Male dogs who are not neutered are at risk of prostate disease..

So what is the Prostate?

The prostate is an accessory sex gland in male dogs that surrounds the urethra at the neck of the bladder, just in front of the pelvis. The prostate produces fluid that is added to the ejaculate when a male dog mates. As male dogs grow older this gland is influenced by testosterone from the testicles causing an increase in the size of the gland over time.

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy

As the prostate enlarges, it gradually expands backward which can eventually obstruct the rectum, which causes straining to pass faeces and even constipation. The faeces passed may appear flat or squashed. Defecation is understandably difficult.

Sometimes this enlarged prostate pushes forward and complicates urination. Blood in the urine can be a sign of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Blood in the urine is also a sign of more concerning diseases

Prostatitis and Prostatic Abscess

These conditions cause inflammation and swelling of the prostate, due to infection and even an abscess within gland. It is painful and can cause fever, vomiting, and difficulty urinating or defecating. The dog may have blood or pus dripping from his penis.

Treatment can be complicated and antibiotics rarely solve the problem long term.

Prevention is the key, and early neutering will prevent these health problems!