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Dogs are known for their sense of smell. But sometimes, that keen sense of smell can result in some pretty interesting odors emanating from our furry friends. If you’ve ever wondered “Why does my dog smell like fish?”, you’re not alone.
In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind this fishy odor and what you can do about it. There are a few possible reasons why your dog may smell like fish. It could be due to something as simple as what they ate or rolled in, or it could be a sign of a more serious health condition. Let’s take a closer look at each of these possibilities.
Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish?
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Many dog owners have noticed that their dogs sometimes smell like fish. While this may not be a problem for some people, others find it quite off-putting. There are a few different reasons why your dog might smell like fish:
Rolling Into Something Fishy
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One reason why your dog might smell like fish is because they have rolled in something smelly. This is most likely to happen if you live near water or take your dog for walks in areas where there are a lot of dead leaves and other organic matter. If your dog has rolled in something smelly, the best way to get rid of the smell is to give them a good bath.
A Possible Infection Perhaps
Another reason why your dog might smell like fish is because they have an infection. This is most likely to be the case if the fishy smell is accompanied by other symptoms like excessive scratching, redness, or discharge. If you think your dog might have an infection, it’s important to take them to the vet so they can be treated.
They Might Have The PICA
A third reason why your dog might smell like fish is because they have a condition called pica. This is a condition where dogs eat things that they shouldn’t, like dirt or rocks. If your dog has pica, they may be attracted to the smell of fish because it reminds them of something they’ve eaten before. If you think your dog has pica, it’s important to take them to the vet so they can be treated.
A Wet Dog Smells Like Fish
The fourth and final reason why your dog might smell like fish is because they are wet. When dogs get wet, their fur can absorb the water and start to smell like fish. This is most likely to happen if your dog has been swimming or if they have been out in the rain.
They Ate Something Fishy
Another possibility is that your dog simply ate something fishy. This is most likely to happen if you feed your dog table scraps or if they get into the garbage. If your dog has eaten something fishy, the best way to get rid of the smell is to give them a good bath.
Maybe Your Dog Like It
Finally, your dog might smell like fish because they simply like the smell. Some dogs are just attracted to the smell of fish, and there’s nothing you can do about it. If this is the case, you may just have to accept that your dog is going to smell like fish from time to time.
What To Do When Your Dog Smells Like Fish
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There are a few things you can do when your dog smells like fish.
Locate The Source
First, you can try to find the source of the smell and clean it up. This may be something as simple as giving your dog a bath with an anti-bacterial shampoo. If the smell persists, you may need to take your dog to the vet for a check-up.
Rule Out Medical Conditions
Second, you should rule out any medical conditions that could be causing the fishy smell. If your dog has a skin condition like seborrhea, this can cause an intense fishy odor. Other medical conditions that can cause your dog to smell like fish include kidney disease, liver disease, and diabetes.
Talk To Your Vet
If you can’t find the source of the fishy smell or if you suspect your dog has a medical condition, you should talk to your vet. They will be able to help you diagnose the problem and find a solution.
Final Thoughts
If your dog smells like fish, it could be due to a number of reasons. However, the most common cause is likely due to an infection in their anal glands. If you notice that your dog’s anal glands are swollen or they are scooting their butt along the ground, it’s important to take them to the vet right away. Other causes of a fishy smell could be due to a dietary issue or an underlying health condition, so it’s always best to speak with your vet to rule out any serious problems.
While a dog that smells like fish can be off-putting, it’s generally not a sign of anything serious. However, if the smell is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s always best to speak with your vet to rule out any underlying health problems.
We hope this article helped you better understand why your dog smells like fish and what you can do about it. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

I’m Nathan Koster, an experienced dog nutritionist and blogger. As the owner of Dog efficientdog.com, I strive to provide accurate, up-to-date information on canine health and nutrition so that pet owners can make the best decisions for their beloved pups. With years of research and a passion for helping others, I’m committed to creating a helpful resource for pet owners. Thank you for visiting my blog!