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My spayed female dog smells fishy. What could be the problem?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 3 years and 1 month old | 99 lbs

My female dog is spayed but sometimes her private parts smell like fish why is it so ??

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on May 21st, 2018

If the smell comes and goes, then it is most likely from the anal glands. Dogs have scent glands on either side of the anus that release a stinky liquid that commonly smells fishy. If she is scooting or licking excessively, then I would have your veterinarian check her anal glands to make sure that they are not overly full. However if the smell is coming from her urine, then I would be worried that she has a urinary tract infection and would recommend having your veterinarian examine a urine sample. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 2nd, 2018

    The smell is likely coming from the anal glands even though you don't seem to think it is coming from her anal region. The anal gland fluid has that fishy/skunky odor. The other option is that she has a bladder infection (UTI) and if left untreated can turn into a very serious issue. The final possibility is that her diet or any supplements she is taking is causing the odor. Regardless, she needs a vet exam to get this figured out. I don't think it's an emergency but try to take her in soon.

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