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Why does my dog still have fishy smell after anal gland expression?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Female | spayed | 2 years and 2 months old | 25 lbs

Mia was having a horrid fish smell and brown discharge coming from her rectum so I took her into the vet to get her anal glands expressed. It’s been about a week and she’s still having the same issues. If I take her into the vet again what are they going to do? Like whats would you guys recommend doing as a veterinarian? I hate going to the vet and not knowing what to expect or what’s being preformed. Also, does anyone recommend the brand Glandex chews for anal and digestion?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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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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I guess the best course of action would be to have the glands checked over to make sure they aren’t infected. If it’ s all fine, a permanent solution would be to have them removed. I would discuss all the pros and cons of the surgery with your vet and then decide accordingly. I have performed this surgery several times and it can make a huge different for both dogs and owners because of anal glands continuous issues and discomfort or just odour !
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Hello! I just externally drained my dogs anal glands. How long after will he stop smelling fishy?
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