Why is my neutered dog's penis red, exposed, and constantly licked?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Puggle | Male | neutered | 6 years and 7 months old | 30 lbs
My Puggle has been licking and using his paw to push and rub his penis. He is neutered and has been since he was 6 months he is now 6 years old. The rubbing and the licking has become more frequent over the past year. And now some of his penis is staying out and it’s really red. What should I do?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 24th, 2018
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Buster. He should be evaluated by his veterinarian for this issue. The rubbing and licking indicate that he is uncomfortable in the region. He could have foreign material stuck in his prepuce. I had a patient that continually humped his bed and had pieces of blanket in his prepuce. He could also have a mass on his penis. In the meantime, you can try to get his penis back into his prepuce. If this is not possible, then you can apply lubrication such as KY jelly to the penis. This will prevent the exteriorized portion from drying out. I hope this information helps!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 11th, 2019
Even neutered male dogs masturbate. When a dog's penis becomes erect, it does look red and protrudes from the prepuce (sheath). As long as Scribbles' penis fully retracts into his prepuce, there is no need for concern. However, if his penis remains partially out of the prepuce (as shown in the pictures), I recommend taking him to the vet. If this occurs, the tissues of the penis can become dry, irritated and inflamed.
6Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 2nd, 2018
It's possible that the area is sore due to trauma (hit it on something or was bitten by another dog), or has a mild infection. It's good that he is not having any issues urinating, or obvious deformities. This helps to rule-out anything serious. It would also be concerning of he had obvious swelling and excessive discharge from the prepuce. In order to tell more, I would have to examine him. Considering it seems to be a mild problem, I think it's fine to just observe for now. If he is overgrooming the area for more than two weeks, then it would be best to have a vet evaluate Buddy. I hope that helps and all is well with Buddy.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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