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Why is my dog's scrotum swollen and fluid-filled after neutering?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 11 months and 23 days old | 11.5 lbs

Hello, my dog (1 yr Shih Tzu) was fixed last week, and he has a growth at the base of his penis. It is a black sack that seems to be filled with fluid of some sort. Is this an area of concern? The sack does not appear to contain his testicles; his scrotum is much higher.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 17th, 2019

The area you are pointing at in the picture looks like Señor Bean's scrotum. It will not contain his testicles anymore as he was neutered, which involves removing the testicles. Sometimes the area can fill up with a little fluid after surgery. It looks like the incision is intact, and often the swelling will go away on its own over time, but I recommend calling your vet if you are concerned. See the link below for more information on what neutering involves: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951454 I love the name Señor Bean, by the way! It's adorable!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Maria DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 21st, 2017

    There are two ways of doing a neuter in dogs. One is in front of the scrotum, while the other is on the scrotum. If there is swelling and discharge I recommend icing the scrotum 3 times a day for 10 minutes. May sure you don't put the ice directly on the skin. I also recommend calling your veterinarian in the morning and have them take a look at Moodle to make sure it is not infected. There can always be some post-op swelling but I still would recommend having them take a look. I hope Moodle feels better soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Rosemary Barber, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 28th, 2017

    Hello! This is a fairly common issue after neutering. The fluid coming out is likely from the incision, which might be just a small, tidy looking line just in front of the scrotum. The fact that the scrotum is filling up, is telling us that tissue fluid is building up in the empty scrotum. This warrants a visit to your vet (a post-operative check). There might be an infection brewing, which is better to treat earlier than later. So, ideally, give your vet a call and make an appointment! Also, keep his activity level down, and prevent him from licking the area in the meantime. Best of luck with Elvis!

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