The inability to completely protrude the penis is called phimosis. The inability to completely retract the penis, alternatively, is called paraphimosis. The causes of each of these conditions can vary, and veterinary intervention may be required if the problem persists. These conditions may be more likely in small dogs, though it can be seen in all breed types. While this can occur at any age, it typically occurs in dogs that are younger than 1 year of age. Paraphimosis usually occurs after the dog has an erection, when the skin at the preputial orifice (the space between the prepuce and glans penis) becomes inverted and traps the penis, keeping it from retracting.

Phimosis (the inability to protrude the penis) and paraphimosis (the inability to retract the penis) are conditions sometimes seen in male dogs. Symptoms may include licking of the penis (due to discomfort), trouble when trying to copulate, trouble urinating, and swelling around the penis.

If there are no other symptoms or problems, a physical exam may be the only required diagnostic test. In the event of other symptoms, additional tests may be required, including:

In cases of phimosis, treatment is only important if the dog is used for breeding, though castration may be considered. Paraphimosis treatments typically require lubrication or other techniques to return the penis to its sheath. Prognosis is good in most cases.

Treatment depends largely on the cause of the paraphimosis. Possible treatments include:

Recovery and management will vary slightly based on the underlying causes and severity, but typically treatment is fairly simple and a full recovery is possible. In most cases, the recovery period is quick, though this can vary if surgical intervention is required.