Why does my dog smell like iron? Could it be anal glands?

Dog owners who notice an unusual metallic odor coming from their dogs need to be aware this could signal serious health issues ranging from impacted anal glands to dental disease or kidney failure.

However, you’ll need to investigate why your pup smells like iron, determine how to solve the problem and take steps to prevent it from happening again.

Read this guide to find out what you should do.

Metallic smelling breath

There are several potential causes of metallic-smelling breath in dogs:

Dental problems

“Doggy breath” is usually caused by canine periodontal disease or gingivitis.

Generally, doggy breath is a fishy smell rather than metallic. However, in severe cases with bleeding gums, you might notice a coppery, metallic smell on your dog’s breath.

In either case, you must seek veterinary advice immediately, as your pet could be in pain, and remedial dental work is necessary to prevent serious health complications.

Kidney disease

A common kidney failure symptom is a metallic smell or ammonia odor on a dog’s breath. The iron or metallic smell is caused by a build-up of waste products and toxins that the dog’s kidneys are not removing from his body.

Again, you should seek veterinary advice right away, as kidney failure is fatal if not treated urgently.

Internal bleeding

Blood can have a distinctive smell, often metallic, especially if it’s fresh.

If your dog has a condition that causes him to bleed into his stomach or respiratory tract, you might detect an iron-like aroma in his breath.

Generally, if your dog experiences a metallic smell, your dog will display other symptoms, such as lethargy and depression.

Internal bleeding is severe, and you should take your pet to the vet in an emergency.

Anal glands

By far, the most common reason for a dog to smell like iron is that it has impacted anal glands.

What are the anal glands?

The canine anal glands or anal sacs are small, kidney-shaped scent glands situated on either side of the dog’s anus between the smooth rectal muscle and the external anal sphincter.

The cells that line the anal sacs contain numerous sebaceous (oil) and sweat glands, and it’s those cells that produce a stinky liquid that smells like a mixture of iron and rotten fish!

What’s the purpose of anal sacs?

Dogs scent mark their territory by leaving their unique odor in their urine or poop.

Also, when dogs sniff each others’ backsides, that’s a form of canine communication.

For instance, by sniffing another dog, your pup can tell whether the stranger is a known associate, a friend, or an enemy, even if they will get along.

The anal glands are responsible for generating each dog’s smell, like a canine fingerprint.

A smelly problem

Under normal circumstances, the anal sacs empty naturally whenever your dog poops.

Anal gland issues arise when the anal sacs don’t empty during bowel movements or become impacted, and that’s when you can detect that iron-like whiff whenever your dog is in the room.

Over time, the secretions inside the anal glands thicken, and the metallic smell gets stronger. That foul-smelling fluid is not only unpleasant for you; it’s also highly uncomfortable for your poor dog.

The longer anal gland problems are left untreated, the more painful the condition becomes.

The worst-case scenario is that your dog’s anal sacs could rupture, leaving your unfortunate pet in great pain.

Why do anal glands become impacted?

Several risk factors can predispose dogs to suffer from impacted anal glands, including:

• Obesity
• Diarrhea
• Food allergies
• Atopic dermatitis
• Chronic skin infections involving yeast or bacteria
• Physical abnormalities
• Obstruction of the duct caused by muscle inflammation or tumor
• Infestation by Demodex, Sarcoptes, or other species of skin mites

Senior dogs whose mobility is compromised by arthritis or joint inflammation can also develop impacted anal sacs.

When the dog strains to poop, that action simultaneously expresses the anal sacs. If that doesn’t happen, the anal sacs fail to empty.

The matter trapped inside the anal sacs gradually thickens, causing the glands to swell.

How to prevent anal gland impaction

Unless your dog has a physical abnormality that prevents him from emptying his anal sacs properly when he poops, there are two main ways to prevent the problem from occurring.

Slim down

If your dog weighs too much, you should discuss devising a suitable exercise and feeding program with the staff at your vet clinic.

Obesity presents many risks to dogs, as well as impacted anal glands. A fat dog is more likely to develop diabetes, heart problems, and joint conditions, including arthritis.

Also, heavy, flat-faced, or brachycephalic breeds tend to develop severe breathing problems, especially during hot weather.

Feed your dog a balanced diet

Certain dog breeds, including Goldendoodles, can be prone to food sensitivity and diarrhea that usually accompanies it.

Dogs that regularly suffer from upset tummies and loose stools are much more prone to developing impacted anal sacs than dogs that poop normally.

So, ensure you feed your dog a properly balanced diet that contains plenty of fiber and doesn’t upset his stomach.

It’s a good idea to ask your vet to recommend food specially formulated for dogs with sensitive digestive systems to prevent tummy upsets and the associated problems they cause.

What are breeds most prone to anal gland impaction?

Certain dog breeds are prone to anal gland impaction.

