A watercolor painting of a dog lounging on a bed.

What is Prostate Disease in Dogs?

What is it?

Prostate disease in dogs refers to any condition that affects the prostate gland, which is located near the urinary bladder and produces seminal fluid. Prostate disease can range from benign enlargement to inflammation and infection, and can lead to a range of urinary and reproductive symptoms. Prostate disease can affect male dogs of any age or breed, but is more commonly seen in older dogs.

How is it Treated?

The treatment of prostate disease in dogs depends on the type and severity of the condition. In mild cases, medication and supportive care may be recommended to manage symptoms and prevent complications. More severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as castration, to remove or reduce the size of the prostate gland. 

Breed Predispositions

Boxers Doberman Pinschers German Shepherds Golden Retrievers Labrador Retrievers Rottweilers Shih Tzus Siberian Huskies Standard Poodles Yorkshire Terriers

Introduction

It had been a few weeks since John noticed that his loyal German Shepherd, Zeus, was having difficulty urinating and seemed to be in pain. At first, he attributed it to the occasional upset stomach or a minor infection. However, as the symptoms persisted, John grew increasingly worried about his best friend’s health. He decided to schedule an appointment with the veterinarian to get to the bottom of the issue. After a thorough examination, the veterinarian informed John that Zeus was suffering from prostate disease, a condition that John had never heard of before.

Prostate disease in dogs is a prevalent condition affecting older male dogs, with about half of the intact male dogs experiencing prostate issues by the time they reach middle age. The prostate gland, located at the base of the bladder and surrounding the urethra, produces prostatic fluid that helps keep sperm healthy and strong. Unfortunately, many owners may not realize their dog has prostate cancer until after the dog’s passing. In addition, unneutered dogs are more likely to develop testicular cancer than neutered dogs.

Types of Prostate Disease in Dogs

There are four main types of prostate diseases in dogs:

Prostatitis

Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate gland, which can be acute or chronic. It is often caused by bacterial infections resulting from urinary tract infections or other underlying health issues. Symptoms of prostatitis include fever, pain in the hindquarters, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and lethargy.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is dogs’ most common prostate disease, particularly in older, unneutered male dogs. It involves the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which is often hormone-related. BPH can cause difficulty in urination and defecation, blood in the urine, and straining during bowel movements. It can also lead to urinary tract infections.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is less common in dogs than BPH but can be aggressive and life-threatening. Symptoms of prostate cancer may include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, straining during bowel movements, weight loss, and lethargy. Unfortunately, by the time the cancer is detected, it may have already spread to other body parts. 

Some breeds are more prone to developing prostate cancer than others. For example, German Shepherd Dog, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Poodle, Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Chow Chow, Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, English Springer Spaniel, French Bulldog, Great Dane, Irish Setter, Jack Russell Terrier, Keeshond, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, Shih Tzu, Standard Poodles, Yorkshire Terrier, and Vizsla are some of the most commonly affected breeds.

Prostatic Cysts

Prostatic cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the prostate gland. These cysts can vary in size and may cause symptoms like difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and pain in the hindquarters. In some cases, prostatic cysts may become infected, leading to prostatitis.

When the prostate enlarges due to age or injury, dogs with prostate issues may experience urinary tract infections (UTIs), painful urination, and incontinence. In addition, the prostate is painful for the affected dog, and a prostatic cyst may develop. Prostate-specific arginine esterase, an enzyme involved in prostatic fluid production, may also be affected.

It is essential to monitor your dog’s health, mainly if they are an unneutered male or belongs to a breed predisposed to prostate issues. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help detect and address any problems early on, improving the quality of life for your canine companion.

What Causes Prostate Disease in Dogs

Various factors, including age, hormones, and infections, can cause prostate disease in dogs. The most common prostate diseases in dogs are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer. Here’s how each of these factors can contribute to prostate disease in dogs:

Inflammation of the Prostate Gland

Prostatic disease in dogs is primarily caused by inflammation of the prostate gland. This inflammation occurs when immune cells called macrophages infiltrate the prostate tissue and release chemicals that damage healthy cells. Damaged cells then attract other immune cells, leading to further harm to the prostate, such as prostatic infections. This type of inflammation is common in older male dogs and giant breeds.

a dog with prostate disease

Bacteria

The second most prevalent cause of prostatic disease in dogs is bacteria. Bacteria can enter through the urethra and cause an infection. Proteus Vulgaris is the most common type of bacteria responsible for prostate infections. Other bacteria contributing to prostate infections include P. aeruginosa, Klebsiella spp., Pasteurella multocida, Streptococcus mutans, and Escherichia coli.

