You are about to leave for work and as usual, you lean over to give your pup a kiss. During their sloppy kiss, you are hit by an odor that gets you thinking, why does my dogs breath smell like fish? Your dog looks up at you innocently and you are left wondering what to do.
Well, if this is you, other Redditors can understand your situation. Fishy dog breath isn’t just gross. It could also be a sign of something more serious. Before you panic, though, we’re going to break this down. What causes that smell? How can you get rid of it? Here are all the answers to your questions.
What Causes Breath to Smell Like Fish?
There are several reasons. Dogs might not smell like roses 24/7, but when their breath reeks of something straight out of a seafood market, it’s a clear sign that something is going wrong. Here are possible reasons
1. Dental Disease
When it comes to bad breath, dental disease is the number one offender. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80% of dogs over the age of three suffer from periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease comes from plaque and tartar buildup that turns into a breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria get cozy on your dog’s teeth and gums, producing bad smells, including a ‘fishy’ smell.
Gingivitis is a common periodontal disease that causes inflammation in the gums. It makes your dog’s mouth look red and irritated and also results in bad breath. Fortunately, you can learn how to treat gingivitis in dogs at home naturally. Try
- Brushing their teeth regularly with dog-friendly toothpaste. (More on this later!)
- Using water additives designed to reduce bacterial buildup.
- Offering dental chews to help break down tartar.
But don’t expect miracles overnight. If your pup’s dental disease is advanced, a professional dental cleaning may be your best bet. A common question we get is, can you use human toothpaste on dogs? No. Human toothpaste often contains xylitol, a sweetener that’s highly toxic to dogs.
2. Anal Glands
Okay, this one’s not for the faint of heart. Dogs have small sacs near their rectum known as anal glands. These glands may be the reason behind the fishy smell. If your dog’s anal glands are full, infected, or leaking, they might lick themselves to relieve discomfort. Sometimes they rub against sheets and leave brown spots. If they end up licking the glands, they transfer the odor to their mouth. Yes, it is kinda gross, but it’s also preventable.
Why does my dog smell like fish when he comes inside? If you discover that anal glands are the reason, a vet can manually express them (cleaning out the glands). It will prevent them from transferring any smell to their breath.
3. Dietary Issues and Gut Health
What goes into your dog’s stomach greatly determines what comes out of their mouth. Poor-quality food or certain ingredients can mess with their digestive system, resulting in unpleasant breath. Something as simple as scavenging for garbage during a walk can bring home an entirely new level of stink.
Will yogurt help my dog’s bad breath? It might, depending on what is causing it! Yogurt, particularly plain and sugar-free options, contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut. A balanced gut means fewer digestive issues that could contribute to bad breath. Although yogurt is a good dietary addition, it’s not a solution if underlying cause is not treated.
4. Kidney Disease
It is a severe health issue that may cause a foul-smell from a dog’s breath. What does kidney failure breath smell like in dogs? It is described as a metallic or ammonia-like scent. Kidneys filter waste products from the bloodstream. When they stop functioning properly, toxins like urea build up in the blood and can manifest as bad breath. The buildup, known as uremia, results in a “fish-like” or “urine-like” smell from their mouth.
If it is a kidney issue, then there will be other symptoms like:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Lethargy or fatigue
- Vomiting or lack of appetite
- Weight loss
- Pale gums or ulcers in the mouth
What to Do:
If you notice these symptoms paired with bad breath, call your vet immediately. They will likely run blood and urine tests to confirm kidney disease and determine its severity. Unfortunately, kidney disease cannot always be cured. However, specialized diet, medications, and ongoing care can slow its progression and improve your dog’s quality of life.
5. Liver Disease
The liver is another key organ responsible for detoxifying the body. When the liver is compromised due to disease or damage, toxins can build up in the bloodstream. What does liver failure smell like in dogs? A musty, almost sweet yet unpleasant fishy odor might point to liver dysfunction.
Liver disease can also result from infections, exposure to toxins, or even genetic predispositions in certain breeds. It might be accompanied by yellowing of the eyes or gums, vomiting, or lethargy.
