Urethral Prolapse

Urethral prolapse is a condition affecting male dogs in which the innermost lining of the urethra, known as the urethral mucosa, protrudes outward from the tip of the penis beyond its normal position. This protrusion creates a visible, often reddish or purplish mass of tissue at the end of the penis that bleeds readily when traumatized. The condition occurs almost exclusively in young, intact male dogs and shows a striking breed predisposition, with English Bulldogs and Boston Terriers representing the vast majority of affected animals. While not immediately life-threatening, urethral prolapse causes significant discomfort, persistent bleeding, and potential complications if left untreated, making veterinary evaluation and treatment essential.

The exact cause of urethral prolapse is not completely understood, but the condition appears to result from a combination of factors including sexual excitement, straining, and anatomical predisposition in susceptible breeds. The brachycephalic breeds most commonly affected may have conformational characteristics or tissue composition that predisposes the urethral mucosa to eversion. Episodes of sexual arousal cause engorgement of penile tissues and erection, which may create conditions favorable for mucosal prolapse. Straining during urination, defecation, or coughing may increase abdominal pressure and contribute to tissue protrusion. Once prolapse occurs, the exposed tissue becomes irritated, swollen, and traumatized, perpetuating and worsening the condition.

Urethral prolapse has significant impacts on the affected dog's comfort and wellbeing. The prolapsed tissue is highly vascular and bleeds easily with minimal contact, including from the dog licking the area or brushing against surfaces. This bleeding can be alarming for owners who notice blood droplets around the house or blood staining on bedding. The exposed tissue is sensitive and becomes increasingly inflamed and painful as it remains prolapsed. Chronic prolapse leads to progressive tissue swelling, possible necrosis if blood supply is compromised, and potential urethral stricture if scarring develops. The condition causes distress to the dog and interferes with normal urination and behavior.

The prognosis for dogs with urethral prolapse is generally excellent with appropriate surgical treatment. Surgical correction, typically involving resection of the prolapsed tissue and suturing of the remaining healthy urethral mucosa to the penile tip, is curative in most cases. Without treatment, the condition will not resolve spontaneously and will likely worsen progressively. Neutering is typically recommended as part of treatment to reduce sexual excitement that may contribute to the condition and its potential recurrence. With prompt surgical intervention and neutering, most dogs make complete recoveries and do not experience recurrence, returning to normal urinary function and comfortable daily life.

The primary cause of urethral prolapse appears to be multifactorial, involving sexual excitement combined with anatomical or tissue predisposition. Sexual arousal in intact male dogs causes engorgement of the penis and surrounding tissues, including the highly vascular urethral mucosa. During erection, the tip of the penis becomes exposed from the prepuce, and increased blood flow and tissue turgor may create conditions where the urethral mucosa can evert through the urethral opening. The association between urethral prolapse and intact male status, along with the typical young age of affected dogs when testosterone levels are high and sexual behavior emerging, supports hormonal and reproductive factors in the condition's development.

Genetic and hereditary factors clearly play a role in urethral prolapse, as evidenced by the marked breed predisposition observed. English Bulldogs represent the most commonly affected breed by a significant margin, followed closely by Boston Terriers. Other brachycephalic breeds including French Bulldogs and Pugs are occasionally affected. The strong breed association suggests an inherited anatomical or tissue composition factor that predisposes the urethral mucosa to prolapse. Whether this involves the connective tissue supporting the urethral mucosa, the vascular architecture of the tissue, or anatomical proportions of the distal urethra and penis is not entirely clear. The condition does appear to cluster in breed lines, supporting a heritable component.

Environmental and lifestyle factors may trigger or exacerbate urethral prolapse in predisposed individuals. Exposure to female dogs in estrus may stimulate sexual excitement and erections that contribute to prolapse. Excessive masturbation or mounting behavior may create repeated mechanical stress on the distal urethra. Straining from urinary obstruction, constipation, or respiratory difficulty may increase abdominal pressure and contribute to tissue protrusion. The respiratory compromise common in brachycephalic breeds may lead to chronic straining during breathing that affects pelvic pressures. Poor overall health or nutritional status might affect tissue integrity, though this is speculative.