Age and Hormones

As male dogs age, the levels of testosterone can cause the prostate gland to enlarge, leading to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a non-cancerous prostate gland enlargement that can cause discomfort, difficulty urinating, and other issues. Neutering can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of BPH, as it reduces testosterone levels.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is less common in dogs than BPH or prostatitis but can be a severe and aggressive disease. The exact cause of prostate cancer in dogs is poorly understood, but genetic factors, hormones, and environmental factors may contribute to its development. However, prostate cancer can cause symptoms similar to BPH and prostatitis, making it essential to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cysts and Abscesses

Fluid-filled cysts can form within the prostate gland, causing enlargement and discomfort. In addition, these cysts can sometimes become infected, leading to the formation of abscesses. Abscesses are pockets of pus within the prostate, which can be painful and potentially life-threatening if left untreated. Treatment for cysts and abscesses typically involves antibiotics and surgical intervention to drain the abscess and remove the infected tissue in severe cases.

Congenital Abnormalities

Some dogs may be born with structural abnormalities in the prostate gland, predisposing them to developing prostate disease. These congenital issues may include malformations, improper growth of the prostate, or blockages within the gland. Treatment for congenital abnormalities usually depends on the severity of the condition and may involve surgery to correct the issue.

Trauma

Physical injuries to the pelvic region can cause damage to the prostate gland, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and possible infection. Traumatic injuries may result from accidents, falls, or blunt force. Treatment for trauma-induced prostate issues will depend on the severity of the injury and may involve pain management, antibiotics, or surgery.

Immune-Mediated Disorders

In some cases, the dog’s immune system may mistakenly target the prostate gland, leading to inflammation and dysfunction. Immune-mediated disorders can be challenging to diagnose and treat, often requiring immunosuppressive medications to manage the condition.

Hormonal Imbalances

Conditions that cause hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, can contribute to prostate disease in dogs. Hormonal imbalances can change the prostate gland’s structure and function, predisposing dogs to developing prostate problems. Treating the underlying hormonal condition can help alleviate the symptoms associated with prostate disease.

Symptoms of Canine Prostate Disease

The initial symptom of canine prostate disease is often a behavior change. A dog’s routine might suddenly appear unusual or even problematic. Prostate cancer is rare in dogs, but when present, it is typically malignant and can be fatal. For example, your dog may start barking at nothing, sleeping excessively, eating less than usual, or displaying aggression toward family members. They might also show an unusual interest in another animal (such as a cat) or spend excessive time playing alone.

Other symptoms of prostate disease in dogs can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

  1. Blood in urine or semen
  2. Straining or difficulty urinating
  3. Frequent urination, often in small amounts
  4. Pain while urinating
  5. Constipation or difficulty passing stool
  6. Ribbon-like, thin stools
  7. Lethargy and weakness
  8. Pain or discomfort in the hindquarters or abdomen
  9. Stiff or abnormal gait
  10. Swelling in the abdominal area
  11. Fever (in cases of infection)
  12. Loss of appetite and weight loss
  13. Vomiting and diarrhea (less common)

Diagnosing Prostate Disease in Dogs

Prostate cancer is rare in dogs, but when present, it is typically malignant and can be fatal. Your vet may be able to determine whether your dog has a prostatic infection or cancer in the prostate through various diagnostic methods.

Physical Examination

The first step in diagnosing is to perform a physical examination. Evaluation of the prostate includes checking the size and shape of the testicles, looking for signs of an enlarged prostate gland or lymph nodes, examining the penis, assessing the anal glands, and palpating the prostate gland. If prostatic neoplasia or abnormalities are detected, further tests should be conducted.

