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My dog's anal glands were expressed. When will the fishy smell stop?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 22 days old | 18 lbs

Hello! I just externally drained my dogs anal glands. How long after will he stop smelling fishy?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2017

Hi there and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Anal gland excretions do smell a bit fishy- that is normal. It can take a few hours for the smell to eventually dissipate, however, it you take a little mild baby shampoo or mild soap on a moist towel and rub his behind gently with it after expressions, this can greatly reduce the smell immediately afterwards. I hope this helps and thanks again for posting!

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 1st, 2018

    The fishy odor is probably coming from her anal sacs. They are fluid filled sacs on either side of her anal opening. They are like scent glands in a skunk. The fluid smells awful. Dogs can get infections in the anal sacs and they can express the smelly fluid when they are scared. I recommend having them emptied by your veterinarian to check for infection and prevent the buildup of fluid. This is most common in smaller breeds of dogs. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Daisy.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on September 8th, 2017

    Anal glands are normally expressed during the act of defecation. If you continue to smell the odor, see her licking her hind end or dragging her hind end along the floor, then she should be examined by your veterinarian for possible impacted anal glands.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 21st, 2021

    I would take Mia in to get it checked out as I cannot rule out an anal gland infection without seeing her in person. They will check her out and her rectum to see if there is a more serious problem. And yes, I do recommend Glandex, I have seen success with it. I hope this helps.

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