Several risk factors have been identified that increase the likelihood of urethral prolapse development. Being an intact male dog is essentially a prerequisite, as the condition is extremely rare in neutered males. Young age, typically under two years, represents the peak risk period, corresponding to sexual maturity and high testosterone levels. Brachycephalic breed status, particularly English Bulldog or Boston Terrier, dramatically increases risk compared to other breeds. Previous episodes of prolapse increase risk of recurrence if the dog remains intact. Conditions causing straining, including urinary tract disease, gastrointestinal issues, or respiratory disease, may contribute to risk in predisposed individuals.

The mechanism by which urethral prolapse develops involves eversion of the urethral mucosa through the external urethral orifice at the tip of the penis. The urethral mucosa is highly vascular tissue that lines the inside of the urethra. In predisposed individuals, factors including engorgement during erection, increased abdominal pressure from straining, and possible weakness of the supporting connective tissues allow this mucosal layer to slide outward and protrude from the urethral opening. Once prolapsed, the tissue becomes exposed to air, mechanical trauma from licking and contact, and further vascular congestion due to restricted venous drainage. This creates a cycle of worsening swelling, inflammation, and trauma. The prolapsed tissue bleeds readily due to its rich blood supply and fragile, exposed surface.

Early warning signs of urethral prolapse may be subtle and easily missed initially. Owners may notice their dog paying increased attention to the genital area with frequent licking. Small amounts of blood may appear at the tip of the penis or on surfaces where the dog rests. The dog may seem uncomfortable when urinating or show mild straining. Some dogs display restlessness or difficulty settling, possibly due to penile discomfort. During erections, owners who observe the exposed penis may notice slight eversion or redness at the urethral opening before obvious prolapse develops. These early signs may fluctuate, with the tissue reducing spontaneously at first before becoming persistently prolapsed.

The most characteristic symptom of urethral prolapse is visible protrusion of reddish or purplish tissue from the tip of the penis. This tissue mass appears at the external urethral opening and may range from a small ring of everted mucosa to a larger, mushroom-shaped protrusion. The tissue typically has a congested, swollen appearance due to impaired venous drainage of the prolapsed portion. Bleeding is a hallmark sign, with fresh blood appearing at the tip of the penis and blood droplets found where the dog has been sitting or lying. The bleeding may be intermittent but increases when the tissue is traumatized by licking, contact, or erection. Bloody discharge or blood-tinged urine may be observed during urination.

Behavioral changes in dogs with urethral prolapse reflect the discomfort and irritation caused by the condition. Affected dogs typically lick the genital area excessively, which unfortunately worsens tissue trauma and bleeding. Restlessness and inability to get comfortable may be apparent. Some dogs become withdrawn or seem depressed due to chronic discomfort. Changes in urination behavior may occur, with dogs showing reluctance to urinate, altered stream, or straining. Decreased appetite and activity levels may develop as the condition persists. Some dogs become protective of the affected area and may resist examination or handling around the hindquarters.

Physical signs of urethral prolapse are typically dramatic and easily recognized upon examination. The prolapsed tissue appears as a rounded, doughnut-shaped or mushroom-shaped protrusion of red to purple tissue extending from the urethral opening at the tip of the penis. The tissue is soft, moist, and bleeds readily when touched. Swelling of the prolapsed tissue increases over time as venous congestion worsens. The surrounding penis tip may also appear congested and swollen. In severe cases, the prolapsed tissue may become dry, dark, or develop areas of necrosis if blood supply is significantly compromised. Dried blood or fresh bleeding is typically visible on the tissue and surrounding areas.

Symptom progression in urethral prolapse follows a pattern of worsening without treatment. Initial small prolapses may temporarily reduce but become persistent and larger over time. The prolapsed tissue becomes increasingly swollen, congested, and traumatized with continued exposure and licking. Bleeding episodes become more frequent and may be more substantial. The tissue may develop ulceration or necrosis in advanced cases. Secondary infection of the exposed tissue can occur. Scarring from chronic inflammation may begin to affect the urethral opening, potentially causing urination difficulties. The overall discomfort and systemic effects on the dog increase as the condition progresses untreated.

While urethral prolapse is not typically an immediate emergency, certain presentations warrant urgent veterinary attention. Severe swelling with dark discoloration of the prolapsed tissue suggests compromised blood supply and potential necrosis requiring rapid intervention. Significant ongoing bleeding that does not stop or results in blood loss symptoms including weakness or pale gums requires urgent evaluation. Complete inability to urinate despite apparent attempts indicates the prolapse may be obstructing urine flow. Signs of systemic illness including fever, lethargy, or appetite loss in conjunction with prolapse suggest possible infection or other complications. Any case of urethral prolapse should be evaluated relatively promptly, though obviously compromised tissue or urinary obstruction warrants emergency care.

