Why Does My Dogs Vag Smell Like Fish – Some Common Reasons
Dogs are known for being smelly, but sometimes their smell can be downright fishy. So why does my dog’s vagina smell like fish? Is there something wrong with her? Don’t worry, your dog is probably perfectly healthy – the fishy smell is just a result of her unique physiology.
Dogs have a very different pH balance than humans, and their vaginas are naturally more acidic. This acidic environment helps to keep harmful bacteria at bay and prevents infection. However, it also means that dogs’ vaginas can sometimes smell like fish.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s fishy vaginal odour, try giving her a bath with a mild, dog-specific shampoo. This will help to remove any build-up of bacteria that may be causing the odour. If the fishy smell persists, make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems.
Keep reading to learn more about why dogs smell like fish and what you can do to keep them smelling fresh.
Why Your Female Dog Smells Like Fish – Reasons Explained
There are a few reasons why a female dog may have a fishy smell:
Vaginal Infection
The most common cause of a fishy smell coming from your dog is a vaginal infection. These infections are often caused by bacteria or yeast, and they can be quite smelly. If your dog is licking her vagina more than usual, she may have an infection. Other symptoms of a vaginal infection include discharge, redness, and swelling.
Anal Gland Issues
Another common cause of fishy odour in dogs is anal gland issues. Dogs have two small glands located just inside their anus. These glands produce a yellowish-brown fluid that helps to lubricate the anus and ward off infections.
Bad Breath
Dogs often have bad breath because their mouths are full of bacteria. However, a fishy smell coming from the mouth can also be a sign of yeast overgrowth. Yeast is a type of fungus that can cause infection and odour.
Autoimmune Disease
A fishy smell coming from your dog may be a sign of an autoimmune disease. These diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells and tissues.
There are many different types of autoimmune diseases, and each one can cause a different set of symptoms. If you think your dog may have an autoimmune disease, make an appointment with your veterinarian to get her checked out.
Yeast Overgrowth
Yeast overgrowth can be a cause of fishy odour in dogs. Yeast is a type of fungus that lives in the gut and on the skin. When it overgrows, it can cause infection and an unpleasant smell.
Skin Conditions Like Dandruff
Certain skin conditions like dandruff can also cause a fishy smell. Dandruff is caused by a build-up of dead skin cells on the scalp. It can be a nuisance, but it’s usually not serious. If your dog has dandruff, you may notice that her fur is dry and flaky.
What You Can Do To Help Keep Your Dog Smelling Fresh?
There are several things you can do to help keep your dog smelling fresh:
- Bathe your dog regularly with a mild, dog-specific shampoo.
- Use a pet-friendly odour eliminator to get rid of any unpleasant smells.
- Feed your dog a high-quality diet that is low in sugar and yeast.
- Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercises to help keep her body and skin healthy.
- Talk to your veterinarian about any underlying health problems that may be causing the fishy smell.
- Schedule regular vet check-ups to ensure your dog is healthy and free of infection.
- Consider using a probiotic supplement to help keep yeast levels in check.
- Keep your dog’s living environment clean and free of bacteria.
- Trim her hair around her vagina to help keep the area dry and free of bacteria.
- If the smell is really bad, you may need to give her a bath with an enzymatic cleaner designed to break down protein-based odours.
- Finally, if you’re still concerned about the fishy smell coming from your dog, make an appointment with your veterinarian. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
By following these tips, you can help keep your dog smelling fresh and fish-free.
Conclusion
If your female dog has a fishy smell, it is most likely due to a vaginal infection, anal gland issues, bad breath, or yeast overgrowth.
There are several things you can do to help keep your dog smelling fresh, such as bathing her regularly, using a pet-friendly odor eliminator, and feeding her a high-quality diet. If the smell is really bad, you may need to take her to the vet for a check-up.