Why does my dog smell like fish? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog smells like fish, it’s often coming from the mouth, ears, skin, paws or rear end rather than from the coat alone. Sometimes it’s just a grooming issue, but a persistent fishy smell can also point to something that needs a closer look.
The good news is that there are a few simple checks you can make at home before you decide what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Notice where the smell seems strongest, such as the mouth, ears, skin, paws or tail end.
2. Check the ears for wax, discharge, redness, scratching or a yeasty smell mixed with the fishy odour.
3. Look at the skin and coat for damp patches, greasiness, dandruff, redness or sore areas.
4. Smell and inspect the paws, especially between the toes, for trapped dirt, moisture or irritation.
5. Watch for licking, scooting, rubbing or repeated attention to one area.
6. Check the mouth if your dog allows it, especially for bad breath, broken teeth, gum redness or food trapped around the lips.
7. Think about whether the smell started after bathing, swimming, muddy walks or a change in routine.
8. Notice any changes in poo, gland area discomfort or signs your dog is straining when toileting.
Common Causes
A fishy smell from the mouth can happen with dental issues, trapped food or general oral hygiene problems.
Fishy odour from the ears may be linked to wax build-up, moisture or an ear irritation that needs attention.
If the smell is from the skin or coat, it can be due to natural oils, dampness, dirt or a skin problem that’s making the coat smell stronger than usual.
Some dogs smell fishy around the rear end because of anal gland fluid, especially if they are scooting, licking or seem uncomfortable.
Less commonly, a strong or persistent odour can be connected to a skin infection, ear infection or another underlying issue that needs a vet’s assessment.
What To Do
Start by working out exactly where the smell is coming from. That makes it much easier to judge whether you’re dealing with grooming, moisture, ears, mouth or rear-end hygiene.
If your dog is otherwise well, keep the area clean and dry, and stick to a regular grooming routine. After wet walks or swimming, dry the coat carefully, especially around the ears, paws and skin folds.
If the smell seems to be from the mouth, regular tooth brushing and dental care may help support better everyday hygiene. If it seems to be from the ears, avoid putting anything into the ear canal unless your vet has told you to do so.
If you suspect the rear end or anal glands, don’t try to squeeze them yourself unless you’ve been shown how to do it safely. A vet or groomer may be able to advise what’s appropriate.
Keep a note of when the smell starts, what seems to trigger it and whether any other signs appear. That can be very helpful if you need to speak to a vet.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the smell is persistent, getting worse, or comes with redness, discharge, pain, swelling, scooting, head shaking, repeated licking or changes in appetite or behaviour. These signs can mean there’s more going on than simple grooming or odour.
It’s also worth getting advice if the smell keeps coming back after cleaning and drying, or if you can’t find an obvious source.
Related Questions
Why does my dog smell fishy after swimming?
Can anal glands make a dog smell like fish?
Why does my dog smell even after a bath?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.