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Aparato reproductor

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Enlargement of the prostate, very common in entire (uncastrated) male dogs of middle to older age. It is benign but troublesome.

Moderate🐕 Dogs

Symptoms to watch for

  • Difficulty or straining to defecate (flattened stools)
  • Sometimes difficulty urinating
  • Drops of blood from the penis unrelated to urination
  • Discomfort, stiff gait
  • Many cases are mild

Causes

Influence of male hormones: with age, the prostate of an entire dog enlarges. It is a benign and very common process.

Diagnosis

Physical examination (rectal examination), ultrasound. The vet rules out other prostatic diseases (infection, tumour).

Treatment

Castration is the most effective treatment: the prostate shrinks within a few weeks. Medical treatments are also available.

Prevention

Castration prevents this condition. Prostate check-ups in older entire males.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if your entire male dog has difficulty defecating or drips blood from the penis. It is worth confirming that it is benign hyperplasia and not something else.

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.