What Causes Green Discharge in Male Dogs?

One of the most concerning symptoms a dog owner may notice is a green discharge from a dog’s penis, which may indicate an infection or be a normal function that doesn’t require medical treatment. If you observe additional symptoms or discomfort accompanying this discharge, there may be a serious condition that your veterinarian can assess at your next appointment.

While it may be more convenient to ignore this symptom, if it doesn’t appear to be causing any discomfort, it may be a sign of problems with your dog’s bodily functions, a bacterial infection, or an underlying condition.

When to Visit Your Veterinarian

While your male dog’s green discharge may be part of your pet’s normal bodily functions, there are significant signs that may indicate a more serious problem, other than regular smegma, which may require a visit to the veterinarian.

• If your dog begins excessively licking their pelvic region, specifically the penis, your pet may be attempting to find relief from inflammation due to an infection.
• Your dog appears ill, extremely tired, or listless, which may include a loss of appetite and low energy.
• If the discharge increases in volume, or to a yellow discharge, a bloody discharge, or other changes that are unlike regular smegma.

It’s common for some dogs to produce a lot of smegma, and your pup will lick this area of their body to remove it efficiently. The color of this discharge can range from green, yellow, or white in color, which is normal, as it is comprised of dead cells and similar materials that collect around your pet’s prepuce. Licking this area provides relief around your dog’s genitals and helps keep this area clean.

When Discharge Is a Symptom of a Serious Problem

If you notice the discharge originates directly from your dog’s penis, this may be a sign of a serious medical condition or health problem. Similar to male dogs, a female dog can exhibit similar signs of infection or a severe issue when vaginal discharge changes significantly or presents itself with other unhealthy symptoms.

When your dog’s prepuce or penis becomes bloody or pus-like, this may indicate a health issue that a veterinarian must treat. The following conditions may be the result of this concerning type of discharge:

• A urinary tract infection or urinary tract stones
• An infection in the reproductive organs or the development of cancer in this region
• Erectile issues or an ongoing disorder causing increased discharge
• Issues with blood clotting due to injury or infection
• An injury that may lead to complications
• Symptoms of prostatic disease
• A foreign body or material lodged inside the prepuce

Additional Symptoms of Concern

You’ll want to look out for other symptoms, which may indicate other health conditions or illnesses. A rash in the pelvic region is common, and this symptom may develop due to irritation from environmental factors not directly related to your pet’s health. It may occur when your dog sits down on a surface with insects, irritants, or something that causes an allergic reaction.

An insect bite may cause swelling and discharge, which should only last until it is healed, though a serious allergic reaction, and repeatedly sitting or lying on a surface with irritants or allergens may cause ongoing rashes and discomfort. Since most rashes are mild and typically disappear with little treatment, it’s essential to monitor your pup’s symptoms for a worsening condition, which may require a visit to the vet.

How to Soothe Your Dog’s Symptoms

Whether your dog is experiencing an allergic reaction or is exposed to an irritant, there are several ways to soothe your pet’s discomfort, especially when the discharge is accompanied by a moderate to severe rash lasting more than two days.

• Keep your pet away from outdoor areas where some insects or plants may bite or cause a reaction.
• Bathe your dog in cool or lukewarm water with a mild soap to provide relief from an itchy rash and ongoing discharge.
• Use recommended ointments or skin treatments to soothe the affected areas as recommended by a veterinarian.
• Anti-itch formulas and mild shampoos can also provide much-needed relief to your furry friend and may alleviate rashes and irritated skin.

You may notice that a persistent infection doesn’t disappear quickly, or there may be another underlying cause, such as parasites or a recurring allergy. If there are no improvements in your pup’s condition, it’s best to have them assessed by a veterinarian.

Final Thoughts

Male dogs commonly display green discharge, which can either be a normal part of their bodily functions or lead to more serious symptoms. When you visit your veterinarian, based on an increased severity in discharge and other signs, it’s best to look for other signs of infection and illness, such as eye infections, ear canal congestion, and inflammation.

In most cases, with the proper care and keeping a close eye on your pup, you’ll find that most types of discharge are normal and a part of your dog’s body’s way of cleaning itself.