Written by Dr. James Bascharon

Dogs can have a variety of scents, but one of the less pleasant odors your furry friend might emit is that fishy smell. While it may not be due to an affinity for sardines, it often stems from secretions from the anal glands.

Anal glands, also known as anal sacs, are small pouches located on either side of your dog's anus. These sacs contain specialized sweat glands that produce a unique-smelling secretion, which serves as a scent marker for dogs. When your dog defecates, these secretions are released onto their feces, conveying vital chemical information to other dogs. This explains the inquisitive behavior your dog displays toward other dogs' poop.

Dogs also "express" their anal sacs when scared, emitting a rather odorous scent. This characteristic aroma is often described as fishy. If your dog consistently smells like fish, it's a strong indicator of potential anal gland issues.

Anal sac issues, collectively referred to as anal sac disease, are prevalent, especially among small and overweight dogs. The following problems may arise:

In addition to the fishy smell, there are other signs of anal sac disease, including scooting on the floor, excessive licking or biting of the anus, difficulty defecating, vocalization during bowel movements, and the presence of a hard lump near the rectum. If you notice these symptoms, consult your veterinarian promptly.

Several conditions can increase the likelihood of anal sac disease, including obesity, food and environmental allergies, hypothyroidism, skin mites, and bacterial or yeast skin infections.

If your dog exhibits a fishy smell, it's crucial to consult your veterinarian. They may recommend the following:

Manually emptying the anal glands is a procedure that can resolve the odor. However, over-expressing the glands can lead to inflammation and scar tissue, so it should only be done when necessary.

For impacted anal sacs, your veterinarian will provide assistance, possibly using softening agents or saline rinses. A higher fiber diet may be recommended to help your dog express their anal sacs naturally.

There are also various anal gland wipes and supplements available to address underlying anal gland issues, such as Glandex.

In cases of infections or abscesses, the affected area is cleaned with an antiseptic and treated with antibiotics. Hot compresses may be recommended, and multiple flushings may be necessary for complete resolution.

In severe cases, surgical removal of the anal sacs may be required, particularly for anal sac disease that doesn't respond to treatment or in the case of anal sac tumors. While there may be potential complications, most procedures are successful and do not adversely affect your dog's quality of life.

Pet wipes, like Glandex Wipes, are specifically designed to assist in cleaning the anal region after anal gland expression as well as to help support healthy anal glands. Glandex Wipes contain DeoPlex® natural enzymatic deodorizers that don’t mask, but eliminate bad odors.

While it's not always possible to prevent anal sac issues, there are measures you can take.

One of the primary causes of anal gland problems in dogs is a lack of fiber in their diet. Fiber plays a crucial role in promoting healthy digestion and can help prevent anal gland issues. Ensure your dog's diet includes high-fiber foods like vegetables, pumpkin, or specialized dog food designed to support digestive health. Consult your veterinarian for dietary recommendations tailored to your dog's specific needs.

Keeping an eye on your dog's stool consistency is vital for preventing anal gland problems. Loose or soft stools are more likely to fail to stimulate the anal glands during bowel movements, leading to blockages and odor issues. If you notice changes in your dog's stool, consult your vet to address potential dietary or health issues promptly.

Proper grooming and regular baths are essential to preventing the buildup of odor and discomfort associated with anal gland problems. A clean and well-groomed dog is less likely to develop issues. Pay special attention to the area around the anal glands during grooming, and consider using dog-specific wipes, such as Glandex Wipes, to maintain cleanliness between baths.

Hydration is key to overall health, including proper digestion. Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times. A well-hydrated dog is less likely to experience constipation, which can lead to anal gland issues. Make it a habit to refill your dog's water bowl regularly, especially during hot weather or after exercise.

Probiotics and digestive supplements can be a valuable addition to your dog's daily routine. These supplements help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, promoting smooth digestion. A healthy digestive system reduces the risk of anal gland problems. Glandex Chews contain both prebiotics and probiotics to promote healthy GI function as well as soluble and insoluble fibers to help firm and bulk stool.