Small breeds such as Poodles and Chihuahuas often suffer from anal gland impaction more than larger breeds. That could be for several reasons, including:

• Smaller dogs that are nervous and high-strung experience changes in the stool’s firmness, and the anal sacs don’t express properly.
• Small breeds can be less active, meaning the hindquarters’ muscles lack strength and power.
• A small dog’s weight distribution differs from a larger animal’s. For example, if a Chihuahua weighs one pound extra, that equates to you gaining an extra 33 pounds. A heavy dog has more difficulty expressing his anal sacs, which then become impacted.
• Small breeds often suffer from congenital limb conformation problems such as luxating patellas. That prevents the dog from squatting properly, impacting the muscle contraction required to express the anal sacs when the dog poops.

Signs of anal gland impaction

So, if you notice that your dog smells like iron, that’s a good indication that all’s not well with his anal glands.

Also, recognizing behavioral changes in dogs due to anal gland issues can involve observing signs such as scooting or dragging their bottom across the floor, excessive licking or biting around the tail area, and signs of discomfort when sitting or defecating.

Scooting, which happens when your dog drags his butt on the floor, is a common sign of anal gland impaction.

Other telltale indicators of anal gland impaction include:

• Excessive licking of the rear end
• Reluctance to sit down
• Chewing the base of the tail
• Blood in the dog’s poop
• Swelling under the skin around the dog’s rectum
• Bloodstains in the dog’s bed or on the ground where he has been resting

If you think your dog has impacted anal glands, take him to see your veterinarian right away.

Potential complications of anal gland problems may include infection, abscesses, and discomfort.

It’s important to promptly address any issues with your pet’s anal glands to prevent these complications.

Recognize signs your dog is uncomfortable

Identifying discomfort caused by your dog’s anal glands can be crucial.

Here are some common warning signs:

Scooting

If your dog drags its rear end across the ground, it could be an indication that their anal glands need to be expressed or that they are experiencing discomfort.

Excessive licking

Dogs may repeatedly lick their anal region in an attempt to relieve irritation or discomfort caused by impacted or infected glands.

Significant odor

A strong, foul odor can be a sign that a dog’s anal glands are full or infected. This scent often becomes more noticeable when the dog is excited or stressed.

Difficulty sitting

If your dog seems uncomfortable when trying to sit down or frequently shifts positions, it might be due to discomfort from the anal glands.

Painful behavior

Watch for signs of pain, such as whining, growling when touched near the rear end, or a general reluctance to be petted in that area.

Unusual posture

Dogs may adopt a “praying” position, with their front end lowered while their back end is elevated, indicating discomfort.

Addressing anal gland issues promptly is essential, as untreated conditions can lead to more severe complications, such as infections or abscesses.

Regular veterinary check-ups play a crucial role in maintaining your dog’s health and preventing issues related to anal glands.

Your veterinarian can perform routine examinations, express the glands if necessary, and advise on proper care.

These check-ups can also help identify other underlying health problems early, ensuring your dog stays happy and healthy for years.

Treat impactions promptly

Untreated anal gland impaction can lead to a host of potential complications that can affect not only your dog’s physical health but also their overall well-being.

Dog owners need to understand potential complications and the importance of addressing anal gland issues promptly.

Infection

If your dog can’t regularly empty its anal glands, they can become infected, leading to inflammation and discomfort. This infection may spread, causing severe pain and swelling.

If left untreated, it can lead to abscesses or even fistulas — abnormal connections between the anal gland and other structures in the body.

Impacted or ruptured glands

Anal gland impaction occurs when the secretions inside the glands become thick and cannot be expressed naturally through defecation.

If this persists, it can cause pressure, making the glands swell and potentially rupture. That causes immense pain and increases your dog’s risk of developing an infection.

Scooting

One of the most common signs of an anal gland issue is when a dog starts dragging their bottom along surfaces such as carpets or grass.

This behavior is known as scooting and is often a sign of discomfort or irritation due to impaction or infection.

Foul odor

An unpleasant smell coming from your dog’s behind could be a sign of an underlying anal gland problem. The secretion from these glands has a distinct musky odor that becomes stronger if it gets impacted or infected.

Behavioral changes

Dogs who are experiencing discomfort due to untreated anal gland impaction may exhibit behavioral changes such as increased agitation, restlessness, and aggression toward other animals or people.

Difficulty defecating

Impacted anal glands can cause difficulty during bowel movements for dogs which may result in straining while trying to defecate or even diarrhea.

Untreated anal gland impaction can have severe consequences for your dog’s health and well-being.

Expressing anal glands

Although some dog groomers offer a manual expression of the glands, ask your vet to do the job instead.

The anal sacs are sensitive, delicate structures, and it’s possible to damage them if you don’t use the correct technique. Improper technique can lead to injury or infection.

The vet gently squeezes each impacted gland to remove the slimy, foul-smelling obstruction.

Externally expressing anal gland secretions involves applying pressure around the glands to help release the fluid inside.

Internal expression involves inserting a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to express the glands manually.

Expressing anal glands relieves your dog’s discomfort and eliminates the nasty, fishy, iron smell.

If the glands are infected, vets prescribe antibiotics.

The simple procedure takes a few minutes, and vets routinely provide this service for their patients.

Regular veterinary check-ups are vital for maintaining good overall health for our canine companions – including their often-overlooked anal glands.

By keeping up with routine exams and addressing any potential issues early on, you can help ensure that your dog’s anal glands stay healthy and function properly.