Diagnosis of urethral prolapse is typically straightforward based on visual examination of the affected tissue. During the veterinary visit, the veterinarian will obtain a history including the duration of signs, any triggering events, and the dog's intact status and breed. Physical examination includes careful inspection of the prolapsed tissue, assessment of tissue color and viability, evaluation for concurrent penile or preputial abnormalities, and palpation of the abdomen to assess the bladder and rule out urinary obstruction. The characteristic appearance of congested, bleeding tissue protruding from the urethral opening at the tip of the penis in a young, intact male dog of a predisposed breed is highly suggestive of the diagnosis.

Laboratory testing and imaging studies are generally not required for diagnosis but may be performed to assess overall health and rule out concurrent conditions. Urinalysis may be obtained to evaluate for urinary tract infection that could contribute to straining and tissue irritation. Complete blood count and chemistry panel provide baseline health assessment before anesthesia and surgery. If there is concern about urinary obstruction, imaging studies may be considered. Blood clotting tests may be evaluated if bleeding has been significant or prolonged. These tests are primarily for pre-surgical preparation rather than diagnostic purposes.

Differential diagnosis for urethral prolapse includes other conditions causing masses or abnormal tissue at the tip of the penis. Transmissible venereal tumor, a sexually transmitted cancer, can produce masses on the penis but typically affects older dogs and has a different tissue appearance. Penile neoplasia of other types may present similarly but usually occurs in older dogs. Paraphimosis, where the penis cannot retract into the prepuce, may be confused with urethral prolapse but involves the entire glans rather than tissue protruding from the urethral opening specifically. Urethral tumors may occasionally present at the urethral orifice. Prolapse of other penile structures is rare but possible. The signalment of young, intact, brachycephalic male and the characteristic tissue appearance usually make the diagnosis clear.

Confirmation of urethral prolapse diagnosis is clinical, based on the characteristic presentation and physical examination findings. The prolapsed tissue can be gently probed to confirm it arises from within the urethra and represents everted urethral mucosa. The tissue is typically circumferential around the urethral opening. In cases where diagnosis is uncertain, the tissue can be examined more thoroughly under sedation or anesthesia. Histopathological examination of excised tissue after surgery can confirm the diagnosis and rule out underlying neoplasia, though urethral mucosal prolapse has a characteristic microscopic appearance. Most cases are diagnosed definitively on clinical examination without need for additional testing.

Initial treatment for urethral prolapse focuses on protecting the exposed tissue and controlling bleeding until definitive surgical correction can be performed. Cleaning the prolapsed tissue gently with saline and applying lubricating gel helps prevent desiccation and further trauma. An Elizabethan collar is essential to prevent self-trauma from licking, which significantly worsens tissue damage. In some cases, the tissue may be gently replaced and held in place temporarily with a purse-string suture, though recurrence is likely without definitive treatment. Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications may provide comfort. These conservative measures are temporizing rather than curative and should be followed promptly by surgical correction.

Surgical correction is the definitive treatment for urethral prolapse and is typically curative. The surgical procedure, performed under general anesthesia, involves resection of the prolapsed urethral mucosa followed by suturing of the remaining healthy urethral tissue to the penile tip. The surgeon carefully excises the devitalized, prolapsed tissue while preserving adequate healthy mucosa for anastomosis. Fine sutures are placed to appose the cut edge of the urethral mucosa to the penile epithelium, creating a smooth junction that heals without stricture formation. Care is taken to maintain adequate urethral diameter to prevent post-operative narrowing. The surgery is typically performed by general practitioners comfortable with soft tissue surgery or may be referred to a specialist for complex cases.

Castration, or neutering, is strongly recommended as part of the treatment protocol for urethral prolapse. Removing the source of testosterone eliminates sexual excitement and the associated penile engorgement that contributes to prolapse development. Dogs that remain intact after prolapse repair have significantly higher recurrence rates than those that are neutered. Castration can be performed at the same anesthetic episode as the prolapse repair, minimizing the need for additional procedures. While some owners may wish to preserve breeding potential, the high recurrence risk in intact dogs and the likely hereditary component of the condition make neutering the preferred approach. Dogs neutered at the time of repair have excellent prognosis for permanent resolution.

