the problem and keep your pet smelling clean and healthy.

Check out our Heavy Dootie Poop Bags and GoGo Stik® Pooper Scooper & Poop Catcher, meant to make outdoor walks and park visits mess-free, for hassle-free waste cleanings.

FAQs

Q1: Why does my dog smell like fish after going to the bathroom?
This is typically due to anal gland fluid leakage. These glands naturally produce a fishy-smelling substance. If they’re full, impacted, or infected, they can leak.

Q2: What causes a fishy smell from my female dog’s pee?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common reason. Consult your vet for a urine test and treatment options.

Q3: Can a dog’s diet cause fishy odors?
Yes, diets high in fish-based proteins or poor-quality food can cause odor changes. Switching to a well-balanced, high-quality diet often resolves the issue.

Q4: How can I manage my dog’s waste odor when outdoors?
Use tools like a pooper scooper rake or poop stick and dispose of waste in eco-friendly poop bags with handles.

Q5: Should I be worried if my dog smells fishy only occasionally?
Occasional odors aren’t typically serious but should be monitored. Persistent or recurring fishy smells should be examined by a vet.