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My unneutered dog has a dark testicle and discharge. Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 75 lbs

Hi there! Kobe just came back from a three week board and training program and we had just noticed that one of his testicles is black in color while the other is the usual color. He isn’t neutered and our groomer noticed some yellow/greenish penile discharge today. Should I be concerned?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 25th, 2018

Both of the problems you've noted can be normal. The dark skin is normally seen on the testicles, but if it seemed to happen suddenly, then this can indicate that there has been irritation of the scrotum. The scrotum often gets irritated from rubing against things, and with infections - I do not see evidence of infection here. I wouldn't be worried about it unless you start to notice defects in the skin, or any redness and oozing. The greenish discharge is a normal funding from a dog's prepuce. This is a substance they secrete called smegma and is seen occasionally. Infections can also cause discolored discharge, but it would be oozing a lot, causing irritation and swelling. If you are not noticing any other problems, then I would not worry about it. If you happen to notice any signs of a problem, then it's best to have a vet evaluate him, because infections in these areas often require prescription treatment. I hope that helps and all is well with Kobe.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sometimes when skin gets irritated from licking or in this case perhaps from the kennel floor it willl get darker. The change is due to increased pigment in the skin causing it to be darker. This is a normal reaction and the skin itself is fine. This may lighten up over time or it may stay as dark. In the photo the skin looks normal other than darker. I would feel both testicles to make sure they are about the same size and not swollen or painful. As far as the penile discharge this is called smegma and is normal in all male dogs. Some dogs have more than others. It helps lubricate the penis in the sheath. Again if his penis is normal and he’s urinating fine this is nothing to be overly concerned about. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Kobe.

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