Digital Rectal Exam

If the results from the physical exam revealed no abnormalities, the next step would be a digital rectal exam. This involves examining the prostate by inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the dog’s rectum and pressing it around the prostate gland. The veterinarian will then recheck the gland.

Blood Test

A complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test that measures the number of white and red blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. It can also detect certain toxins in your dog’s bloodstream levels. This test is performed to check for any abnormalities or signs of illness.

Urinalysis

Urinalysis, typically conducted by a clinical toxicologist, can help identify the presence of drugs and other toxins in the urine. This test may also aid in diagnosing a prostatic abscess or infection.

Biopsy

A biopsy of the prostate tissue may be necessary to confirm the presence of cancer, which can be done using fine-needle aspiration. Another PSA test measures the Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA) in the dog’s serum. High levels of PSA indicate prostate cancer, but low levels do not necessarily rule it out. Therefore, the veterinarian must consider several factors, such as the state of the urinary bladder, veterinary internal medicine history, and blood in the stool or semen, before making a final determination.

Treatment Options for Canine Prostate Disease

The treatment of prostate cancer in dogs is done through surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, cryosurgery, laser therapy, brachytherapy, and watchful waiting.

Surgery

Each option has its benefits and drawbacks. For example, surgery is often recommended because it is less invasive than other treatments. However, it is expensive and requires anesthesia. In addition, it involves removing the entire gland from the body. This is usually done when no evidence of metastasis (spread) outside the gland exists. Therefore, surgery is often combined with hormone treatments.

Hormone Treatments

Hormone treatments include medications called luteinizing hormones or LHs, which stimulate testosterone production. These medications come in various forms, including injections, pills, and creams. Some men may also need surgery to remove their testicles and have a tube passed through the incision into the scrotum to inject the LHs.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses X-rays to kill cells. This is one of the main methods used to treat prostate cancer. There are different types of radiotherapy: External beam radiotherapy and Intraoperative radiotherapy.

External beam radiotherapy uses energy directed at the tumor from outside the body. Intraoperative radiotherapy uses a particular machine during surgery to deliver radiation directly to the prostate gland.

prostate disease in dogs

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy drugs are sometimes given before or after surgery. They can be taken orally or intravenously. Oral chemotherapy is given by mouth. Standard oral chemotherapies include doxorubicin, ifosfamide, and bleomycin. Oral chemotherapy can be taken with or without food. Intravenous chemotherapy is delivered through a vein into the bloodstream. Standard intravenous chemotherapies include vincristine, cisplatin, and etoposide. Intravenous chemotherapy can be taken with or without food.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is another type of drug therapy. It works by stimulating the immune system to attack tumor cells. Monoclonal antibodies are injected into patients. They attach themselves to proteins on the surfaces of cancer cells. Other monoclonal antibodies target the receptors on cancer cells. A vaccine containing antigens found on prostate cancer cells is also used. Vaccination triggers the patient’s immune system to produce antibodies against the antigen.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is similar to chemotherapy except that it targets specific molecules on the surface of tumor cells. Antibodies bind to specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells—small molecules known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors block the action of enzymes involved in cell division. Tyrosine kinases are enzymes that transfer chemical groups onto other proteins.

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery freezes the tissue around the tumor to destroy it. Laser therapy uses light waves to heat the area around the tumor. These treatments are very effective in the control of most types of cancer. However, there is always a small risk that the tumor will return.

Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy uses radioactive material placed directly into the tumor. It delivers radiation directly to the prostate via catheters inserted into the urethra.

Watchful waiting means doing nothing until symptoms appear. When your pet has an illness, it may need to be ready to wait. This means doing something once the symptoms appear. Watchful waiting is often used when it is unclear if a pet has an illness or is just emerging for the first time.

Other ways to treat Prostate cancer include interstitial implants, medication, and hormonal therapy.

Interstitial implants use needles to place radioactive seeds inside the prostate gland.

