Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish?

Introduction

If your dog suddenly smells like fish, it can be surprising — and honestly, a little worrying.

It’s one of those topics many dog owners quietly search for, often without really understanding what’s behind it.

The good news is: in most cases, it’s a common and manageable issue once you understand the cause.

What Causes the Fishy Smell?

The most common reason is the anal glands.

Dogs have two small scent glands located near the anus. These glands produce a strong-smelling fluid that is normally released naturally during bowel movements.

When everything works properly, you won’t notice them at all.

But when they don’t empty correctly, that’s when the smell appears.

Why Do Anal Glands Become a Problem?

There are several underlying reasons:

1. Soft Stool (Most Common Cause)
If a dog’s stool is too soft, there isn’t enough pressure to naturally empty the glands.

2. Digestive Imbalance
Poor digestion can affect stool quality and overall gut health.

3. Diet Quality
Highly processed foods or treats with unclear ingredients can contribute to inconsistent digestion.

4. Allergies or Sensitivities
Food sensitivities can lead to inflammation, which may also affect the glands.

5. Lack of Fibre or Structure in Diet
The wrong balance can result in stool that is either too soft or irregular.

Signs Your Dog May Be Affected

• A strong fishy smell (sudden or recurring)
• Scooting (dragging bottom across the floor)
• Excessive licking or biting the rear area
• Discomfort when sitting
• Swelling or irritation (in more severe cases)

Why It’s Important Not to Ignore It

Occasional issues can happen, but if left unresolved, anal gland problems can develop into:

• Infections
• Abscesses
• Painful inflammation

This is why it’s important to look at the root cause — not just the symptom.

Supporting Your Dog Naturally

Instead of focusing only on external solutions, it’s worth looking at internal balance.

✔ Focus on digestion and stool quality:
• Well-balanced, digestible nutrition
• Consistent feeding routines

✔ Monitor stool:
Healthy stool should be firm, well-formed, and easy to pass.

✔ Identify sensitivities:
Some dogs react to certain proteins or ingredients.

✔ Keep things simple:
Dogs often do better on fewer, clearly defined ingredients rather than complex mixtures.

The Role of Diet (Often Overlooked)

One of the most overlooked factors in anal gland issues is what your dog eats every day.

Diet directly affects:

• Digestion
• Stool consistency
• Gut health
• Inflammation levels

Even small adjustments can make a noticeable difference over time.

When to See a Vet

You should always consult a vet if you notice: ‍

• Persistent or worsening symptoms
• Swelling or visible discomfort
• Signs of infection
• Repeated issues despite dietary changes

Final Thoughts

A fishy smell is not just unpleasant — it’s a signal.

In many cases, it points to something slightly out of balance internally.

Understanding the cause and supporting your dog from within can often make a big difference — not just for this issue, but for overall wellbeing.

A Small Note From Us

At Lecker Bites, we often see dogs improve when their diet is simplified and focused on clean, single-ingredient options.

If you’re reviewing your dog’s treats, it may be worth choosing natural, easily digestible options that support gut health rather than working against it.

👉 Check out our Freeze Dried Tripe Mix