Post-operative care is crucial for successful healing and preventing complications. An Elizabethan collar must remain in place continuously until healing is complete, typically ten to fourteen days, to prevent self-trauma to the surgical site. Activity restriction limits mechanical stress on the healing tissue. Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications keep the dog comfortable and reduce swelling. Owners should monitor the surgical site daily for signs of swelling, discharge, bleeding, or suture disruption. Cold compresses may reduce swelling in the first day or two post-operatively. The dog should be monitored during urination to ensure adequate urine flow without obstruction or significant bleeding.

Alternative treatment approaches exist but are generally less successful than surgical resection. Repeated temporary reduction of the prolapse without surgery will result in recurrence in most cases. Chemical cauterization of the prolapsed tissue has been attempted but carries risk of stricture formation and is not preferred. Cryotherapy has been described but is not widely used. Medical management alone, without addressing the prolapse surgically, does not resolve the condition and allows progressive tissue damage. For dogs with concurrent conditions or anesthetic concerns that preclude immediate surgery, conservative management can temporize while the patient is stabilized, but surgical correction remains the goal.

Treatment decisions consider multiple factors discussed between the veterinary team and owner. The overall health of the patient affects anesthetic risk and timing of surgery. Owner financial considerations may influence decisions, though surgical correction is typically cost-effective given the curative potential. The owner's wishes regarding breeding potential must be considered, though the recommendation remains strongly in favor of neutering. Expected outcomes with surgical correction and neutering are excellent, with cure rates exceeding ninety percent. Owners should understand that without treatment, the condition will worsen and complications may develop, making early intervention preferable.

Recovery from urethral prolapse surgery proceeds through predictable phases over approximately two weeks. In the first few days post-operatively, some swelling and minor bleeding at the surgical site are normal and expected. Discomfort is managed with prescribed pain medications, and the Elizabethan collar prevents self-trauma that would disrupt healing. By the end of the first week, swelling should be substantially reduced and the suture line healing visibly. Most dogs are urinating normally within the first day or two after surgery, though some blood-tinged urine is normal initially. By two weeks post-operatively, sutures have either dissolved or can be removed, and healing is typically complete. Full recovery to normal activity usually occurs within three weeks.

Post-treatment care requirements focus on protecting the surgical site and monitoring for complications. The Elizabethan collar must remain in place at all times for the full healing period, as even brief access to the surgical site can result in significant self-trauma and surgical failure. Activity should be restricted to leash walks only, with no running, jumping, or rough play that could traumatize the healing tissue. Medications including pain management, anti-inflammatories, and possibly antibiotics should be administered as prescribed. The surgical site should be observed daily for concerning changes including excessive swelling, discharge, opening of the incision, or difficulty urinating. Follow-up veterinary examination is typically scheduled at one to two weeks post-operatively.

Prognosis for dogs undergoing surgical correction of urethral prolapse is excellent, particularly when combined with castration. Success rates with surgical resection and concurrent neutering exceed ninety percent, with most dogs experiencing complete, permanent resolution. Dogs that remain intact have significantly higher recurrence rates, estimated at thirty to fifty percent. Quality of life returns fully to normal after recovery, with no long-term effects on urination or comfort. The surgery does not affect fertility if performed without castration, though neutering is strongly recommended. Complications are uncommon but can include stricture formation if excessive tissue is removed, hemorrhage, infection, or suture line breakdown.

Long-term outlook for dogs after successful urethral prolapse treatment is excellent with appropriate management. Neutered dogs rarely experience recurrence and can be considered cured. Dogs that remain intact must be monitored for recurrence, particularly in situations that promote sexual excitement. Normal urinary function is preserved in the vast majority of cases, with occasional mild changes in urine stream direction that do not cause functional problems. No special long-term care is required once healing is complete and the dog is neutered. Dogs can return to all normal activities without restriction. The condition has no effect on overall lifespan or long-term health once successfully treated.

Primary prevention of urethral prolapse centers on neutering male dogs of predisposed breeds before the condition develops. Castration eliminates the hormonal influences and sexual excitement that contribute to prolapse, essentially preventing the condition. For owners of male English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and other brachycephalic breeds who do not intend to breed their dogs, early neutering provides protection against this condition among its other benefits. The procedure can be performed as early as six months of age, before the peak risk period for urethral prolapse development. This preventive approach is the most reliable way to avoid the condition entirely.

