When it comes to caring for our furry companions, we often think about their diet, vaccinations, joint health or dental care. But there is one part of male dog anatomy that’s often overlooked: the prostate gland.

Like humans, male dogs do have prostates, and just like in humans, this small gland can cause big problems if something goes wrong.

As your veterinary team, we believe education is the first step to prevention and early treatment. This essential guide will help you understand what the prostate does, what can go wrong, and how you can support your male dog’s health throughout his life.

 

Where is the Prostate Gland and What Does It Do?

The prostate is a small gland located inside the pelvic canal of male dogs, sitting just beneath the bladder and wrapping around the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body). Its main role is to produce some of the fluids that make up semen.

While the prostate is not something you’ll ever see or feel from the outside, it plays a key role in the reproductive system. When the gland becomes enlarged or diseased, it can have serious impacts on your dog’s ability to urinate, defecate or generally feel comfortable.

 

Common Prostate Problems in Male Dogs

The most common prostate issue in dogs is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). This is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that typically occurs in older undesexed male dogs due to the ongoing influence of testosterone. It is not life-threatening, but it is uncomfortable and can lead to complications if not managed.

Other prostatic conditions include:

• Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate, often caused by bacterial infection
• Prostatic abscesses: Pockets of pus in the gland, usually painful and potentially serious
• Prostatic cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that may form in or around the prostate
• Prostate cancer: Thankfully rare, but can occur in both desexed and undesexed dogs

Each of these issues affects the gland differently, but most result in a swollen prostate that interferes with the dog’s ability to toilet or generally be comfortable.

 

Signs of Prostate Trouble to Watch For

Prostate problems can sneak up slowly and may not be immediately obvious. Keep an eye out for these signs:

• Straining to urinate or producing only small amounts of urine
• Difficulty or pain when defecating
• Blood in the urine or on bedding
• Dripping urine or signs of urinary incontinence
• Lethargy or reluctance to walk or sit
• Fever (in cases of infection or abscess)

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time for a check-up. Left untreated, prostate disease can cause severe discomfort and secondary problems like urinary tract infections or kidney strain.

 

How Are Prostate Conditions Diagnosed?

A visit to the vet is the first step; early detection is key, especially for infections or tumours. During the appointment your vet will perform a physical exam, palpate the prostate (if possible) and may recommend diagnostic tools such as:

• Ultrasound: To assess the size, shape, and structure of the prostate
• Radiographs: To check for any enlargement or changes in nearby tissues
• Urialysis: To look for signs of infection or inflammation
• Blood Tests: To assess overall health and look for inflammatory markers
• Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA) or Biopsy: In cases where cancer or abscess is suspected

Treatment Options for Common Prostate Issues

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

The most straightforward and effective treatment is desexing. Removing the testicles eliminates the testosterone driving the gland’s growth, which usually leads to a reduction in size and relief of symptoms within a few weeks.

For those who prefer not to desex their dog, hormonal implants containing deslorelin offer a temporary solution by suppressing testosterone production for several months at a time.

Prostatitis and Abscesses

These bacterial infections need to be addressed with long-term antibiotic therapy, often for four to six weeks. In some cases, surgical drainage or supportive care such as intravenous fluids or pain relief may be necessary.

Prostatic Cysts

Depending on size and location, these may need to be surgically removed or managed with hormone therapy. We will tailor the treatment plan to your pet’s specific needs.

Prostate Cancer

Unfortunately, prostatic cancer in dogs is aggressive and difficult to treat. Most cases are managed palliatively, with medications to reduce discomfort and inflammation, and sometimes radiation or chemotherapy if appropriate. While the prognosis is guarded, we focus on quality of life and comfort.

 

Can Prostate Problems Be Prevented?

In many cases, yes! The most effective prevention is desexing your male dog, ideally before middle age. This not only prevents BPH but also drastically reduces the risk of infections and prostatic disease overall.

Desexing also brings additional health and behavioural benefits, including a reduced risk of testicular cancer and roaming-related injuries.

 

Why Early Intervention Matters

The earlier we catch a problem, the more options we have for treatment, and the better your dog’s chances of recovery or comfort. Prostate issues can cause your dog pain, discomfort and distress, and because our pets are masters at hiding symptoms, these issues can go unnoticed until they’re advanced. That’s why routine check-ups and early attention to changes in urination or behaviour are so important.

 

Let’s Keep Your Dog Healthy From Nose to Tail

If your male dog is showing any of the symptoms mentioned above, or if you would like to discuss desexing as a preventative measure, we’re here to help.

The compassionate veterinary team at the Ark is happy to answer your questions, provide gentle and thorough exams, and recommend a care plan that suits your dog’s age, lifestyle, and long-term health.

Let’s work together to keep your furry friend comfortable, happy, and healthy for years to come. Ready to book an appointment or learn more? Call us today or book an appointment online.