Other Symptoms to Watch For:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the gums, eyes, or skin)
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Distended abdomen or bloating
- Lethargy and depression
- Increased thirst and urination
What to Do:
If you suspect liver disease, visit your vet as soon as possible. They will do a few tests involving bloodwork, imaging (e.g., ultrasounds), and sometimes even liver biopsies. Treatment may include medications to support liver function, changes to your dog’s diet, and management of any underlying conditions causing the liver damage.
6. Diabetes Mellitus
Yes, diabetes can also lead to bad breath in dogs, although the odor is more frequently compared to acetone or fruit than fish. Nevertheless, in cases where diabetes is poorly managed, bacterial infections in the mouth (secondary to high blood sugar levels) can lead to foul, fishy smells. These infections can trigger an ongoing effect that intensifies the bad breath.
Uncontrolled diabetes also puts your dog at risk of a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which causes the release of ketones. Ketone build-up significantly worsens bad breath and can sometimes mix with other odors, creating unusual and fish-like smells.
Other Symptoms to Watch For:
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Weight loss despite an increased appetite
- Lethargy or weakness
- Vomiting or dehydration
If your dog shows these signs, visit your vet immediately. Diabetes is diagnosed through blood and urine tests and treatment often involves insulin therapy and dietary adjustments. Once the condition is under control, most of the associated symptoms, including bad breath, should improve.
7. Oral Yeast Infection
If your dog’s fishy breath has a sour undertone, it could be linked to yeast overgrowth in their mouth. An oral yeast infection occurs when Candida, a type of fungus, grows unchecked within your dog’s mouth.
Candida is naturally present in small amounts throughout the body, including the mouth. When your dog is healthy, their immune system and other naturally occurring bacteria help keep Candida in check. However, when the immune system is weakened or environmental conditions shift in favor of yeast growth (warmth and moisture), the fungus multiplies rapidly.
The result is a full-blown yeast infection, presenting itself as redness and irritation in the mouth, accompanied by an unpleasant odor. The fishy breath associated with yeast infections comes from volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) released as the yeast breaks down proteins in your dog’s saliva and tissues.
How Do Dogs Get Oral Yeast Infections?
A variety of factors can contribute to the development of a yeast infection in your dog’s mouth. These include:
- Weak Immune System
Dogs with weakened or compromised immune systems are less able to keep yeast in check. Conditions like diabetes, cancer, chronic infections, or even the prolonged use of antibiotics/corticosteroids can disrupt normal immune function. Thus, creating a perfect opportunity for yeast to overgrow. - Poor Oral Hygiene
Plaque and tartar buildup trap bacteria and create an environment that promotes yeast growth. If your dog isn’t getting regular dental cleanings at home or professionally, their risk goes up significantly. - Dietary Imbalance
Diets that are high in sugars or carbohydrates (which can increase glucose levels in saliva) may encourage yeast growth. Dogs who eat scraps, low-quality kibble, or sugary treats are more susceptible. - Excessive Drooling or Moisture
Dog breeds prone to drooling, such as Bulldogs, Mastiffs, or Saint Bernards, are more likely to experience damp conditions in their mouths, which provide the perfect breeding ground for yeast. - Other Underlying Conditions
Dogs suffering from untreated allergies, chronic ear infections, or skin issues often experience yeast overgrowth in multiple areas of the body, including the mouth.
Symptoms to Watch For
How do I know if my dog has a yeast infection? Here are signs to look for in their mouth:
- Red or Swollen Gums: The tissues in the mouth may look inflamed or bleed easily.
- White or Yellow Patches: You may notice plaque-like coatings on gums, the tongue, or palate that don’t rub off easily. These are fungal colonies thriving in your dog’s mouth.
- Excessive Drooling: Increased saliva production can accompany yeast overgrowth.
- Bad Breath: Beyond fishy, the smell may also have a sour or musty quality.
- Licking or Pawing at the Mouth: Discomfort or itchiness might make your dog obsess over their face.
