Male dogs, just like female dogs, have nipples. While female dogs use their nipples to feed puppies, male dogs’ nipples generally serve no functional purpose. Male dogs typically have between 8 to 10 nipples, similar to females. However, some male dogs can develop more than the average number of nipples. This article will focus on explaining why some male dogs can develop extra nipples, going over the typical nipple development and number in dogs, and providing tips for owners of male dogs with additional nipples.
Typical Number of Nipples
The typical number of nipples on male and female dogs is 8 to 10. However, the exact number can vary based on the dog’s breed and size. Smaller dogs tend to have fewer nipples, while larger breeds may have more. For example, Chihuahuas usually have just 2 to 3 nipples, while Great Danes often have 12 to 16.
Female dogs usually have 8 to 10 nipples in a single row along their abdomen. The nipples develop during gestation and become functional after giving birth when they produce milk to feed puppies. Even if a female dog doesn’t have a litter, she will still have this typical nipple development.
[Source: https://www.caninejournal.com/how-many-nipples-do-dogs-have/]
Nipple Development
A puppy’s nipples start to develop in the womb before birth. The nipples first appear on the two milk lines that run along each side of a puppy’s torso. Most male and female puppies initially develop up to 5 pairs of nipples along each milk line, for a total of 10 nipples. However, the nipples between the top 2 pairs normally recede before birth, leaving most puppies with 8 total nipples – 4 pairs.
According to Dogster, “A fetus starts out fairly neutrally, with the same equipment needed to develop into either sex. At around 6 to 8 weeks of gestation, sex hormones start to direct the fetus to develop as male or female. In females, these hormones prompt full development of all the nipples. But in males, they likely activate inhibitors that suppress nipple growth between the top two pairs on each side.” (source)
So while female puppies keep all their nipples, male puppies lose the middle 2 pairs during their development in the womb. This nipple suppression is controlled by the male sex hormones. As a result, most male puppies are born with 4 pairs of nipples – the standard 1 pair of nipples on the chest and 3 pairs on the abdomen.
Male Dog Nipples
Male dogs normally have between 8-10 nipples, arranged in two rows on their abdomen. While this is the average number, some male dogs can have fewer nipples or more. In fact, it’s not uncommon for male dogs to have up to 12 nipples.
According to the American Kennel Club (https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/male-dogs-nipples/), male dog nipples are often “underdeveloped” compared to female dogs. They may appear small and flat against the skin. The nipples themselves are usually a pink or black color. Some male dogs’ nipples may appear enlarged or swollen, but this is not necessarily cause for concern.
While female dogs’ nipples develop and change during gestation and nursing, male dogs’ nipples remain mostly inactive. They do not undergo physical changes like a female dog’s nipples do. The male dog’s extra nipples are non-functioning and do not secrete milk.
Why Extra Nipples Occur
There are a few reasons why some male dogs develop extra nipples beyond the typical number.
One of the most common causes is a genetic predisposition. Some dog breeds are prone to having supernumerary nipples, including Dobermans, Poodles, Beagles, and Schnauzers (Source). The genes responsible for nipple development may cause additional nipples to form in these breeds.
Hormonal influences may also lead to extra nipples. Since nipples develop in the embryo stage, any disruption to hormones or the endocrine system could impact nipple formation. Exposure to certain chemicals while in the womb has been linked to additional nipples.
In some cases, trauma, infections, or tissue damage around the mammary region can stimulate cells to proliferate and lead to accessory nipple growth. Benign masses like cysts or tumors have also been associated with supernumerary nipples (Source).
While the root causes are not fully understood, experts believe a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors contribute to extra nipple development in dogs.
Potential Issues
Extra nipples generally do not cause any medical problems for male dogs on their own. The nipples themselves are usually just cosmetic and non-functional. However, in rare cases, extra nipples can be prone to issues like infections, irritation, and swelling, especially if they are located in areas where they are easily rubbed or scratched.
