Reproductive Disorders of Male Dogs

The short version

Several reproductive diseases can affect male dogs. This section discusses the most common of these disorders.

Inflammation of the Testes and Epididymis

Longterm inflammation of the testis or epididymis may follow short-term inflammation, although in some cases there is no history of testicular inflammation. Tumors may also be present. Many dogs do not have any signs of the disease except for infertility; however, decrease in size or softening of the testes may be present. Non-inflammatory causes of this disease include previous exposure to excessive pressure, heat, cold, or toxic agents. Hormonal causes are also possible. The diagnosis and treatment is as described above for the short-term condition. The outlook with longterm inflammation is poor.

Priapism

Priapism is a persistent erection that is not due to sexual stimulation. It is diagnosed by physical examination. Partial paraphimosis can also result. Priapism can be caused by neurologic dysfunction, drugs, blood vessel abnormalities, masses on the penis, trauma, or an unknown cause. If blood circulation is blocked, it is a medical emergency. Some medications may help, but neutering does not.

Phimosis

Phimosis is the inability to expose the penis and may be due to an abnormally small preputial opening. It may be hereditary or acquired as a result of trauma, inflammation, or bacterial infection. The signs are variable. Usually, the problem is unnoticed until the dog attempts to mate and is unable to copulate. Diagnosis is established by physical examination of the prepuce and penis. Treatment depends on the severity of the phimosis and the intended use of the dog. If the dog is not used for breeding, treatment probably is not needed, although neutering could be considered to prevent arousal. Surgery to enlarge the opening of the prepuce can be performed for breeding dogs or those that have inflammation or difficulty urinating.

Disorders of the Prostate

The prostate gland is located within the pelvis behind the bladder. The prostate gland is not required for sperm production, but it is important for successful breeding. The prostate gland provides the major part of the fluid in the ejaculate and is important in nourishing the sperm cells and increasing their movement.

Diseases of the prostate gland are common in dogs that have not been neutered, especially enlargement of the prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia). Other prostate diseases, including bacterial infection, abscesses, cysts, and tumors, are less common and can be seen in neutered males. These disorders cause enlargement of the prostate gland and can cause straining when defecating, blood in the urine, repeated urinary tract infections, and pain. Additional signs, such as fever, malaise, poor appetite, stiffness, and pain in the belly, are often due to bacterial infections or presence of tumors. Prostatic diseases are diagnosed by physical examination, rectal examination, x-rays, ultrasonography, and blood and semen tests.

Enlargement of the Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)

Enlargement of the prostate is the most common prostatic disorder. It is caused by male hormones. It is found in almost all unneutered dogs over the age of 6 years. There may be no signs, or straining to defecate, blood in the urine, or preputial discharge may occur. Neutering is the preferred treatment. Reduction in the size of the prostate usually follows within a few weeks of the surgery. In dogs used for breeding, medication to decrease the size of the prostate may be helpful.

Frequently asked questions

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