Breeding considerations are important for those involved in reproducing predisposed breeds. Dogs that have experienced urethral prolapse should not be used for breeding, as the condition likely has a hereditary component and breeding affected individuals perpetuates the trait in the breed population. Breeders should track occurrence of urethral prolapse in their lines and avoid repeated breeding combinations that have produced affected offspring. Selection for breeding stock should consider family history of urological problems. Responsible breeders work to reduce the incidence of health problems in their breeds, including urethral prolapse. Prospective puppy buyers can ask breeders about history of the condition in their breeding dogs and lines.

For intact male dogs of predisposed breeds being maintained for breeding purposes, management strategies may help reduce risk. Limiting exposure to female dogs in estrus reduces sexual excitement and associated penile engorgement. Discouraging mounting and masturbation behaviors when possible may reduce mechanical stress on the distal urethra. Maintaining overall health through appropriate nutrition and veterinary care supports tissue integrity. Prompt treatment of any conditions causing straining, including respiratory, urinary, or gastrointestinal issues, reduces abdominal pressure that may contribute to prolapse. However, these management strategies cannot guarantee prevention in predisposed individuals.

Regular veterinary care supports early detection if prolapse begins to develop. Annual or semi-annual wellness examinations provide opportunity to discuss any genital concerns with the veterinarian. Owners of predisposed breeds should be educated about the signs of urethral prolapse so they can seek prompt evaluation if symptoms develop. Any bleeding from the penis or visible tissue abnormality should prompt veterinary consultation. Early intervention when prolapse first occurs, before significant tissue trauma and swelling develop, may improve surgical outcomes and recovery.

Early intervention when signs first appear provides the best opportunity for uncomplicated treatment and recovery. Owners who notice bleeding from the penis, excessive genital licking, or visible tissue at the tip of the penis should seek veterinary evaluation promptly rather than waiting to see if the problem resolves. Fresh, minimally traumatized prolapsed tissue is easier to treat surgically than tissue that has been prolapsed for extended periods with significant swelling, trauma, and possible necrosis. Prompt treatment also prevents the progressive discomfort and bleeding that affect the dog's quality of life while the condition persists untreated.

Daily management during the recovery period from urethral prolapse surgery requires consistent attention to protecting the surgical site. The Elizabethan collar must be worn continuously, including during sleep and eating, as dogs can quickly damage the healing tissue if given even brief access. Owners should monitor that the collar remains properly positioned and comfortable. Short leash walks provide opportunity for elimination without excessive activity. The surgical site should be observed at least twice daily for any concerning changes. Medications should be administered on schedule as prescribed. Keeping the dog calm and preventing excitement or rough play protects the healing tissue. Clean, dry bedding should be provided and changed if it becomes soiled.

Home environment considerations during recovery focus on facilitating rest and preventing injury. A quiet, confined space away from other pets and household activity reduces stimulation and activity levels. Non-slip flooring helps prevent falls or awkward movements that could strain the surgical site. The water bowl may need modification to accommodate the Elizabethan collar, ensuring the dog can drink adequately. Food bowls should similarly be accessible with the collar in place. Outdoor elimination trips should be supervised and brief. Stairs and furniture jumping should be prevented during the recovery period. A consistent routine helps keep the dog calm and reduces stress.

Maintaining quality of life during recovery requires balancing restrictions with comfort and engagement. Despite activity restrictions, gentle interaction, petting, and calm companionship maintain the dog's emotional wellbeing. Mental stimulation through treat-dispensing toys, training exercises that do not require physical activity, and gentle play can help pass the time during confinement. Comfortable bedding and a calm environment support rest. Ensuring the Elizabethan collar fits properly prevents both access to the surgical site and excessive discomfort from the collar itself. Recovery is temporary, and dogs return to completely normal activity and lifestyle once healing is complete.

Ongoing monitoring after full recovery primarily involves watching for any signs of recurrence in dogs that were not neutered. Owners should know the signs of prolapse and seek prompt veterinary evaluation if tissue is noted at the tip of the penis or bleeding occurs. Neutered dogs require no special ongoing monitoring related to the previous prolapse. General urinary health should be monitored through observation of normal urination patterns. Annual veterinary examinations provide opportunity to discuss any concerns. Dogs that experienced urethral prolapse have no special long-term requirements once healed and neutered, and can be cared for as any healthy dog would be.

