Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish? 4 Common Reasons

Dogs are known for their powerful sense of smell. But sometimes, their noses seem to be a bit too powerful, especially when they start smelling like fish.

So what’s going on here? Why does my dog smell like fish? And, more importantly, how can I make it stop?

Why do dogs smell like fish?

If your dog smells like fish, there could be a few different explanations.

Swimming in a lake or ocean

Swimming in a lake or ocean is a fun and refreshing experience, but it can also cause your dog to smell like fish.

This is because water and salt get trapped in the fur of dogs, causing them to give off an odor that can sometimes be fishy.

Eating fish

If your dog has been eating fish, this can also contribute to a fishy smell.

Some dogs will even enjoy the taste of raw fish or seafood, which can cause their breath to smell like fish as well.

Infections and other health conditions

A fishy smell could be caused by certain health conditions or infections in your dog.

This could include infection of the skin, urinary tract infections, or even something more serious like liver disease.

Anal gland disease

One final possible cause of a fishy smell in dogs is anal gland disease.

This can occur if your dog’s anal glands have become blocked or infected, leading to a strong, unpleasant odor coming from its rear end.

How to get rid of the fishy smell from dogs?

If your dog smells fishy, here is what you can do to get rid of it. It includes:

Take them to the vet to get checked out.

Many dog owners have experienced an unpleasant moment when they realize their beloved pet smells like fish.

While it’s certainly not the most pleasant scent, there is usually no cause for alarm.

More often than not, the cause is simply that your dog has rolled in something smelly.

However, if the fishy smell persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to take your dog to the vet for a check-up.

Fishy breath can be a sign of dental disease, while a fishy odor coming from the skin can indicate a number of different health problems.

In either case, it’s best to err on the side of caution and have your dog seen by a professional.

Bathing them with a non-scented shampoo

If you have a pet fish, you may have noticed that they sometimes give off a strong, fishy smell.

While this is perfectly normal for most kinds of fish, it can be unpleasant for owners.

In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to try and reduce the fishy smell, such as bathing them with a non-scented shampoo and brushing their fur regularly.

You should also make sure to clean their tank regularly, as dirty water can contribute to the problem. With a little effort, you can help keep your fish smelling fresh and clean.

Consult with a professional

If you notice an unpleasant smell in your home, it’s important to take action right away.

The cause could be something as simple as a dirty filter, or it could be a sign of a more serious problem.

If the smell persists after you’ve taken basic steps to clean the area and air out the room, it’s best to consult with a professional to find out what might be causing it.

They will be able to identify the source of the smell and recommend the best course of action.

In some cases, the problem can be resolved quickly and easily.

However, if the smell is caused by something like mold or rotting food, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid any health risks.

Final words

Many people are familiar with the unpleasant smell that can come from their dog’s fur.

While there are a number of reasons why a dog might smell fishy, it’s important to take your pet to the vet if you’re concerned about the odor.

In the meantime, there are a few things you can do at home to try and reduce the fishy smell.

Bathing your dog with a non-scented shampoo and brushing their fur regularly can help keep them clean and free of any unwanted smells.

If the problem persists, it’s best to consult with a professional who might be able to help identify what’s causing the fishy odor and how to treat it.