Reader Question: Puppy with Exposed Penis After Rear Leg Amputation – What Can Help?

by DBV
(TX)

Reader's Question:

Our small dog (5 lbs, 6 1/2 months) was injured and subsequently had an amputation of his right rear leg. His penis was x-rayed and the bone is not broken. He is not incontinent. There is nerve damage. The penis just doesn’t stay in. I use KY regularly but he is a six-month-old pup and I am wondering if a small stitch could be put in place that would not interfere with urination?

Any suggestions appreciated. I don’t want to use a belly band, but I also want it protected.

Understanding the Condition and Treatment Options

Thank you for your question, and I’m sorry to hear about the challenges your pup is facing after his injury. It sounds like your puppy is experiencing a condition known as paraphimosis or partial penile prolapse, which can sometimes occur when there's nerve damage affecting the retraction muscles of the sheath (prepuce) that normally covers the penis. This is even more complex in dogs who have had recent trauma or surgery, such as amputation. While I am not a Vet, I can provide some perspective on this issue.

Why the Penis Won’t Retract

• Nerve Damage: The nerve supply to the retractor penis muscle may have been compromised, leading to loss of function. This causes the penis to remain exposed, especially if the surrounding musculature or sheath has also been affected.
• Age and Hormones: At 6 ½ months, your puppy is reaching sexual maturity, which can make the tissues more active and prone to engorgement, further complicating retraction.

Risks of Prolonged Exposure

• Dryness, inflammation, trauma, infection, and even necrosis of the tissue can occur if the penis is regularly exposed and unprotected.
• While using a lubricant like KY Jelly is helpful in the short term, it’s not a long-term solution.

Can a Stitch

Help?

Yes, there is a surgical option known as a temporary or permanent purse-string suture placed in the preputial opening. This can help prevent the penis from slipping out while still allowing room for urination. However, it must be done carefully to:

• Avoid constricting the urethra (which would block urination), and
• Allow some mobility for occasional cleaning or erections as your dog matures.

This should only be done by a veterinarian who is experienced with genital surgery and ideally after an assessment of the extent of nerve damage.

Other Protection Options (If Not Using a Belly Band)

• Custom protective garments: A soft cloth wrap or light medical sleeve could be sewn or modified to protect the area, much like a modified dog diaper without covering the full abdomen.
• Veterinary support garments: Some companies sell soft medical suits or sleeves that offer localized protection while allowing for urination.
• Frequent lubrication and cleaning: While KY Jelly helps, try combining it with a mild antiseptic barrier ointment (like one with zinc oxide or silver sulfadiazine cream—vet prescribed) to protect against infection and trauma.

What to Do Next

• Schedule a veterinary consultation: Especially with a surgical vet if possible. Ask specifically about a preputial narrowing suture or other mechanical solutions.
• Monitor the exposed tissue daily: Watch for any color change (blue, black, dark red), swelling, or foul smell—all signs that urgent intervention is needed.
• Maintain lubrication: Continue using KY or similar sterile lubricant several times a day until a longer-term solution is implemented.

Your instincts are right to seek a more permanent and protective solution while avoiding discomfort. A minor surgical correction may be very helpful, and in a growing puppy, there may still be some improvement with time if nerve healing occurs.

Best,
Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Dog Health Guide
Please note: This information is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your pet's veterinarian. Always consult a vet for professional medical advice about your pet's health.