A displaced segment of urethral tissue, commonly known as urethral prolapse, is a condition in which a small piece of the inner lining of your dog’s urethra pushes outward. Urethral prolapse is most often seen in male dogs, particularly in smaller breeds, although any dog can be affected.
While it might look concerning, most dogs do very well with early diagnosis and appropriate care.
Symptoms and Types
Watch for the following symptoms, especially if your dog seems uncomfortable while trying to urinate:
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A small, red or pink piece of tissue visible at the tip of the penis
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Excessive licking of the area
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Blood droplets in the urine or on bedding
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Frequent attempts to urinate with little or no result
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Signs of pain, discomfort, or whining during urination
Urethral prolapse can range from mild and occasional to chronic and severe, depending on the underlying cause.
Causes
While the exact cause of urethral prolapse is not always clear, some contributing factors may include:
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Straining during urination or defecation
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Urinary tract infections or irritation
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Genetic predisposition, especially in toy breeds
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Trauma or injury to the genital area
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Hormonal changes
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will begin with a gentle physical exam. Based on their findings, they may recommend additional tests, such as:
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Urinalysis to check for signs of infection or irritation
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Blood work to rule out underlying health issues
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Imaging like ultrasound if deeper tissue involvement is suspected
In most cases, the condition can be diagnosed quickly during a visual examination at the clinic.
Treatment
Treatment options depend on the severity of the prolapse. Common approaches may include:
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Topical ointments or creams to reduce inflammation and swelling
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Antibiotics if an infection is present
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Mild sedatives or anti-anxiety medications if excessive licking worsens the condition
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Surgical correction if the prolapse is persistent or severe
Most dogs respond well to early treatment. In more serious or recurring cases, minor surgery may be needed to correct the issue and prevent further discomfort.
Living with the Condition and Home Management
Recovery management at home may involve the following:
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Providing clean, dry bedding to reduce irritation
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Using soft protective collars (like inflatable rings or cones) to prevent licking
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Offering urinary health supplements such as cranberry extract or veterinary-recommended chews
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Ensuring fresh water is always available to promote regular urination
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Taking your dog out more frequently to avoid straining
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Watching closely for signs of recurrence or discomfort, and scheduling follow-up visits as needed
Prevention
Although urethral prolapse cannot always be prevented, the following measures can help reduce the risk:
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Treat urinary tract infections promptly
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Avoid overbreeding dogs with a known genetic predisposition
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Monitor your dog’s urinary habits regularly
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Maintain a healthy body weight
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Encourage regular exercise and ensure proper hydration
Helpful Products for Dogs with Urethral Prolapse
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Protective collars to limit licking during healing
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Bladder support supplements to promote urinary health
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Soothing wipes for cleaning the sensitive area gently
If you think your dog may be experiencing symptoms of urethral prolapse or any related urinary condition, don’t wait. Contact your veterinarian right away. Early intervention and proper treatment can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort and overall well-being.
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/urinary/c_multi_urethral_prolapse
