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My dog's penis is red, inflamed, with pus. Is it an infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 24 days old | 21 lbs

My dogs penis head is red and inflamed. It doesnt look to be cut but is only inflamed on one side. It doesnt seem to bother him but is questionable as there is white pus on the end. What does this look like to u and is this an emergency?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 23rd, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Judging from the photo that you provided, the prepuce (sheath of the penis) looks red at the tip and appears that it may be infected. If you are seeing pus or small white heads, then I would classify this as a skin infection. I would recommend applying a spray such as malacetic conditioning spray to the affected area twice daily until this is resolved. You can purchase this spray online quite easily. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Duke! It looks like he may have been bit by something. I would try giving him some Benadryl twice a day and watch that area closely. See link below. The pus could be just normal discharge from him penis called smegma. Also, don’t let him lick that area. You can put a cone collar on him to prevent this. If the area isn’t improving, I would have your vet take a look at it. Your vet will be able to prescribe some antibiotics and stronger allergy meds if needed. I hope this helps. https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/

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