Drugs such as cisplatin, carboplatin, cyclophosphamide, etoposide, doxorubicin, gemcitabine, mitoxantrone, paclitaxel, docetaxel, topotecan, vincristine, vinorelbine, irinotecan, flutamide, leuprolide, goserelin acetate, bicalutamide, cyproterone acetate, estramustine phosphate sodium, diethylstilbestrol diphosphate, and prednisolone are used. Some of these drugs work by damaging DNA in cancer cells. Others block cell growth or stop them from dividing. Still, others prevent blood flow to tumors.

Hormonal therapy is another way to treat advanced prostate cancer. Medications like abiraterone acetate, enzalutamide, ketoconazole, letrozole, megestrol acetate, medroxyprogesterone acetate, nafarelin, nilutamide, octreotide acetate, oxandrolone, tamoxifen citrate, triptoreline, and zoledronic acid are used. Hormonal therapy blocks the effects of male sex hormones. They help reduce the amount of testosterone produced by the testicles. Testosterone stimulates prostate cancer cells to grow.

How to Prevent Prostate Disease in Dogs

Preventing prostate disease in dogs is essential to maintain your pet’s overall health. Although there are no guaranteed prevention methods, there are several measures you can take to reduce your dog’s risk of developing prostate disease.

  1. Neutering: Neutering male dogs, especially young dogs, can significantly reduce the risk of developing prostate disease, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis.
  2. Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular veterinarian visits can help detect prostate issues early, allowing prompt treatment and management. This is particularly important for older, unneutered male dogs at a higher risk of developing prostate problems.
  3. Monitoring for symptoms: Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and monitor for any signs of prostate issues, such as difficulty urinating, bloody urine, or discomfort during defecation. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian.
  4. Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can exacerbate specific prostate issues. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of prostate disease.
  5. Prevent infections: In some cases, bacterial infections can cause prostatitis. To help prevent infections, maintain a clean environment for your dog, and ensure they have access to clean water.
  6. Good hygiene: Practice good hygiene for your dog, including regular grooming and cleaning of their living area, to help minimize the risk of infections that could lead to prostate issues.
  7. High-quality diet: Feeding your dog a balanced and high-quality diet will support overall health and well-being, which can contribute to a lower risk of prostate disease.

By following these preventive measures, pet owners can help reduce the risk of their dogs developing prostate disease. If you have concerns about your dog’s prostate health or notice any symptoms, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The life expectancy of a dog diagnosed with prostate cancer can vary depending on various factors, such as the stage of cancer, the overall health of the dog, the treatment options chosen, and individual variations. Unfortunately, prostate cancer in dogs is often diagnosed in advanced stages, making treatment challenging. Without treatment, the prognosis for dogs with prostate cancer is generally poor, and survival time can range from a few months to a year or so. However, with appropriate treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination, some dogs may have their lifespan extended and their quality of life improved.

If your dog has an enlarged prostate, it’s important to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Here are a few general recommendations that may be considered to help manage an enlarged prostate in dogs:

  1. Neutering: For non-breeding dogs, neutering (castration) is often recommended as it can help shrink the prostate and reduce hormone-related enlargement.
  2. Medications: Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatories or hormone-blocking drugs to manage the symptoms and reduce prostate size.
  3. Dietary adjustments: A balanced and appropriate diet can support your dog’s overall health, including the prostate. Your vet may recommend a diet that supports urinary health and is appropriate for your dog’s specific condition.
  4. Regular exercise: Regular exercise can help maintain muscle tone and overall health, which may indirectly benefit the prostate.
  5. Follow-up exams: Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor the condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Working closely with your veterinarian is crucial to determine the most appropriate action for your dog’s situation. They will consider the severity of the enlargement, underlying causes, and individual factors to provide tailored advice and treatment options.

The cost of removing a dog’s prostate can vary depending on factors such as location, dog size, condition severity, and surgical complexity. Prices range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian or specialist for an accurate assessment and cost estimate, which may include additional expenses for tests, post-operative care, and medications.

The duration of prostatitis in dogs can vary depending on several factors, including the underlying cause, the infection’s severity, and the treatment’s effectiveness. In some cases, prostatitis can resolve within a few weeks with appropriate treatment. However, chronic or recurring prostatitis may require long-term management and can persist for several months or even longer.

