A Young Cavachon Suddenly Licking His Penis
by A reader
Reader Question
My 11-month-old Cavachon has been paying strange attention to his penis, suddenly sitting and licking it. The only thing I can think of is a reaction to a shampoo. His penis doesn't look right, it seems very sensitive, and the tip and opening look darker than normal, almost like dirt. I'm bringing him to the vet Monday. Is there anything that will give him relief in the meantime?
Answer from Our Team
Sudden licking and sensitivity can come from irritation from a shampoo left on the skin, an infection of the sheath or penis, a urinary infection, or a small grass seed or debris inside the sheath. The darker look at the tip may be dried discharge or blood.
Until the appointment, rinse the area gently with lukewarm water or saline to remove any shampoo residue, pat it dry, and use a cone or a soft T-shirt to stop him licking. Don't apply creams unless your vet says they're safe.
Go sooner if he strains or cries when peeing, there's blood in the urine, or the swelling gets worse.
See dog penis problems.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
