Why it's important to clean your dog's penis
Cleaning Your Dog's Penis: Why It Matters for Their Health and Wellbeing
As a pet owner, you want to do everything you can to ensure your dog is healthy and comfortable. While there are a lot of healthcare tasks to keep up with, one that is easy to overlook but should not be neglected is cleaning your dog's penis.
The penis of a male dog is sensitive and prone to irritation, inflammation, and bacteria buildup if not regularly cleaned. This can lead to health issues like urinary tract infections or painful skin conditions, as well as odour and discomfort for your pet. Regular cleaning can help keep these issues from occurring, so it's important to get into the habit of doing it.
Regular cleaning can help prevent these issues from developing in the first place and keep your dog's penis clean and healthy. Cleaning can be done with a warm, wet washcloth or we recommend our new product from Jean Peau
It is important to avoid using harsh soaps or detergents that could further irritate the sensitive skin around the penis.
What to look out for:
- Redness or swelling around the penis
- Discharge coming from the penis (smegma)
- Scratching or licking of the area
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your pet to the vet for an examination and treatment. Regular cleaning can help prevent these issues from developing in the first place and keep your dog's penis clean and healthy.
Woah - what's smegma?
Dog smegma is a substance that is produced in the crevices of your dog's penis. It is made up of dead skin cells, dried urine and other secretions which can create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Smegma can lead to inflammation and discomfort if not regularly cleaned.
Although it's normal, dog owners should pay attention to the smegma that accumulates on their pet's penis and regularly clean it away. This will help ensure your pup is healthy and free from any infections or discomfort in the area.
What's normal?
It's perfectly normal for a healthy dog to produce smegma so keeping a weekly eye on the area is a good idea. If you notice redness, swelling, or any discharge other than smegma then it's time to take your pet to the vet for an examination and treatment.
Excessive licking will often be a warning sign that something isn't quite right.
Regular grooming of your dog will help you keep on top of this.
Shouldn't I leave it for them to clean on their own?
Dogs often clean their own penis because:
It is an instinctive behaviour that they learn from their mother
It helps to keep the area clean and free of bacteria
It provides comfort and relief from itching, inflammation or infection in the area
It feels good!
However, it's not always possible for male dogs to reach their penis and do a thorough clean, so it's important for owners to do this.
Inflammation of the penis & prepuce
Neglecting to clean your dog's genitals can lead to an infection called balanoposthitis which can be painful for them.
Balanoposthitis is caused by a buildup of bacteria and debris in the prepuce and penis which can lead to inflammation and discomfort.
This will need to be treated with a course of antibiotics from the vet. Again, prevention is always better than cure so stay on top of your dog's cleaning routine.
Wait! I can't see his penis!
Ha - your dog will keep his penis tucked away, which is normal.
Dogs have a retractable penis which is tucked away in the prepuce (similar to male foreskins). You'll get to observe it whenever your pup goes for a pee or poo, however, its primary purpose is during mating.
Unpleasant smells?
You may have noticed a foul smell recently, perhaps excessive licking. Your dog's privates produce a strong odour which may become more noticeable if the area is not regularly cleaned. To get rid of this smell treat the area with a gentle product such as our Jean Peau foreskin cleanser. This will help to remove the smell and keep your pup feeling fresh!
Will neutering your dog help control smegma?
Neutering your dog can help reduce or eliminate smegma buildup in some cases. Smegma is a thick, waxy substance caused by an accumulation of bacteria, yeast, and dead skin cells that can form around the penis and vulva of unneutered dogs. Neutering a dog will reduce or eliminate the production of hormones that can contribute to smegma formation. Additionally, regular grooming sessions will help keep the area clean and free of smegma buildup. There are, of course, other factors to consider before neutering such as behavioural issues, but if smegma is an issue then it may be an option.
Conclusion:
Your dog's penis is an important area and one that needs to be regularly cleaned. Neglecting to do so can lead to unpleasant odours and even painful skin conditions. To keep your pup happy and healthy it is essential to get into the habit of regular cleaning.
Whether it's getting your dog in the bath for a thorough clean or treating the area with a gentle cleanser, make sure you stay on top of it.
We recommend our Jean Peau Foreskin Cleanser for a gentle, effective way of keeping your pet's area clean and free from infection.
Lecker Bites is passionate about natural, functional dog & cat treats made with carefully selected ingredients. With a strong focus on health, allergies, and fussy eaters, every article is written to help pet parents make better, more informed feeding choices – because treats should do more than just taste good.
Proudly recognised as a three-time award-winning natural pet treat brand.
Keep your male dog comfortable and clean with Jean Peau Foreskin Cleaner. Male dogs are prone to "dripping" and inflammation (balanoposthitis) caused by bacteria, urine, or debris trapped in the prepuce. This gentle cleaner is specifically designed to flush out impurities and prevent painful infections.
Regular use helps eliminate unpleasant odours and stops the "white drops" that can make a mess in your home. Based on natural extracts, it maintains a healthy pH balance without irritating sensitive skin.
Prevents Inflammation: Reduces the risk of infection and redness.
Hygienic Solution: Removes smegma and debris naturally.
Easy to Use: Gentle application for regular intimate care.
Other Products you’ll love
(This product has been freeze-dried & is suitable for BARF feeding)
Boost your pet's hydration with the Lecker Bites Nutritious Beef Liver Drink. This easy-to-prepare drink is made with 100% natural, freeze-dried beef liver, creating a flavour-packed "smoothie" that dogs and cats can't resist.
Simply add water to the freeze-dried powder to create a rich, vitamin-dense drink. Beef liver is a natural superfood, providing a concentrated source of Vitamin A, Iron, and B-Vitamins to support heart health and energy levels. It’s the perfect way to encourage pets to drink more water, especially during hot weather or for cats who struggle with hydration.
How to Use: Fill the pouch (or bowl) with warm water, stir/shake, and let it sit for 3-5 minutes. Serve as a refreshing drink or pour it over dry kibble as a nutritious food topper.
Key Benefits:
100% Beef Liver: No artificial flavours, colours, or preservatives.
Hydration Support: Encourages water intake in picky drinkers.
Nutrient Rich: High in Iron and essential minerals for vitality.
Low Fat: A guilt-free way to reward your pet.
It's the perfect way to keep them hydrated and help them stay cool when the mercury rises!
(This product has been freeze-dried & is suitable for BARF feeding)
Support your pet's digestive health with Lecker Bites Freeze-Dried Tripe Mix, the ultimate natural superfood for dogs and cats. This 100% natural mix is gently freeze-dried to preserve the live enzymes and beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that are often lost in processed pet foods.
Our Tripe Mix is rich in Lactobacillus Acidophilus, a healthy probiotic that supports gut flora and a strong immune system. It also contains the perfect 1:1 ratio of Calcium to Phosphorus, making it excellent for bone and joint health. With its intense, natural aroma, it is an irresistible high-value reward that can tempt even the most finicky eaters.
Key Benefits:
100% Raw Tripe: No bleaching, no chemicals, and zero fillers or grains.
Digestive Support: Packed with natural enzymes to help with sensitive stomachs and better nutrient absorption.
Irresistible Scent: Perfect for training or as a "topper" to encourage picky pets to eat their meals.
Immune Boost: Naturally occurring vitamins and minerals support overall vitality and a shiny coat.
