A Pale Penis and More Licking After Neutering
by A reader
Reader Question
My 1.5-year-old Havanese was neutered a couple of months ago and now licks there more than usual and sometimes stumbles as if something bothers him. He's otherwise happy and active, pees normally, and the penis extends and retracts normally with no swelling or discharge. But it's white rather than the bright red it was before. Is this normal?
Answer from Our Team
The color of a dog's penis changes with blood flow. When it first comes out, it's often pale pink, and it darkens as blood flows in during excitement. A lighter color after neutering is common and usually normal, since lower hormone levels change how often and how much it swells.
Some extra licking after neutering is common as the area heals and changes. If the licking is constant, or you see redness, discharge, swelling or a bad smell, have your vet check for irritation or infection of the sheath. A sudden stumble or skip can also come from a knee problem, such as a slipping kneecap, which is common in small breeds.
See dog penis problems.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
