How to Recognize and Treat Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy in Dogs

Many dog owners become concerned when their dog’s prostate becomes enlarged. This is very common in male dogs as they become older. This change is typically not cancerous and doesn’t cause any health problems for your dog. Some dogs may experience uncomfortable symptoms such as strain while having a bowel movement. For dogs with symptoms, it’s helpful to seek treatment. Here’s how to recognize and treat benign prostatic hypertrophy in dogs.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Instructions

1. Take note of your dog’s symptoms. In order for your vet to make a diagnosis of your dog’s condition she needs all of the facts. Canines that experience benign prostatic hypertrophy may have symptoms such as bloody urine, pain while having a bowel movement and discharge from the prostate area.

2. Call your veternarian to schedule an appointment. Your vet will give your canine a physical exam which may include taking a urine sample, aspiration of the affected area and x-rays. After evaluating your dog’s test results, your vet will determine if your dog has benign prostatic hypertrophy.

3. Realize that your dog may need to be neutered as part of the treatment. Allowing your canine to be neutered will reduce the symptoms he experiences from this condition. Ask your vet if this is a good option for your canine.

4. Monitor the area for swelling or infection. Once your dog is neutered it’s important to monitor the area for swelling or complications. This will ensure your dog makes a full recovery from benign prostatic hypertrophy.

5. Remember that If your dog doesn’t have any symptoms treatment isn’t needed. Benign prostatic hypertrophy doesn’t always cause symptoms. If your dog is diagnosed with this condition but doesn’t have symptoms treatment isn’t needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Estrogen therapy may be effective in some dogs. If your dog is experiencing symptoms of this condition ask your medical provider about estrogen therapy. This is typically a shot administered to your canine that affects the release of hormone secretions. Controlling the release of hormones may reduce his symptoms.
• There is a way to prevent benign prostatic hypertrophy. Some dog owners choose not to neuter their canine because of breeding or other reasons. However, the benefit to neutering your dog is prevention of benign prostatic hypertrophy.

Resources

• Pet Place
• Merck Vet Manual

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