If a dog’s penis becomes trapped outside the prepuce, it could become swollen and develop permanent damage. If you’ve noticed that your dog’s penis has been outside of the prepuce for more than a few minutes, or if it appears swollen or painful, speak to a vet straight away.

The penis in dogs usually stays inside a protective sheet of skin called prepuce. When the penis remains on the outside and exposed, this could be due to a problem stopping it from going back in (paraphimosis) or to an abnormal erection (priapism). Both of these conditions often disrupt the blood flow inside the penis, and quickly result in complications and permanent damage. Additionally, there may be a serious underlying cause. It’s best to speak to a vet for further advice as soon as possible.

What is an exposed penis in dogs?

Paraphimosis is when the penis doesn’t go back into the prepuce.

It can be caused by:

• Rings of hair around the penis or the entrance to the prepuce trapping the penis

• Skin of the prepuce becoming inverted and reducing the width of the opening

• The opening of the prepuce being innately too small

• Injury to the exposed penis or to the bone inside the penis

• Disease of the brain or spinal cord

• Tumours

• Infections

• Problems with the muscles controlling the penis

Priapism is when an erection does not subside as normal.

Possible causes are:

• Blood clot inside the penis preventing blood flow

• Chronic brain inflammation after distemper infection

• Exposure to some drugs, such as methamphetamines

• Nerve or spinal problems

• Tumours

• Damage to the penis

Symptoms of an exposed penis in dogs

• Penis often becomes swollen and painful

• Excessive licking

• Restlessness

• Some areas of the penis may become dry

• Some areas of the penis may become dark

• Peeing may become difficult or impossible

Dogs at a higher risk of an exposed penis

These problems can affect any male dog. Priapism happens more commonly in neutered dogs, while paraphimosis is more common in entire (unneutered) dogs.

Diagnosis of exposed penis in dogs

While the exposed penis is visibly obvious, the underlying cause may not be immediately apparent and could indicate a more serious condition requiring veterinary assessment.

• A detailed examination may reveal problems with the prepuce or abnormal contents inside

• Collecting a blood sample from within the penis or a special type of ultrasound scan may be needed to detect a blood clot inside the penis

• An x-ray may show damage to the penile bone

• Nerve problems are investigated with a neurologic exam, and other tests may also be required

Home treatment of an exposed penis in dogs

• If the dog is in pain, or there are dark or purple areas in the penis, it is likely there is a serious problem and you should seek vet help straight away

• If there is no or minimal discomfort, and the penis is pink, check for any injuries or objects around the opening of the prepuce, and speak to a vet if you see anything that looks abnormal

• If everything looks normal, you can try applying sterile lubricant jelly or Vaseline to the penis and preputial opening, and gently try to slide the prepuce over the penis

  • If this hasn’t worked after a couple of tries, speak to a vet

  • If it works, keep your pet in a quiet environment for a few hours and monitor for any signs of swelling, straining or pain. Speak to a vet if you’re unsure about anything

Vet treatment of an exposed penis in dogs

Vet treatment will depend on the underlying cause.

• If due to swelling or foreign material, correcting this and replacing the penis into the prepuce may be all that is necessary

• If there is a problem with the prepuce preventing the penis for going back in, surgery may be needed to correct this

• In severe cases, where the problem cannot be resolved or the penis is severely damaged, amputation may be required

Can an exposed penis be prevented in dogs?

• Trimming the preputial hair of mating dogs may help prevent issues with hair entrapment

• Neutering does not prevent these conditions directly, but reduces sexual behaviour and thus the risk of trauma or injury. This is especially relevant for dogs with excessive sexual behaviours

When to worry about an exposed penis in dogs

Take your dog to see a vet immediately if:

• There are dark or purple areas in the penis

• Your dog is in severe pain

• There is ongoing bleeding

• Your dog seems to be struggling to pass urine

Speak to a vet as soon as possible if:

• The penis has been exposed for more than a few minutes

• You think there might be abnormal swelling

• Your dog is showing signs of discomfort

The Joii vets are always available to give you advice and answer any concerns