Overview of Genital Licking in DogsDogs keep relatively clean. In addition to cleaning their legs and body, both male and female dogs will also lick their genital areas in an attempt to remove dirt, discharge or debris. Excessive licking in this area may indicate a medical problem and can be a cause for concern. Show Causes of Licking Genitals in Male DogsIn males, abnormal preputial discharge can result in excessive licking. Preputial discharge is any substance emanating (flowing) from the prepuce (the fold of skin that covers the penis). Preputial discharge may consist of blood, urine or pus. The normal dog should have no discharge; however a small amount of whitish-yellow “smegma” can accumulate around the preputial opening, and is not considered clinically significant. Causes of excessive discharge include:
Causes of Licking Genitals in Female DogsIn females, abnormal vaginal discharge can result in excessive licking. Vaginal discharge is any substance emanating (flowing) from the vulvar labia (the external female genitals). Vaginal discharge may be a normal part of the heat cycle in dogs or as a normal finding in the postpartum (afterbirth) period, sometimes lasting 6 to 8 weeks. Causes of excessive abnormal discharge include:
What To Watch For
Diagnosis of Genital Licking in Dogs
Treatment of Genital Licking in DogsThere are several things your veterinarian might recommend to treat the patient with genital discharge and excessive licking.
Home CareAdminister all prescribed medication as directed by your veterinarian and observe your pet closely. If the clinical signs are not improving or getting worse, contact your veterinarian at once. Pet insurance can be a safety net for you and your pet, Get a free quote from PetPartners today.Underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company Get Your Quote PetPartners, Inc. is an indirect corporate affiliate of PetPlace.com. PetPlace may be compensated when you click on or make a purchase using the links in this article. 0 paws up Popular PostsPrevious ArticleNext Article |