The Unmistakable Pong: Cracking the Case of the Fishy Dog
The other afternoon, I was enjoying a rare moment of peace. Cup of tea in hand, rain lashing against the window pane, a perfect Peak District scene. Fern, my whirlwind of a Spaniel, trotted in from the garden, shook herself vigorously, and settled by my feet. And then it hit me. A smell. Not your standard ‘wet dog’ aroma, but something far more… specific. A pungent, fishy pong that could curdle milk. My peaceful cuppa was ruined.
If you’re a dog owner, you’ve likely had a similar moment. That sudden, unpleasant whiff that makes you check the bin and then, with dawning horror, realise it’s coming from your furry best mate. It’s a baffling and frankly, a bit of a grim problem. But nine times out of ten, there’s a very straightforward, albeit slightly delicate, reason for it. So, let’s hold our noses and dive in.
The Bottom Line: Understanding Your Dog’s Anal Sacs
Right, let’s get the most common culprit out of the way first. It’s not the most glamorous topic, but we need to talk about your dog’s bum. Specifically, their anal sacs (often called anal glands).
What on earth are they? Anal sacs are two small pouches located on either side of your dog’s anus, at about the four and eight o’clock positions. They produce a foul-smelling, oily liquid that acts as a unique scent marker. When your dog has a poo, the pressure naturally expresses a tiny bit of this liquid. It’s their version of a calling card, telling other dogs, “Buster was here.”
The problem arises when these sacs don’t empty properly. This can lead to a few issues:
- Impaction: The fluid becomes thick and paste-like, blocking the sac. This is when the pressure builds up, and the fishy smell can leak out, especially when your dog is relaxed or sleeping.
- Infection: If an impacted sac isn’t sorted, it can become infected and very painful.
- Abscess: A severely infected sac can lead to a painful, swollen abscess that may burst. This is a definite and urgent trip to the vet.
Key takeaway: A persistent fishy smell is the number one sign that your dog might be having trouble with their anal sacs. It’s not just a weird quirk; it’s a signal they need a bit of help.
Beyond the Bum: Other Common Culprits of Fishy Odours
While anal sacs are the usual suspects, that fishy smell can sometimes be a red herring, pointing to other issues entirely. Before you focus solely on the rear end, it’s worth investigating these other possibilities.
A Whiff from the Gnashers (Dental Issues)
If the smell seems to be coming from your dog’s mouth, it’s time to check their teeth. A buildup of plaque and tartar can lead to dental disease, which often produces a rotten, sometimes fishy, breath. Have a gentle look at their gums – are they red, swollen, or bleeding? Bad breath isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can be a sign of painful problems that need professional attention.
Trouble with the Waterworks (Urinary Tract Infections)
A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) can also cause a distinctly fishy smell in your dog’s urine. If you notice the smell is strongest after they’ve had a wee, or if they’re weeing more often, straining, or having accidents in the house, a UTI could be to blame. This definitely warrants a call to the vet.
More Than Skin Deep (Coat & Skin Problems)
Sometimes, bacterial or yeast infections on the skin can produce a whole range of strange odours, including a fishy one. Check for any red, irritated patches, greasy fur, or excessive scratching. Areas like the ears, paws, and skin folds are particularly common spots for these infections to take hold.
You Are What You Eat (Dietary Influences)
This is where my food-obsessed Lab, Buster, comes in. Some dog foods and supplements, particularly those with fish oil or fish-based ingredients, can lead to a fishy odour coming from their skin or breath. It’s usually less intense than an anal sac issue, but it’s something to consider if you’ve recently changed their diet.
A Girl Thing? Female-Specific Fishy Smells
For owners of female dogs, it’s worth noting that infections like vaginitis can also produce an unpleasant, sometimes fishy, discharge and odour. If you notice your female dog licking her private area more than usual, or see any swelling or discharge, it’s crucial to get it checked out by a vet to rule out anything serious.
When to Sniff Out Professional Help
I’m a firm believer in not panicking, but some signs should never be ignored. That fishy smell is often an early warning. Give your vet a ring if you spot any of the following:
- Scooting: Dragging their bottom along the floor is a classic sign of irritation.
- Excessive Licking: Constantly licking or chewing at their rear end or tail base.
- Pain or Discomfort: Crying out when you touch their back end, or being reluctant to sit down.
- Visible Swelling: Any noticeable lumps, bumps, or redness around their anus.
- Discharge: Any bloody or pus-like fluid seen on their bedding or fur.
Remember: You are your dog’s best advocate. If you feel something isn’t right, it’s always better to be safe and seek professional advice.
Practical Prevention & At-Home Help
While some issues require a vet, there are a few practical things you can do to help prevent the dreaded fishy pong from returning.
Bulking Up the Stool
The most effective way for anal sacs to empty naturally is through firm, healthy poos. If your dog’s stools are consistently soft, they might not be putting enough pressure on the sacs to express them. Adding a bit of fibre can work wonders.
Practical Tip: A spoonful of plain pumpkin purée (not the spiced pie filling!) or a few cooked green beans added to their dinner can help firm things up. Check with your vet for the right amount for your dog’s size.
Good Grub, Good Guts
A high-quality, balanced diet is the foundation of good health, from their nose to their tail… and everything in between. A good diet supports healthy digestion, which in turn leads to healthy poos and, hopefully, healthy anal sacs. If you suspect food allergies are causing skin issues or digestive upset, have a chat with your vet about potential dietary changes.
Debunking a Whiffy Myth
There’s a common belief that all dogs need their anal sacs expressed regularly by a groomer or vet. This isn’t necessarily true. A healthy dog with a good diet should be able to manage this function perfectly well on their own. Routine expression can sometimes cause irritation and lead to more problems. It should only be done when there’s a clear medical need for it, as advised by your vet.
Related Posts
