My Dog’s Balls Are Red And Irritated After Grooming

Red, irritated balls after grooming are usually caused by clipper burn: the scrotum has very thin, sensitive skin, and close clipping, hot clipper blades or a small nick can leave it red and itchy, much like razor burn. Shampoo residue and your dog licking the area can make it worse. Mild clipper burn usually settles within a few days if you keep the area clean and stop your dog from licking it.

You're not alone – plenty of owners notice it after a trip to the groomer. Read on for the causes, how to soothe the skin, and when to call the vet.

How Concerned Should You Be?

Luckily, your dog having irritated testicles isn’t too much of a safety concern. Pet owners are naturally concerned when anything is out of the norm, but this is usually not an indicator of a serious health problem. In most cases, the irritation is temporary and will go away on its own.

However, if you notice that your dog’s testicles are swollen, painful or have discharge, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away. These could be signs of a more serious issue, such as an infection, an injury or (rarely) a twisted testicle, which is an emergency.

What are the causes of Testicle Irritation in Dogs?

There are a few different things that could cause your dog’s testicles to become irritated after grooming.

The most common is simply the process of shaving or clipping their fur. Clipping very close to the skin, using a blade that has heated up, or going over the same spot several times can leave the thin skin of the scrotum raw and red. This is often called clipper burn. In some cases, this can also cause an allergic reaction to the shampoo or other products that were used during the grooming process. If your dog has never been shaved before, they may also be experiencing some discomfort due to the new sensation. Clipping around the rear end can also lead to scooting, which we cover in dog scooting or licking butt after grooming.

Another cause of irritation is a skin infection. This can happen if your dog has a small cut or scrape that gets infected, often because they keep licking it. Signs include increasing redness, swelling, pus or crusts, and a bad smell.

Licking deserves its own mention: an itchy dog will lick the area, and constant licking keeps the skin moist and irritated, which can turn a mild clipper burn into a sore, infected spot.

Finally, your dog may be experiencing testicle irritation due to dry skin. This is more common in the winter months when the air is dryer and there is less moisture in the coat. If you notice that your dog’s skin is dry and flaky, they may be more susceptible to irritation after grooming.

How to Prevent Testicle Irritation

There are a few things that you can do to help prevent testicle irritation after grooming. First, make sure that you are using the right products. If your dog has sensitive skin, use a hypoallergenic shampoo and avoid any perfumes or dyes. You should also rinse the area well after shampooing to remove any soap residue.

Second, take your time when grooming your dog. Avoid rushing through the process and be careful not to nick or cut their skin. If you do accidentally cut them, make sure to clean the wound immediately and apply a pet-safe antibacterial ointment. Call your vet if the cut is deep, keeps bleeding or doesn't start healing within a few days.

Finally, consider using a grooming powder or spray. These products can help to soothe the skin and reduce irritation. You can find them at most pet stores or online. And if your dog goes to a groomer, it's fine to ask them to leave the fur around the genitals a little longer or to trim it with scissors instead of clipping close.