Risk Breeds for Yeast Overgrowth
While any dog can develop a yeast infection, breeds with folds and wrinkles around the mouth, such as Shar-Peis, Boxers, and Bulldogs, are more prone. Additionally, smaller breeds like Poodles and Dachshunds may be at risk if dental care is neglected, as they’re more likely to develop periodontal disease, which can coincide with fungal issues.
Treatment Options for Oral Yeast Infections
- Antifungal Medications
Your vet may prescribe antifungal treatments, commonly oral medications like Fluconazole or topical solutions, to target the overgrowth directly. These treatments work by disrupting the yeast’s ability to thrive and reproduce. - Improve Oral Hygiene
If poor oral hygiene is part of the problem, you’ll need to step up your game. Brush their teeth daily using canine-specific toothpaste, invest in dental rinses, and consider adding water additives that discourage yeast buildup. - Probiotics
Veterinary studies suggest that probiotics may help restore balance to your dog’s microbiome, outnumbering the yeast colonies. Incorporating probiotics through supplements or plain yogurt (free of sugars or artificial sweeteners) could support their gut and oral health. - Adjust Their Diet
Your vet might recommend switching to a low-sugar, low-carbohydrate diet to prevent fueling further fungal growth. Diets that focus on high-protein, low-glycemic ingredients are typically better suited for dogs with recurring yeast problems. - Address Underlying Conditions
Treating the root cause is key. If your dog’s yeast overgrowth is tied to allergies, diabetes, or an immune deficiency, controlling those conditions can prevent additional infections.
Prevention Tips
Stopping oral yeast infections before they start is always better—for your dog’s health and your nose! Here’s how you can help prevent them moving forward:
- Brush your dog’s teeth regularly, ideally daily, to discourage bacterial and fungal buildup.
- Provide high-quality, balanced nutrition with minimal fillers and sugars.
- Limit how much your dog licks or drools by keeping them cool and hydrated.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings with your vet, especially for breeds predisposed to oral health issues.
When to See the Vet
While mild cases might improve with better hygiene and over-the-counter antifungal treatments, you should consult your vet if the symptoms persist beyond a few days. Severe yeast infections require professional care, and your vet can prescribe medications or identify any underlying conditions contributing to the problem.
How Do You Get Rid of Fishy Breath in Dogs?
Once you’ve identified the potential cause of your dog’s bad breath, it’s time to tackle the issue head-on. Here are a few options if the case is not severe and your dog doesn’t show other symptoms.
Brush Their Teeth
Dental hygiene isn’t just for humans. Regular brushing using a vet-approved toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to combat bad breath. Start slow if your dog isn’t used to it; patience and positive reinforcement go a long way. If you cannot brush your dog’s teeth daily, consider dog-safe dental wipes or sprays instead.
Invest in Dental Chews
What is the best dog treat for bad breath? Look for dental treats that rub away tartar while freshening up your pup’s breath. Greenies, Dentastix, and similar products are specifically designed to target plaque buildup, and most dogs find them irresistibly tasty (a win-win!).
Upgrade Their Diet
High-quality dog food like Naturo supports not just your pet’s overall health but also their oral and gastrointestinal wellbeing. Avoid low-grade fillers and overly processed options. If your dog already has a good-quality diet but still has bad breath, probiotics or supplements might help rebalance their gut.
Regular Vet Checkups
Persistent bad breath could indicate a problem that brushing and chewing alone can’t fix. If you’ve done all the home remedies and are still asking yourself what is the best cure for smelly dog breath, it’s time to see your vet. They might need to:
- Clean your dog’s teeth professionally.
- Diagnose and treat fungal or bacterial infections.
- Examine your dog for kidney, liver, or digestive diseases.
Get Your Pup Checked Out
Fishy dog breath might seem like a minor nuisance, but more often than not, it’s a sign that something needs attention. Whether the culprit’s plaque, anal glands or something more serious, getting them to see a vet will improve their breath and overall quality of life. Now that you understand it better, you can handle it better. Good luck!
