Do you ever smell something metallic on your dog? Believe it or not, this is actually a common phenomenon. In fact, a few different things could be causing the smell. Sometimes dogs will have a metallic smell because of an infection or other medical problem. Don’t wait too long to consult the vet, as some health conditions can become more serious if left untreated.
Are you still trying to figure out why does my dog have a metallic smell? Your dog most likely smells like iron or metal due to:
- impacted anal glands
- dental problems
- kidney disease
- internal bleeding
- ulcer
Any of these problems may lead to a metallic smell, which other people describe as fishy.
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1. Anal Glands
Anal glands are tiny paired sacs located on the left and right sides of your dog’s or cat’s anus. These cells produce an oily secretion with a distinct fishy, metallic smell. Consider this aroma to be your pet’s unique scent. It lets all the other creatures in the neighborhood know that your pet is in town!
The specific function of the anal glands is to mark territory. This lets other pets know which areas are already claimed. For example, when your pet rubs its backside against any object, some of that secretion gets rubbed off on it. Other animals then sniff the area and recognize that another cat or dog has been there before them.
When the anal glands are impacted, they can cause problems, including causing your dog to have a metallic smell. The signs include:
- licking the rear end excessively
- Hesitate to sit down
- Chewing tail base
- Blood in poop
- Skin swelling around dog’s rectum
- Bloodstains in the dog’s bed
Why do anal glands become impacted?
A variety of risk factors may contribute to impacted anal glands in dogs, including:
- Obesity
- Diarrhea
- Food allergies
- Atopic dermatitis
- Chronic skin infections
- Physical abnormalities
- Muscle inflammation or tumor
- Infestation by Demodex, Sarcoptes, or other species of skin mites
While this is the most frequent in both males and females, your dog’s metallic odor may not always be due to the anal glands. Continue reading to learn why your dog might have a metallic or metal-like odor.
How to Prevent Anal Gland Impaction
If a physical abnormality hampers your dog’s ability to empty his anal sacs when he poops, there are two principal methods for preventing the problem from recurring.
1. Slim down!
If your dog is overweight, you should consult with your veterinarian’s office professionals about establishing an appropriate exercise and nutrition plan for him.
Obesity has several dangers for canines, as well as swollen anal glands. For example, a fat dog is more prone to diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems such as arthritis. Additionally, obese flat-faced or brachycephalic breeds are more likely to suffer from serious breathing issues, especially during the summer months.
2. Feed your dog a balanced diet
Goldendoodles, for example, are susceptible to food allergies and diarrhea, which is often accompanied by it.
Dogs with upset tummies and loose stools are considerably more likely to have impacted anal sacs than dogs who defecate regularly. So, make sure you offer your dog a rich in fiber diet that does not create discomfort in his stomach.
Ask your veterinarian for the name of a food specifically formulated for dogs with delicate digestive systems to avoid stomach upsets and the problems they cause.
2. Dental problems
Doggy breath” is usually caused by Canine Periodontal Disease or gingivitis.
The smell of a dog’s breath is usually pungent rather than metallic. However, in severe cases where the gums are bleeding, you might notice a coppery, metallic odor on your dog’s breath.
You should go to the veterinarian as soon as possible since your pet may be in discomfort and dental treatment is required to avoid serious medical issues.
3. Kidney disease
A dog’s breath may have a metallic smell or an ammonia odor if he has kidney failure. The dog iron smell or metallic smell is caused by a buildup of waste products and poisons in the dog’s body that his kidneys cannot remove.
You should seek expert therapy right away since kidney failure can be fatal if left untreated.
4. Internal bleeding
Blood is often metallic-tasting, especially if it’s still fresh.
If your dog has a metallic smell and is also lethargic, weak, or having trouble breathing, the problem may be internal bleeding. This condition requires immediate veterinary attention since it can cause serious health problems for your pet.
5. Ulcer
Your dog’s stomach might be infected, and this may be the reason for a foul-tasting breath. If your dog’s stomach is infected, it’s referred to as gastritis and can be life-threatening.
If your dog is diagnosed with gastritis, he may be prescribed a medication called omeprazole.
Contact your veterinarian immediately and take your pet with you when you go in order to receive the proper treatment.
Finally, What they Chew On Also Matter
What dogs chew also matter a lot, and you may not notice that in a normal routine.
If your dog is chewing on rubber products such as the ball, he may have a metallic smell for this reason.
Provide your dog chew toy, so they do not search for other chewing material in your home.