Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being.
Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion. Have a question? Send it in here! 
Help! My Dogs Erection Gets Stuck!
“Dexter, my seven-year-old Yorkie cross, has been neutered, but he constantly licks himself and has a sexual reaction; his penis comes out, but doesn’t go all the way back in. And each time my husband has to help him by manually doing it. We just don’t know what to do.“ – Ruth
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Hi Ruth,
What you’re describing is something we do see in neutered males, and it can feel worrying, especially when the penis does not return fully on its own. Even after neutering, some dogs retain learned sexual behaviors or respond to stimulation such as stress, excitement, or even skin irritation. However, frequent licking combined with the penis remaining exposed suggests there may also be a physical component, such as inflammation of the prepuce, irritation from allergies, or a condition called paraphimosis, where the penis cannot retract normally.
When your husband is manually helping, he is essentially providing first aid, but this should not be needed on a repeated basis. It is important not to rely on frequent manual repositioning alone, as the tissue can become dry, swollen, or irritated over time. Keeping the exposed tissue moist with a sterile, water-based lubricant can help protect it in the moment. At the same time, the persistent licking suggests there may be underlying irritation or discomfort that should be addressed at its source, whether related to the skin, infection, or anatomy. A veterinary examination is recommended so the underlying cause can be identified and treated appropriately.
In the meantime, preventing licking is helpful, as it can perpetuate the cycle, so using a soft protective collar temporarily can reduce further irritation. If at any point the penis remains out and becomes dark, swollen, or dry and cannot be gently repositioned, that becomes urgent because the tissue can lose blood supply. Addressing this early is the best way to keep Dexter comfortable and avoid complications, and most cases improve well once the underlying cause is identified and treated.
I hope this helps!
Dr. Paola
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I Need Help Managing the Puppy Biting Stage!
“How do I manage the difficult/biting barking extremes at dawn and dusk with my 11-week-old Bernadoddle (Bernese Mountain dog & poodle mix) pup? So far, I’ve had to put Tuxedo in his area for 10 minutes. Though it starts up again once he is out.“ – Beverly
Dear Beverly,
What you are describing is very typical for an 11-week-old puppy, especially at dawn and dusk when energy naturally peaks, much like a toddler who suddenly becomes overtired and impulsive at the end of the day. At this age, biting and barking are not signs of defiance, but normal exploratory and play behaviors combined with limited impulse control. Saying “no” or using brief confinement often does not teach the puppy what to do instead, so the behavior simply resumes once he is released.
The most effective approach is to redirect and guide rather than correct. When Tuxedo becomes mouthy or starts barking, calmly interrupt by offering an appropriate outlet, such as a chew toy or a short, structured play session. If he is too aroused to engage appropriately, that often signals he needs a nap, since overtired puppies can behave much like overstimulated children. Building a consistent routine with planned rest periods, gentle enrichment, and brief training sessions can prevent these peaks from escalating. Teaching simple cues like “sit” or an attention cue and rewarding calm behavior gives him a clear alternative, helping him learn how to regulate himself.
Management is just as important as training at this stage. Limiting freedom during high-energy times, using safe confinement proactively rather than as a reaction, and ensuring he has appropriate outlets for chewing and play will reduce frustration. If the biting becomes intense or difficult to interrupt, at Pangovet, we can help tailor a plan. Don’t worry, with consistency and guidance, this phase is very much temporary and part of normal development.
Sincerely,
Dr. Paola
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