How To Get Rid of Fishy Smell From Dog?

Is your dog smelling fishy? Want to get rid of the fishy smell? Then, this blog is for you. 

Often, this fishy smell is unnatural. It can be a sign of an underlying health issue in your dog for which veterinary attention is needed. 

A fishy-smelling dog may have problems with their anal sacs. It can also signify dental issues, digestive conditions, or infections. Some common fixes are cleaning, grooming, brushing teeth, good food, and a healthy and clean lifestyle for the dog. 

Here, I’ll discuss the possible causes and remedies for this issue. So, stay tuned.

What are the Main Reasons that may have Caused this Problem?

 If your dog smells fishy, various reasons may have caused the problem, but the most common reasons and preventions-

1. Anal Scar

 A dog’s anal gland is reasonable for its distinct smell. If a foul fishy smell is coming  from the lower back, it may be caused by

• Infection In The Gland.
• Anal Sac Impaction.
• Tumor.

Cure/Prevention/General Treatment:

This may sound horrible, but this is treated simply in most cases. You should seek help from a vet and follow the solutions given below.

• Antibiotics.
• Ointments.
• Steroids.
• Washing And Cleaning With Disinfectant.

2. Dental Issue

Though dogs are carnivorous animals, they are also prone to dental problems. If your dog has fishy breath, It can be happening from 

• Gum Problem.
• Tooth Decay.
• Broken And Loose Teeth.
• Digestive Problems.
• Kidney Disease.
• Diabetes.

Cure/Prevention/General Treatment:

Maintaining oral health is simple and hassle-free once your dog is trained. To prevent and cure oral and gum-related problems, just follow these:

• Brush Its Teeth Regularly.
• Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene.
• Vitamin C Supplements.
• Uproot Damaged Teeth.
• Use Gum Hygiene Products.
• Use A Dog-Grade Mouth Freshener.

3. Digestive Conditions

If your dog is having issues digesting certain types of food, that can lead to a fishy smell coming from the dog. Like humans, dogs are unable to digest some foods and food products. If a dog can’t digest its food, it can cause digestive issues and smell.

Cure/Prevention/General Treatment:

Don't get overwhelmed when facing this fishy issue due to digestive conditions or poor quality of gut health. Just make sure you’re following the solutions given below. 

• Use High-Quality Dog Food.
• Avoid Poor Sources Of Protein.
• Include Fiber In The Diet.
• Easy Digestive Food.
• Avoid Food That’s Left Out For Too Long.
• Use Digestive-Inducing Medicine.

4. Infection

Most of the time visible scars/open wounds can cause this issue of fishy smell. Open wounds are more likely to get infected if that is left unnoticed. It can be infected with bacteria and cause a thick fishy smell.

Cure/Prevention/General Treatment:

Infarction is terrible for anyone; your companion is not out of this. Infections can lead to other health issues. Don’t be upset. Just follow the leads.

• Wash And Rinse With Clean Water.
• Use Anti-Fungal And Bacterial Products To Wipe.
• Use An Ointment/Moisturizer.
• Use A Clean Bandage To Cover The Ruptured Skin.
• Use Antibiotics For Healing.
• May Use A Killer If The Dog Is Suffering From Pain.

5. Ear Infections

If the fishy odor is coming from your dog, this can be caused by,

• Liquid Builds Up Inside The Ear.
• Yeast Overgrowth.
• Lack Of Routine Ear Cleaning.
• Bite From Another Dog Or Animal.

Cure/Prevention/General Treatment:

Preventing fishy smell from the ear may sound tedious but easier than other problems. Follow the suggestions, and your dog will get rid of it.

• Clean Both Ears Regularly.
• Avoid Piercing.
• Use Antifungal Wipe/Ointment.
• Use Antibiotic Doses If Needed.

6. Bacteria or Yeast Infections of the Genitalia

This only happens to female dogs. If your female dog smells down there, it’s the cause of natural yeast, a bacterial imbalance in its vagina.

