Prostatitis
Like humans, dogs have a prostrate. The prostate contributes to the formation of semen. The gland typically enlarges over time under the influence of testosterone and other hormones. Glandular thickening initiates the process in the first two years of life, causing progressive hyperplasia or over-development of the gland. Doberman pinschers appear to be at the highest risk for prostate problems.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH is a common prostatic disorder, and common signs include the appearance of blood in the urine or ejaculate, discharge dripping from the penis, and difficulty with defecation. The prostatic enlargement is typically symmetric, affecting both lobes. The prostate will feel larger on abdominal palpation or with palpation through the rectum, but the examination should not cause pain.
BPH typically progresses to a more complex problem over time, with areas of cellular collapse, fibrous thickening, and the formation of cystic areas. These fluid-filled cystic areas may be large or small, and can potentially double the size of the gland. Changes are often asymmetric, conferring an irregular contour to the gland that the veterinarian likely will recognize while palpating the prostate.
The enlarging prostate can cause the colon to be displaced, and this may interfere with normal defecation. Dogs with significant prostatic enlargement are often constipated and strain excessively to defecate. Less commonly, BPH interferes with normal voiding of urine by compressing the urethra.
Dogs with acute prostatitis will often have fever and signs of systemic illness, such as loss of appetite, malaise and depression, as well as localized signs of prostatic inflammation that include swelling, pain and urinary discharge.
Dogs with significant prostatic enlargement are often constipated and strain excessively to defecate.
Neutering dogs while they are puppies or young adults will largely prevent prostatic hyperplasia and infection.
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