The treatment for prostatitis in dogs depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition, so it’s important to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Typically, treatment for prostatitis may involve a combination of the following:

  • Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection causes prostatitis, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to target the specific bacteria involved. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and duration of the antibiotic treatment.
  • Anti-inflammatories: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with prostatitis.
  • Prostate massage or drainage: In some cases, gentle massage or drainage of the prostate gland may be performed by a veterinarian to help relieve symptoms and promote healing.
  • Hormonal therapy: In certain cases, hormonal therapy may be recommended to help reduce the size of the prostate gland and alleviate symptoms.

Working closely with your veterinarian is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your dog’s situation. In addition, they can guide you on the proper medications, dosages, and any additional supportive care that may be needed.

The following signs may indicate that a dog has an enlarged prostate:

  • Difficulty or straining to urinate: This can include frequent urination attempts, small amounts of urine being produced, or difficulty initiating the urine stream.
  • Blood in the urine: Enlarged prostate can cause irritation or inflammation in the urinary tract, leading to blood in the urine.
  • Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen: Dogs with an enlarged prostate may exhibit signs of pain or discomfort in the abdominal area.
  • Changes in behavior or activity level: Dogs with an enlarged prostate may show signs of lethargy, decreased appetite, or changes in their normal behavior.
  • Enlarged or firm abdomen: In some cases, the enlarged prostate may be palpable as a firm mass in the abdominal area.

An enlarged prostate in dogs can vary in severity depending on the underlying cause. In intact (non-neutered) male dogs, a benign prostate enlargement known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common and generally non-severe condition. It typically occurs in older, intact male dogs and may cause mild to moderate symptoms such as difficulty urinating or increased frequency of urination. BPH is usually manageable with appropriate medical treatment.

On the other hand, an enlarged prostate can also be associated with more serious conditions such as prostatitis (inflammation or infection of the prostate) or prostate cancer. These conditions can cause more severe symptoms and require more aggressive treatment approaches.

The spread or progression of prostate cancer in dogs can vary depending on several factors, including the stage of cancer, the tumor’s characteristics, and the dog’s overall health. However, prostate cancer in dogs typically tends to be slow-growing compared to other types of cancer.

In some cases, prostate cancer may be localized and not have spread beyond the prostate gland. However, if the cancer is more advanced, it can spread to nearby tissues and organs, such as the lymph nodes, bladder, or bones.

The prognosis for prostate disease in dogs can vary depending on the specific condition and its severity. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) generally has a good prognosis with appropriate management and treatment. Prostatitis, which is prostate inflammation, can often be treated successfully with medications and has a favorable prognosis if diagnosed and treated promptly.

On the other hand, prostate cancer has a more guarded prognosis, as it can be challenging to treat, particularly if it has spread beyond the prostate. The prognosis for prostate cancer in dogs depends on various factors, such as the cancer stage, metastasis (spread to other organs), the response to treatment, and the dog’s overall health.

In male dogs, the prostate gland is located just below the rectum, surrounding the urethra. It is situated in the pelvic area, near the base of the bladder. The size and shape of the prostate can vary depending on the dog’s age and whether or not it is affected by any conditions such as enlargement or cancer.

Several diseases can affect a dog’s prostate. Some common conditions include:

  • Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common prostate disorder in intact (non-neutered) male dogs. It involves the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, typically seen in older dogs.
  • Prostatitis: Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate gland, which a bacterial infection or other factors can cause. It can lead to pain, swelling, difficulty urinating, and systemic signs of illness.
  • Prostatic Abscess: This is a severe infection within the prostate gland that can result from untreated prostatitis. It can cause significant discomfort, pain, and systemic illness.
  • Prostate Cancer: While less common than the other conditions, prostate cancer can affect dogs. It typically occurs in older dogs and can cause symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, pain, weight loss, and general signs of illness.

It’s important to consult a veterinarian if you suspect any issues with your dog’s prostate, as proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing these conditions effectively.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this veterinary website is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for any concerns or questions regarding the health and well-being of your pet. This website does not claim to cover every possible situation or provide exhaustive knowledge on the subjects presented. The owners and contributors of this website are not responsible for any harm or loss that may result from the use or misuse of the information provided herein.

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