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What are the lumps on my dog's penis that get smaller after peeing?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 7 months old

Hello , my male 7 year old dog has two lumps on his penis, one on each side. I took him for a walk and after he peed alittle they got smaller.

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 29th, 2016

If the lumps are at the base of his penis, it could be his "bulbus glandis". Also known as the "knot", these glands become pronounced during mating or excitement and are quite normal. If the lumps are not at the base, have Max examined by your vet to determine cause.

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16Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    These are probably his bulbourethral glands, which is absolutely normal. Here is a picture: http://www.askavetquestion.com/images/bulbourethralglands.jpg

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on January 8th, 2017

    If it is at the base of the penis, it is likely Thor's bulbus glandis (aka the knot). It is normal and used to create the tie during mating. If the penis does not retract into the sheath after the swelling subsides or if it stays erect, then Thor needs to be seen by a vet as this is an emergency.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on September 21st, 2017

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If what you describe is inside of the skin, a few inches caudal to the tip of the prepuce, you may be describing the bulbus glandis which is a normal anatomical structure which kinda looks like a lump but it is normal. Good luck!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 4th, 2017

    If these lumps on Woofy's penis are in the middle of his penis, then likely what you are seeing are his bulbourethral glands. These are a normal part of a dog's anatomy, and swell when the dog is aroused or excited. This is not something you need to take him to an ER vet for :-) This limping may be caused by his arousal, but keep an eye on it for now. If the limping continues over the weekend, then I would have him seen by a vet, as it may have been caused by an injury which the vet can diagnose and treat.

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