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Why is my dog lethargic with yellow discharge and peeing more?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 18 lbs

My dog has yellow gunk on his willy as below. He has also been a little lethargic, wanting to go out to pee more often and low grade occasionally whiny. It’s also super hot here though! Is this normal or cause for concern? He’s peeing and pooping normally maybe a little on the slow side to eat

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 26th, 2018

The yellow discharge you are seeing from Scrappy's penis may be smegma. It actually comes from the penile sheath and is normal. Because it's super hot where you live, I would not be surprised that it would make him a little more lethargic than usual. He may be wanting to pee more because he's drinking more due to the heat. In addition, with it being very hot, that would make him slower to eat. I would keep an eye on him for now. Make sure he always has access to cool water, and keep him in a dark cool room so he doesn't overheat. If he becomes more lethargic, stops eating, you see an excess amount of discharge from his penis, and/or his bathroom habits change, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. Best of luck, I hope this helps.

25Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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