Cure/Prevention/General treatment:

The cure for this problem needs special attention and continuous follow-ups. Follow the suggestions and make adjustments that improve living conditions.

• Bathe Your Dog Regularly.
• Use Genital Ph-Maintaining Products.
• Keep Your Dog In Open, Fresh Air.
• Don’t Let It Mix With Stray Dogs.

7. Kidney Disease and Urinary Tract Infection

Internal damage/injuries can contribute to the fishy smell. When your dog’s urine is smelling like very pungent and fishy, that indicates for

• Kidney Disease.
• Urinary Tract Infection.
• Kidney Stone.
• Bladder Stone.

Cure/Prevention/General Treatment:

Don’t panic. We’ve got you covered. Just follow the points mentioned below. If you take good care with proper medication, this won’t be a big issue.

• Let It Drink Clean Water.
• Give Medications For Kidney Functions.
• Avoid Heavy And Greasy Food.

8. Skin Conditions Like Dandruff

Yeast infections, bacterial infections, or fungal infections can lead to a distinct fishy smell. Dry skin may cause dandruff which often has a fishy smell. Fungal and yeast infection on the skin also contributes to this smell.

Cure/Prevention/General Treatment:

Skin problems are common for dogs, these are easily treatable. Follow proper grooming tips and make sure to do all the advice mentioned below.

• Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo.
• Use Moisturizing Oil.
• Avoid Extra Dry Climate.
• Comb Body Hair Regularly.

9. Periodontal Disease

Your dog's mouth can be infected with a bacteria called periodontitis causing this foul smell. This can lead to more complex gum and immune disease if not treated carefully.

Cure/Prevention/General treatment:

This is not a serious health issue for carnivorous animals. It’s a natural phenomenon. Still, if you want to get rid of it, just follow the steps.

• Use Mouth Freshener.
• Use A Caring Product.
• Use Oral Medication.
• Uproot Damaged Teeth.

10. Autoimmune Disease

Skin is the first layer of defense against any kind of viral or physical attack on any animal. Your dog may be suffering from an autoimmune disease. It’s a condition when the protective 2nd layer of the skin is fighting against its own body.

Cure/Prevention/General Treatment:

There is nothing much you can do here; just listen to the doctor’s advice and follow the given cures.

• Treatment With Prednisone Or Dexamethasone.
• Don’t Let The Dog Get Hurt; It Can Trigger The Problem Even More.

Some General Cures and Prevention From Fishy Smell

Apart from physical problems, some other issues could contribute to the fishy smell. If your dog doesn’t have health issues but smells, you can follow these remedies.

1. Use an anti-smelling cleaning product.
2. Keep your dog clean.
3. Use good hygiene products.
4. Avoid dirty and smelly places.
5. Groom your dog thoroughly.
6. Buy quality food.
7. Regular checkups with a vet.
8. Avoid feed made from fish.
9. Use anti-nausea and digestive medicine.
10. Train your dog with the goal in mind that it should avoid dirty and smelly places.
11. Give salt water baths to avoid bacterial and fungal infections.

Some Considerations

You’re concerned about your dog; that’s why you’re here to improve its health conditions. Follow the suggestions that suit your dog’s problems, but keep these in mind:

1. Use the medicine as the doctor will prescribe.

2. Don’t overdose your dog with medicine.

3. Use only dog-grade products.

4. Take your dog to a vet once in a while.

Conclusion

As you’re already aware of the fishy smell and why it’s happening, you must handle the problem with urgency as it can cause greater problems later on. You must take the necessary actions to treat your dog and get rid of the fishy smell. Moreover, you must take your dog to a vet if you can relate fishy smells and symptoms to your dog.

If you detect the problem causing the fishy smell and follow the steps we’ve mentioned above for the particular problem, you’ll surely get rid of the fishy smell. If you have lost your favorite pet or have found one, post an update on PawMaw. Our engaging and compassionate community will help that bundle of joy to return home as soon as possible.