Why Does My Dog's Breath Smell Like Fish?

Ever walked into a room only to be greeted by your dog’s less-than-pleasant, fishy breath? You’re not alone. While it might seem bizarre that your dog's mouth smells like last week's forgotten seafood dinner, there's actually a perfectly good explanation — and, thankfully, a solution. 

At A Pup Above, we know that understanding your dog’s funky breath is the first step to fixing it. So, let’s dive into why your pup’s kisses might smell like the ocean and how we can turn that fish market whiff into a breath of fresh air.

Why Does My Dog's Breath Smell Like Fish?

If your pup's breath has taken on an aquatic tinge, it could be due to a couple of not-so-fresh factors. First and foremost, let’s talk about your dog’s oral hygiene, which plays a pivotal role in how their breath smells. 

Just like us, dogs can suffer from the effects of less-than-ideal mouth cleanliness, leading to unwelcome odors. But sometimes, the fishy smell might be coming from an unexpected source — like their own anal glands.

Dogs have two small glands near their anus that secrete a fluid with a distinctively strong and fishy odor. This fluid is used to mark territory and identify each other. 

Normally, you shouldn't smell this secretion, but if your dog is licking or cleaning their rear end more than usual, they might transfer some of that smell right to their mouth. Yes, it’s a bit gross, but it’s also a completely natural part of being a dog!

What Causes Bad Dog Breath?

We've discussed how your pup's anal glands might be the sneaky culprits behind that fishy breath, but what exactly causes bad dog breath in general? 

Believe it or not, there are a few key factors that can be causing canine halitosis:

Food Residue

Even though dogs aren’t known for their pristine table manners, leftover food particles in their mouths can seriously stink up the place. These bits of food can decay, providing a feast for bacteria that produce those foul odors.

Dental Health Issues

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from gum disease or infections in their mouths. These conditions aren’t just painful — they're also a major cause of bad breath, as they allow bacteria to thrive and multiply.

Diet and Digestion

What your dog eats matters a lot when it comes to how their breath smells. High protein diets or foods that are hard for your dog to digest can lead to breath that's less than fresh.

Bacterial Buildup

A dog’s mouth naturally has bacteria, but without proper care, bacteria can get out of hand. An overgrowth of these microbes can lead to a nasty smell, turning sweet doggy smooches into something you'd rather avoid.

When Should I Be Worried About Fishy Dog Breath?

While a bit of bad breath in your dog isn't usually something to stress over, there are times when it can be a clue that something more serious is going on. It's good to know when to shift from just monitoring their breath to actually calling the vet. 

Here are some signs to keep an eye on:

• Persistent bad breath: If nothing seems to tame the fishy smell in your dog's breath, it might be more than just what they ate. This could be a sign to get some expert advice.
• Accompanying symptoms: If your dog is slobbering more than usual, seems to have trouble eating, or is frequently pawing at their mouth, these could be indicators of dental issues or other health problems.
• Change in behavior or appetite: Is your dog not as excited about mealtime as usual? Or maybe they're acting a bit off? Changes like these can often point to discomfort or pain.
• Odd discharge from the mouth: Blood, pus, or an unusual amount of drooling, especially if it’s mixed with blood, definitely warrants a vet visit.

It's always better to be safe and get these things checked out sooner rather than later. A quick visit to the vet can clear up any worries and help keep your dog in top shape.

How Can I Improve My Dog's Breath?

If your dog’s breath isn’t throwing up any major red flags, there are a few simple things you can do to help freshen it up. 

Here’s how to make things smell a little less fishy:

Brush Their Teeth (Yes, Really)

Brushing your dog’s teeth might sound like a hassle, but it’s one of the best ways to keep their breath fresh. A dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste (never use human toothpaste) can help remove food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath. 

If your dog isn’t a fan, start slow — just a few seconds at a time — and work up to longer sessions. Even brushing a few times a week can make a difference.

Give Them Chews and Toys That Do the Work for You

Not every dog will tolerate toothbrushing, and that’s where dental chews and toys come in. Chewing helps reduce buildup in their mouth, and some treats are designed specifically to scrape away gunk while they chew. 

Look for ones made with safe, digestible ingredients that promote oral health. Bonus: it keeps them busy and happy at the same time.

Get Regular Vet Checkups

Even with the best at-home care, your dog still needs regular dental checkups. Vets can spot early signs of gum disease, infections, or other issues before they become a bigger (and more expensive) problem. 

They can also do professional cleanings if needed, which go deeper than anything you can do at home. If your dog’s breath stays bad no matter what you try, a vet visit is the best next step.

What Foods Are Good for a Dog's Gut Microbiome?

Remember when we mentioned that your dog’s diet could be behind their fishy breath? It’s true — gut health plays a big role in how your pup smells. 

When their digestive system is off balance, it can lead to bad breath, weird poop, and other not-so-great side effects. Adding probiotics to their diet helps keep the good bacteria thriving, which supports digestion and keeps odors in check. Fiber is another key player, helping everything move smoothly and preventing buildup that can contribute to stinky breath.

That’s why we pack our sous-vide, human-grade meals with real, gut-friendly ingredients like non-GMO veggies and high-quality proteins. Meals like Turkey Pawella and Chicka Chicka Bow Wow are made with fiber-rich grains and nutrient-packed superfoods to support digestion — because when your dog’s gut is happy, their breath smells a whole lot better. 

Plus, our bone broth-infused recipes make every bite extra tasty, so freshening up their breath never feels like a chore.

Conclusion

So, why does your dog’s breath sometimes smell like fish? It could be anything from their own grooming habits to what’s going on in their gut. 

While a little bad breath isn’t always a big deal, persistent odor can be a sign of dental problems, digestive issues, or even an underlying health concern. Keeping an eye on other symptoms, like changes in appetite or excessive drooling, can help you decide when it’s time for a vet visit.

The good news? Freshening up your pup’s breath is totally doable. Regular dental care, the right diet, and vet checkups all play a role in keeping things smelling normal. And if you’re looking for dog food that supports gut health and overall well-being, we’ve got you covered. 

Our sous-vide, human-grade meals are made with high-quality proteins, non-GMO veggies, and nutrient-packed ingredients to help your pup feel (and smell) their best.

 

Sources:

Anal Glands in Dogs: Everything You Need to Know | American Kennel Club

Periodontal disease | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

How to brush your dog’s teeth | Veterinary Teaching Hospital

Impact of Chewing on Dog Anxiety Levels | The University of Texas at Austin