One potential problem to watch out for with abnormal nipples is mastitis, which is an infection of the mammary gland. Mastitis is most common in female dogs who are nursing, but it can occasionally occur in males as well. Signs of mastitis include swelling, redness, pain, and discharge from the nipple. It requires prompt veterinary treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories (Source 1).
Another possible issue is the development of tumors or cysts associated with the abnormal nipple tissue. Mammary tumors and cysts are more prevalent in unspayed female dogs, but they can develop in male dogs too. These lumps would require surgical removal and biopsy to check for cancer (Source 2).
While problematic, incidents of infections, tumors, and other issues arising directly from extra male dog nipples seem to be relatively uncommon. But owners should monitor their dog’s nipples and contact their vet if any abnormalities are observed.
Surgical Removal
Male dog nipple removal surgery is typically not recommended in normal cases, even if extra nipples are present. Unnecessary surgery can pose risks of complications such as pain, infection, and delayed healing. Radical mastectomy, which involves removing mammary glands and lymph nodes, is performed in female dogs to treat breast cancer but may cause serious side effects. Surgical removal of benign nipples in male dogs provides little medical benefit and poses risks for the dog’s recovery and wellbeing. Instead of nipple removal, vets usually recommend just monitoring the nipples at home and scheduling vet checks to screen for any concerning changes over time.
However, in some cases surgery is warranted – if the nipples become injured, infected, or develop tumors or cysts. Regional mastectomy may be performed to remove abnormal mammary tissue. The specific technique depends on factors like tumor size, location, and spread. In advanced cancer cases, more aggressive radical mastectomy may be necessary. But for normal extra nipples, surgical removal should be avoided unless medically necessary due to complications.
Owner Tips
If your male dog has extra nipples, here are some tips for owners:
Keep the area clean. Gently wipe any extra nipples daily with a warm, wet cloth to remove dirt and debris. Dry thoroughly after wiping.
Watch for signs of infection. Extra nipples can be prone to mastitis, an infection of the mammary glands. Signs include swelling, redness, pain, and discharge. See a vet promptly if you notice any of these.
Protect extra nipples. Some owners find success using moleskin or medical tape to cover extra nipples. This prevents friction and irritation from your dog’s surroundings.
Consider surgical removal. If extra nipples are becoming irritated or infected frequently, discuss surgical removal with your vet. This eliminates the nipples and prevents future issues.
Redirect licking/chewing. Dogs may lick or chew at irritated nipples. Use an Elizabethan collar and provide plenty of chew toys to discourage this behavior.
Monitor for cancer. While rare, extra nipples can develop cancer. Check them frequently and have any abnormalities tested by your vet.
Keep your dog at a healthy weight. Overweight dogs are more prone to skin folds that can irritate extra nipples. Maintain a trim physique to avoid this.
When to See a Vet
In most cases, extra nipples are harmless and do not require veterinary attention. However, it’s a good idea to point them out to your veterinarian during your dog’s annual wellness exam so they can be noted in your dog’s medical record.
You should make a veterinary appointment sooner if you notice any of the following changes around the extra nipples:
- The area seems painful, swollen, or inflamed
- There is redness, bleeding, or discharge
- The tissue appears abnormal or enlarged
- A growth or mass develops
According to veterinarians, these signs may indicate an underlying medical issue requiring treatment, such as an infection, cyst, or tumor. It’s important to have your vet examine any nipple that looks abnormal or changes unexpectedly. [1]
Your vet can determine if biopsy, removal, or other treatment is recommended. Catching problems early improves the chances of successful treatment. So don’t wait if you notice your dog’s extra nipples changing in size, appearance, or causing discomfort.
Conclusion
In summary, male dogs do have nipples. The typical number is between 4-10 nipples, with 8 being the most common number. Nipples develop in the womb and both male and female puppies will have them. While they serve no functional purpose in males, they remain as vestigial anatomical features passed down genetically. Extra nipples are not usually a cause for concern in male dogs. However, owners should monitor their dog’s nipples for signs of infection or mammary tumors. If any abnormalities are detected, take your dog to the vet for evaluation. Overall, the presence of nipples is a normal part of male canine anatomy.
