TL;DR: Prostate enlargement is a common condition in older, intact male dogs that typically requires a veterinary exam within 24 to 48 hours, though an inability to urinate is a critical emergency.
What is prostate enlargement in dogs?
Prostate enlargement, often medically referred to as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition in older, intact male dogs. It occurs when the prostate gland increases in size due to hormonal influences, which can eventually put pressure on the urethra and the rectum, causing discomfort and bathroom issues.
How urgent is prostate enlargement and when should I see a vet?
Prostate enlargement is generally classified as a medium urgency level. While it is rarely an immediate life-threatening emergency, it is a progressive condition that requires a veterinary examination within 24 to 48 hours. If your dog is completely unable to pass urine, this is a critical emergency and you should seek immediate care at an ER facility.
What are the common symptoms if my dog has an enlarged prostate?
- Straining to defecate
- Producing flat or ribbon-shaped stools
- Blood-tinged fluid dripping from the penis independently of urination
- A stiff-legged gait
- Persistent urinary tract infections
How can providing photos or videos help the vet triage my dog?
- Share photos of any abnormal discharge or the specific shape of the stool.
- Record a video of your dog's posture while attempting to urinate.
- Provide visual evidence to help the clinical team assess straining and discomfort to better prioritize your dog's care.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In mature, intact dogs, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition characterized by a uniformly enlarged, non-painful prostate upon rectal palpation. Affected dogs may be asymptomatic or exhibit hematuria, hemospermia, or rectal tenesmus. Other prostatic disorders, such as bacterial prostatitis, prostatic abscesses, prostatic and paraprostatic cysts, and prostatic adenocarcinoma, are less frequent but can occur in castrated males as well. Clinical signs of prostatic disease can include tenesmus, intermittent hematuria, recurrent urinary tract infections, and caudal abdominal discomfort. Non-specific signs like fever, malaise, anorexia, severe stiffness, and caudal abdominal pain may indicate acute bacterial infections, abscesses, or neoplasia. Prostatic adenocarcinoma with bony involvement may lead to hindlimb gait abnormalities. Diagnosis of BPH is suggested by physical and historical findings and confirmed through radiology and ultrasonography, which reveal prostatomegaly and diffuse cystic structures. Cytologic examination may reveal hemorrhage and mild inflammation. Definitive diagnosis requires biopsy.
Chapter: Reproductive Medicine
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 2238)