Why Your Dog Smells Like Metal

As a dog owner, it can be quite concerning if your furry companion suddenly develops a strange body odor and the whole house starts to smell like dog. One type of smell that dog owners seem to come across on certain occasions is the smell of metal. Here are the most common reasons for the development of this odor.

Issues with the Anal Gland

In most cases, the smell of metal is most likely coming from the dog’s anal glands. Dogs have glands inside their rectum that secrete a substance with a very distinct smell. This odor acts as a scent marker for your dog. In most cases, the anal gland secretion will happen naturally whenever your dog defecates. There are circumstances, however, that may prevent the anal glands from getting properly expressed. This will eventually lead to the development of the strange metal smell from your dog’s body.

If you know that the anal glands are the issue then you could try helping your dog express the anal glands or you could go to the vet for further consultation (especially if this is the first time you are dealing with this situation).

Dog Affected by an Infection

This is less likely to be a cause for dogs that suddenly develop a metallic smell but the onset of an infection may also cause a strange odor to develop from your dog’s body. For example, ear infections are known to create a strange odor but the smell is often described as yeasty. In any case, if you notice your dog is not his usual self then a trip to the vet could be worthwhile. Pay special attention to your dog’s movement and the state of his poop.

Dog’s Breath Smells like Metal

If you are certain that the metallic smell is coming from the dog’s breath and not his anal glands then it may be worth checking what your dog has been chewing or gnawing on recently. Make sure whatever the dog has been chewing on hasn’t affected his dental health. There shouldn’t be any lacerations or inflammation around the gum.

In addition to dental problems, bad breath may also be a result of internal body problems that you won’t be able to identify. It could, for example, be a result of kidney problems or issues with the dog’s gastrointestinal tract. Again, we strongly recommend checking with the vet if your dog has suddenly developed a metallic breath and there is something off about his recent behaviors.