Prostate disease in dogs is a condition that involves a male dog’s prostate gland becoming enlarged. The prostate is a gland located right by the male dog’s bladder.
Dogs suffering from disease of the prostate can have problems urinating and sometimes defecating. They often seem like they’re straining to pee or poop.
If you see signs that your dog might have prostate disease, then you must consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and course of treatment. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of prostate disease in dogs.
Symptoms Of Prostate Disease In Dogs
Prostate disease in dogs usually results in male dogs having difficulties with their usual peeing and pooping routines.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Difficulty urinating
- Presence of blood in the urine
- Difficulty defecating
- Straining while attempting to pee or poop
Causes Of Prostate Disease In Dogs
There are a number of causes of prostate disease in dogs. Most of these causes result in the dog’s prostate gland enlarging.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Paraprostatic cysts
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (also known as BPH)
- Bacterial infections
- Abscesses in the prostate
Treatments For Prostate Disease In Dogs
If your veterinarian suspects that your dog is suffering from prostate disease, they’ll try to figure out if the prostate gland is enlarged.
This will involve your vet attempting to feel the prostate, which usually happens through a rectal exam or by feeling through the dog’s abdominal wall. The vet may also need to use X-rays and other imaging tests, along with urine samples.
If the vet confirms their diagnosis, the course of treatment will then depend on the root cause of the disease. In some cases, this might involve neutering the dog, while other courses of action could include a prescription of antibiotics or a procedure to drain and eventually remove any abscesses.
Has your dog ever suffered from prostate disease? How did your vet help treat your pet? Tell us all about it in the comments below!
