Why Does My Dogs Breath Smell Like Fish

As a dedicated dog owner, you've probably encountered a diverse range of smells associated with your canine companion. However, if you're now detecting a fishy scent coming from your furry friend's breath, you might find yourself perplexed. Similar to humans, unusual odors can serve as indicators of potential underlying health matters in dogs. If the aroma of fish is wafting from your dog's breath, grasping the possible reasons and knowing when it's time to consult a veterinarian becomes crucial.

Why Does My Dogs Breath Smell Like Fish?

Dog's breath smells like fish all the time

If your dog's breath consistently smells like fish, it might be indicative of an underlying health issue. Some possible causes include:

• Dental Problems: Dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay, can lead to bacterial growth in the mouth, resulting in a foul odor resembling fish.
• Gastrointestinal Problems: Certain gastrointestinal conditions can cause bad breath. If there's a problem with digestion or the stomach, it can manifest as an unusual odor.
• Kidney Disease: Kidney problems can lead to a buildup of waste products in the body, which can be exhaled through the breath and create an unpleasant smell.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can cause a fruity or fishy breath odor due to the presence of acetone in the breath.

Dog's breath smells like fish all of a sudden

If your dog's breath suddenly develops a fishy odor, there could be some specific triggers:

• Dietary Changes: A sudden change in your dog's diet can sometimes lead to changes in their breath odor. Certain foods might cause unusual smells to emanate from the mouth.
• Ingestion of Something Unusual: Dogs are known to eat a variety of things they shouldn't. If your dog ingests something with a strong odor, it can affect their breath temporarily.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: An upset stomach or digestive disturbance can temporarily alter your dog's breath odor.
• Oral Injury or Infection: A sudden fishy smell could be due to an oral injury or infection that happened recently. Bacterial growth in response to such injuries or infections can result in odor.

How to Stop My Dogs Breath From Smelling Like Fish?

1. Regular Dental Care

Brush your dog's teeth regularly with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Aim for at least a few times a week.
Dental chews, dental powder, or toys designed to promote oral health can also help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. 
If your dog's bad breath persists, consult your vet about the possibility of professional dental cleaning under anesthesia.

2. Treat the Underlying Gastrointestinal Disease

• Medication: These medications could include antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or other drugs to target and alleviate gastrointestinal problems.
• Probiotics: Probiotic supplements may be recommended to restore and maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can positively impact gastrointestinal health.
• Hydration: Ensure your dog remains adequately hydrated. Maintaining proper hydration supports gastrointestinal function.
• Meal Frequency and Portion Control: Follow your vet's guidance on meal frequency and portion sizes. This might help manage the workload on your dog's digestive system.

3. Healthy Diet

Feeding your dog high-quality, balanced, and appropriate dog food can impact their breath. Poor-quality food or an improper diet can lead to digestive issues and bad breath.

Quality dog food is characterized by its nutritional content, ingredient quality, and appropriateness for a dog's life stage and health needs.

• High-quality dog food should list a specific protein source (e.g., chicken, beef, fish) as the primary ingredient. This protein should come from real meat, poultry, or fish rather than by-products or ambiguous terms like "meat meal."
• If present, whole grains like brown rice or oats can provide valuable nutrients and fiber. Carbohydrates should be easily digestible and not heavily processed.
• Quality dog food often includes fruits and vegetables as sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These ingredients contribute to overall health.
• No Artificial Additives

4. Avoid Table Scraps

Avoid feeding your dog table scraps, especially foods that are strongly flavored, spicy, or fish-based. Human food can contribute to bad breath and digestive problems in dogs.

5. Regular Exercise

Regular exercise can contribute to better overall health, including oral health. Physical activity can help with digestion and circulation, which in turn can impact breath freshness.

When Should You Worry About Fishy Dog Breath?

Fishy dog breath can be a sign of various underlying issues, ranging from minor concerns to more serious health problems. If you notice persistent fishy breath or any other concerning symptoms in your dog, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian. Like:

• Persistent Bad Breath
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Excessive drooling
• Potentially toxic
• Liver or Kidney Problems
• Diabetes

Learning to recognize the symptoms is important. Early detection and treatment are key to addressing any potential health issues and ensuring your dog's well-being.

Can Diet Cure Stinky Breath in Dogs?

Diet can play a significant role in addressing stinky breath in dogs, but it's important to note that it might not be a standalone solution, especially if the bad breath is caused by an underlying medical issue. However, improving your dog's diet can contribute to better oral health and fresher breath in many cases. Such as certain diets are formulated to promote dental health. Dental-specific kibble or treats designed to reduce tartar and plaque buildup can help maintain cleaner teeth and fresher breath. And a well-balanced diet that supports your dog's overall health can indirectly affect their breath. Proper nutrition contributes to good digestion, which can reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues that might cause bad breath.

