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Dogs can be very smelly creatures; there’s no getting around it. They can smell for various reasons. But why do female dogs release a fishy smell? What’s up with that?
Does your female dog smell like fish? Are you worried she may have a medical problem? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be gross and scary when your dog smells like this.
We’ve put together some information about what can cause a female dog to smell fishy and what you can do to help her. Let’s get started!
What Causes a Female Dog to Smell Like Fish?
There are several things that can make a female dog release a fishy smell. We’ve created a list of some of the most common causes of this problem.
1. Anal Scent Gland Issues
Female and male dogs have anal scent glands that are located on either side of the anus. If the anal glands become impacted, they could release a fishy smell.
Along with smelling fishy, you may notice your female dog scooting her rear on the ground. This is a good indication she may have a problem with her anal scent glands.
2. Yeast Overgrowth
Another common cause of a female dog smelling like fish is yeast overgrowth. Yeast are normally found on all parts of your dog, and it’s not usually a problem in a healthy dog. However, if a dog’s immune system is fighting off another infection or she has other health issues, yeast overgrowth may occur. Her immune system doesn’t have enough power to fight off yeast, too.
Female dogs may develop yeast infections in their ears, vaginas, and more. And if you have a Shar Pei or your fur baby is from another dog breed that has wrinkled skin, she may develop yeast infections in her skin folds.
3. Dental Disease
Your female dog may also smell like fish because she has some form of dental disease. Dental disease may be caused by tooth decay, broken teeth, gum injuries, and more. As the dental disease becomes worse, it’s possible your dog could develop bad breath, which smells like fish.
4. Rolling in Garbage
Dogs may also develop a fishy smell if they’ve recently rolled in garbage. This may be the case if you recently had fish and your dog found it! They love to roll in anything that smells gross!
How to Help Your Dog If She Smells Like Fish
If your dog has a fishy smell and you have determined she’s not gotten into the trash, it’s good to call the vet. Your female dog may smell like fish because she has underlying medical conditions, such as those mentioned above.
The vet can check your dog and treat any medical problems she may have. Chances are she’ll start to smell good again once the issue’s been cleared up!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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