Why is my male dog licking his butt and penis? Is it normal?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 11 months and 29 days old | 27.5 lbs
Why is my male dog always licking his butt and penis? It is very annoying.
5 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 8th, 2017
Dogs can definitely do this as part of normal grooming behavior, or maybe a bit excessively sometimes. It's also possible that something is irritating him down there. This could be something like an infection, allergies, or impacted anal sacs. It's a good idea to have a vet check him for any medical problems leading to the excessive licking. It's definitely possible that there is a reason for this, which can be corrected. I hope that helps.
9Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 28th, 2019
I recommend to take Copper into see his veterinarian. If he is looking more than normal, this could indicate a bladder infection, crystals in the urine or another source of discomfort when he urinates. An infection in the prepuce is also possible. Since he can’t talk and tell you, it’s always better to be safe. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 6th, 2017
Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Mateo. It looks like the skin of the sheath is very irritated from him licking so much. I would advise taking him to your veterinarian for a history and examination. Based on those findings, your vet can advise you on any diagnostic tests (if needed) and treatment. Treatment may involve antibiotics, anti-itch medicine, and an Elizabethan collar to prevent further licking until this heals. The more he licks the more he damages the skin and allows the bacteria on the skin to cause an infection. Good luck
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on March 19th, 2017
That could be part of normal cleaning habit, but if it becomes persistent and you notice any sign of inflammation infection (redness, swelling, or frequent urination or excess of discharge-smegma) then a check up would be needed. Otherwise I would consider it normal.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 13th, 2018
Poor Duke! It does almost look like Duke has a couple areas of ulceration/irritation right at his sheath. This could be an infection, or he could have created this ulceration just from being itchy and licking too much in this area. If the licking continues, or if the raw areas spread or look worse, he needs to see the vet. Some licking in young male dogs is normal but not to the point where the prepucial skin looks abraded, like it does here. He may need a urine test to rule out a urinary tract infection, or to try an allergy trial on a drug like Apoquel to stop the itching. I have not seen this before, but it is possible that he could have a small viral or bacterial infection going on in the prepuce skin requiring a culture to isolate. Your vet can help you with this. Hope that helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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