Support for owners managing dogs with urethral prolapse includes veterinary guidance and practical resources for recovery management. The veterinary team provides post-operative instructions and is available for questions or concerns during the recovery period. Online resources and breed-specific communities may provide additional information and support from owners who have experienced the condition with their dogs. Pet supply stores carry Elizabethan collars and other recovery aids. Financial planning for the surgery and follow-up care helps ensure dogs receive needed treatment. Understanding that urethral prolapse is a treatable condition with excellent prognosis helps owners approach the situation with appropriate perspective and optimism.

English Bulldogs represent the breed most dramatically affected by urethral prolapse, accounting for the majority of reported cases in veterinary literature. The predisposition in this breed is so strong that urethral prolapse is considered a breed-associated condition for English Bulldogs. Boston Terriers are the second most commonly affected breed, also showing marked predisposition compared to the general dog population. Other brachycephalic breeds including French Bulldogs and Pugs are occasionally reported with urethral prolapse, though less frequently than English Bulldogs and Boston Terriers. The common thread among these breeds is their brachycephalic conformation, suggesting that anatomical factors related to this body type may contribute to urethral prolapse susceptibility.

Beyond the brachycephalic breeds with highest risk, urethral prolapse occurs sporadically in other breeds and mixed breed dogs. When the condition occurs in non-brachycephalic breeds, it typically still affects young, intact males, maintaining the age and sex predisposition seen in high-risk breeds. Mixed breed dogs with brachycephalic ancestry may carry increased risk. The condition is extremely rare in neutered males of any breed and essentially does not occur in female dogs. Non-brachycephalic purebred dogs occasionally develop the condition, suggesting that while brachycephalic conformation is a major risk factor, it is not absolutely required for prolapse to occur.

Breed-specific awareness and recommendations focus on prevention through neutering in predisposed breeds. Owners of male English Bulldogs and Boston Terriers should be informed about urethral prolapse risk when their puppies are young, allowing informed decisions about neutering. Breeders should educate puppy buyers about the condition and the protective effect of neutering. Dogs intended for breeding should be monitored for early signs of prolapse, with the understanding that affected dogs should be removed from breeding programs. Breed clubs and breed-specific health organizations can play a role in educating fanciers and promoting practices that reduce the incidence of urethral prolapse in affected breeds.

Urethral prolapse may occur in conjunction with other conditions that share similar underlying factors or presentations. Other brachycephalic-associated conditions commonly coexist in affected dogs, including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, which causes respiratory straining that may contribute to abdominal pressure increases. Skin fold dermatitis and other conformational issues are common in the same breeds affected by urethral prolapse. Urinary tract infections may develop secondary to the urethral abnormality or tissue trauma. Paraphimosis, where the penis cannot retract into the prepuce, may occur concurrently or be confused with urethral prolapse. Prostatic conditions in intact male dogs may coexist though are less common in the young dogs typically affected by prolapse.

Several conditions produce similar symptoms or appearances to urethral prolapse and must be differentiated. Transmissible venereal tumor, a sexually transmitted cancer, can produce masses on the penis but typically affects older dogs and has a different appearance on examination. Other penile tumors may present at the urethral opening but again typically affect older dogs and have different tissue characteristics. Paraphimosis involves the glans penis rather than tissue protruding from within the urethra and is distinguished by examination. Urethral tumors may occasionally protrude from the urethral opening but are rare in young dogs. Granulation tissue or scarring from previous trauma might be confused with prolapse on initial examination. Careful physical examination differentiates these conditions.

Potential complications of urethral prolapse include tissue necrosis if blood supply is compromised, which may require more extensive surgical resection. Urethral stricture can develop from chronic inflammation or as a surgical complication if too much tissue is removed or healing is abnormal. Secondary urinary tract infection may develop from bacteria colonizing the abnormal exposed tissue. Hemorrhage, while usually self-limiting, can occasionally be significant if major vessels are involved. Recurrence occurs in a significant percentage of dogs not neutered at the time of correction. Chronic penile and preputial dermatitis may develop from urine scalding or ongoing inflammation. Early, definitive treatment minimizes the risk of these complications.