Are You Sure It’s Their Breath?

The unpleasant fishy smell coming from your dog may not actually be originating from its mouth, as you might initially assume. Instead, the source of the issue could be connected to matters located at the opposite end of your dog's body. This disagreeable aroma might be a result of secretions from your dog's anal sacs. These secretions carry a distinct scent often compared to the smell of fish. If your dog's odor strongly resembles that of fish, it's highly probable that there's an issue with their anal glands. The good news is that there are effective ways to address and manage this specific odor.

Anal Sac Disease

Anal sac disease, also known as anal gland disease or anal sac impaction, is a relatively common condition that affects dogs. Dogs have two small sacs located on either side of their anus, known as anal sacs or anal glands. These sacs produce a foul-smelling fluid that is normally expelled when the dog defecates. This fluid serves a territorial marking and communication purpose in the wild.

However, sometimes these anal sacs can become problematic. Anal sac disease can refer to a range of issues that involve the anal sacs, including:

Anal Sac Impaction

This is the most frequent manifestation of anal sac disease. It arises when the anal sacs fail to adequately empty, resulting in the fluid thickening and becoming viscous. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and occasionally, infection.

Anal Sac Infection (Abscess)

When the anal sacs become impacted and the fluid cannot be expelled properly, bacteria can multiply and cause an infection. This can result in an abscess, which is a swollen, painful lump near the anus that might rupture and drain pus.

Anal Sac Rupture

If an anal sac becomes severely impacted or infected, it can rupture, causing pain, inflammation, and drainage of the foul-smelling fluid and pus.

Tumors and Cysts

In certain instances, dogs may develop tumors or cysts within their anal sacs, leading to discomfort, pain, and potentially more severe health complications.

Symptoms of Anal Sac Disease

• Scooting: Dragging the rear end along the ground.
• Excessive licking or biting of the anal area.
• Foul odor around the anus.
• Swelling or redness near the anus.
• Discomfort or pain during bowel movements or when sitting.
• Difficulty defecating.
• Signs of discomfort, restlessness, or agitation.
• Visible discharge of pus or blood from the anal area.

How to Treat Anal Sac Disease?

The vet can perform a physical examination, diagnose the issue, and recommend appropriate treatment. Treatment may involve manually expressing the anal sacs, providing antibiotics for infections, or in more severe cases, draining abscesses or surgically removing affected anal sacs. Regular grooming and proper diet can sometimes help prevent anal sac issues in dogs.

How to Prevent Anal Sac Disease?

Fiber Supplements

If your veterinarian recommends it, adding a fiber supplement to your dog's diet can promote healthy bowel movements and prevent constipation. 
There are several fiber-rich foods that dogs can safely consume to promote healthy digestion. Like: pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas, and brown rice.

Regular Grooming

Regular grooming can help keep the area around the anal sacs clean and minimize the chances of impaction. Trimming the fur around the anus can prevent the accumulation of debris.

Addressing Health Issues Promptly

If your dog has any underlying health conditions, such as allergies or gastrointestinal problems, managing these issues can contribute to the prevention of anal sac disease.

Related:

Dog Gland Removal Pros and Cons

2023 Guide to Home Remedies for Dog Scooting

Intestinal Worms in Dogs

How to Express Dog Anal Glands？

Steps for Expressing Dog Anal Glands:

1. Locate the Glands: The anal glands are located on either side of the anus, at about the 4 and 8 o'clock positions when looking at the dog's rear. They are small, pea-sized sacs.

2. Apply Lubricant: Apply a small amount of water-based lubricant to your gloved fingertip. This will help ease the process and prevent any discomfort.

3. Expression Technique:

Gently lift the dog's tail to expose the anus.
Place your gloved finger on the area where you feel the anal glands.
Apply gentle pressure on the glands, pushing them toward the anus. You might feel a small amount of fluid being released. Be very gentle to avoid causing harm.
Clean-Up and Disposal: Use the tissue or paper towels to clean up any fluid released. Dispose of the materials properly.

Wipe and Disinfect: After expressing, gently wipe the anal area with a damp cloth or dog-friendly wipes to clean the area. You can also use a mild antiseptic if recommended by your vet.

Praise and Reward: Offer your dog praise and treats for cooperating during the procedure.

Conclusion

A fishy smell in your dog's breath can have various causes, ranging from dietary choices to underlying health conditions. Identifying the source of the odor through veterinary consultation and appropriate care is crucial for maintaining your dog's health and happiness. By addressing the issue promptly and effectively, you can ensure that your furry companion continues to enjoy a fresh and pleasant-smelling breath.