Don’t ignore the signs of a smelly or uncomfortable dog — make an appointment with your veterinarian if you suspect there may be an issue with their anal glands.

In extreme cases, your vet may recommend surgery for removal of the anal sacs.

Preventing anal gland problems

Home remedies and preventive measures can help keep your dog’s glands healthy.

Increase fiber intake

A diet high in fiber can help regulate your dog’s bowel movements and prevent constipation, which is a common cause of anal gland issues. Add canned pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or green beans to your dog’s meals.

Groom regularly

Keep the area around your dog’s anus clean and trimmed to prevent clogging of the anal glands.

Make sure to gently clean the area during bath time and trim any excess fur that may be covering the anus.

Add probiotics 

Probiotics, beneficial bacteria, help improve digestion and maintain gut health, which in turn can improve anal gland health.

Add probiotic supplements or plain yogurt to your dog’s diet.

Encourage exercise

Lack of exercise can lead to sluggish digestion, which increases the risk of anal gland problems.

Regular physical activity keeps your dog fit and helps maintain good digestive health.

Use a warm compress

If you notice that your dog is experiencing discomfort due to blocked or infected anal glands, apply a warm compress to provide relief and encourage drainage.

Multiple times a day, soak a washcloth in warm water and press it against the affected area for 5-10 minutes.

Include omega-3 fatty acids

Adding omega-3 fatty acids from sources such as fish oil or flaxseed oil to your dog’s diet has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the body, including the anal glands.

Consult your veterinarian 

If you suspect that there may be an issue with your dog’s anal glands, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

They may recommend expressing the glands manually or prescribing a medication to help with inflammation or infection.

Treating impacted anal glands

Addressing dog anal gland problems at home can sometimes help alleviate discomfort and prevent more severe issues.

Here are some home remedies you might consider:

Dietary changes

A high-fiber diet can help in promoting regular bowel movements, which can aid in natural anal gland expression.

You can add pumpkin (cooked or canned, without additives), sweet potatoes, or green beans to your dog’s meals.

You can also look for high-quality dog foods that contain added fiber.

Hydration

Ensure your dog always has access to fresh water.

Proper hydration is essential for healthy bowel movements, which can help keep the anal glands functioning properly.

Regular exercise

Regular walks and playtime can stimulate the bowels, assisting in the natural emptying of the anal glands.

Keeping your dog active can significantly help prevent issues related to anal gland impaction.

Herbal remedies

Some pet owners find relief using certain herbal supplements, such as flaxseed or fish oil, which can promote healthy skin and reduce inflammation.

Always consult your vet before introducing new supplements to ensure they are safe for your pet.

Bathe with care

Regular baths can help keep the area clean and reduce irritation. Using a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo can help soothe the skin around the anal area.

Monitor for irritation

Monitor the area for signs of redness, swelling, or excessive licking. If you notice any persistent issues, consult your veterinarian.

Probiotics

Adding probiotics to your dog’s diet can promote a healthy gut flora, which may help support anal gland health.

Look for probiotic supplements designed specifically for dogs.

Failing to treat impacted glands

Untreated anal gland problems in dogs can lead to a range of serious complications that can significantly affect health and quality of life.

Here are some potential issues:

Infection

When anal glands are impacted, the fluid inside can become stagnant and lead to bacterial infections. An abscess may form, which can result in severe pain and swelling.

If the infection spreads, it can cause systemic issues that affect the entire body.

Ruptured anal glands

If an impacted anal gland is unaddressed, it can become so swollen that it ruptures.

This situation not only causes immense pain for the dog but also leads to open wounds that require surgical intervention to treat.

Chronic pain and discomfort

Persistent anal gland issues can cause ongoing pain and discomfort for dogs. This pain may manifest as changes in behavior, such as reluctance to sit, irritability, or changes in appetite.

Changes in bowel habits

Dogs with anal gland problems may find it difficult to defecate, leading to straining during bowel movements. This can result in constipation or other digestive issues, complicating their overall health.

Systemic illness

Infections from the anal glands can lead to septicemia, a life-threatening condition where bacteria enter the bloodstream. This requires immediate veterinary care and can complicate treatment significantly.

Behavioral changes

Pain and discomfort can lead to stress and anxiety in dogs. They may exhibit signs of distress, which can alter their behavior.

For example, dogs may become more withdrawn or aggressive due to underlying pain.

Increased medical costs

Delaying treatment can lead to more severe health issues, resulting in higher veterinary bills. Addressing minor problems early is often more cost-effective than dealing with complications.

Quality of life

Chronic discomfort and pain can affect a dog’s overall quality of life, making it difficult to engage in everyday activities such as playing and interacting with family members.

Final thoughts on healthy anal glands

If you notice a strange, iron, or metallic smell surrounding your beloved furry friend, the prime culprit is your dog’s anal glands, especially if the odor is accompanied by scooting and licking.

Impacted anal sacs are uncomfortable for your dog and can be potentially very serious if they rupture or become infected.

Thankfully, the condition is easily treated if you catch it straight away and pay a visit to your vet to get the anal glands expressed.

Boost your furry friend’s well-being with our ultimate dog health guide.