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Why does my dog's rear smell fishy? Is it anal glands or infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cane Corso | Male | 3 years and 1 month old | 175 lbs

Hi, my dog seems to have a fishy smell coming from his rectum. When I let him out today, it seemed to look a little irritated. Is there a topical cream I can use for him or do i need to call the vet. I havent noticed him licking at all.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on October 17th, 2018

You are probably smelling his anal sacs. They are like scent glands in a skunk. They are on eithe side of the anus and the fluid smells awful, like rotten fish. If you’re smelling this then you should bring him in to have the fluid expressed. Sometime dogs get infection in the anal sacs which can be very painful and hard to heal. Most dogs empty the fluid when they defecate or express it when scared, again like a skunk. If the opening gets clogged the fluid can build up causing itching and sometimes infection. They will do a rectal palpation to empty the fluid and that will show whether there is infection present. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Rocky.

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    Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 11th, 2018

    Ah! Welcome to the lovely scent of anal glands! He may have expressed them naturally during a bowel movement or if he was suddenly frightened. If he is licking or scooting, take him into the vet to have them expressed as this could be a sign that they are full. In the mean time, clean with a soapy wet wash cloth and feel free to spritz your favorite body spray or air freshener on the area. Best wishes to you and Gus!

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on February 7th, 2017

    I suspect that you may be smelling anal gland secretions - this odor is very strong, and smells a bit like fish. Many dogs will secrete this material from their anal glands when they are nervous or frightened, and occasionally you might smell it after they go to the bathroom. It isn't dangerous at all, since it's normal for dogs to do this, but it can be very smelly for humans! The best thing to do is wash his rear end with soap and water to remove the smell, or clean him off with baby wipes. If this is happening frequently for no apparent reason, it would be a good idea to have his anal glands checked by a vet to see if there is some reason that they are not emptying normally when he goes to the bathroom.

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