Did your dog just get neutered—but you’re still seeing what looks like testicles? It’s a common and often confusing observation for dog owners. You expected a smooth rear end post-surgery, yet those familiar bulges are still there. What gives?
Before you worry that the surgery didn’t work, let’s unpack what’s actually happening. In most cases, it’s completely normal—and here’s why.
Why Does My Dog Still Look Like He Has Balls After Neutering?
It’s normal for a male dog to appear as if he still has testicles shortly after being neutered. This is usually due to post-operative swelling or the presence of an empty scrotal sac, which takes time to shrink and flatten out.
The testicles themselves are removed during the neuter procedure, but the scrotal sac (the pouch that held them) often remains unless it’s specifically removed in a cosmetic procedure called a scrotal ablation.
Here’s What You’re Likely Seeing:
- Swelling from the surgical site (normal for up to 7–10 days)
- Empty scrotum that looks full but is actually hollow
- Scar tissue or fluid buildup from healing
Over the course of a few weeks to a couple of months, this area typically flattens out as the body absorbs fluids and tissue contracts naturally.
Scrotal Ablation vs. Standard Neutering
In a typical neuter, the testicles are removed but the scrotal sac is left in place. This is the most common method used by vets because it’s less invasive, has fewer complications, and heals more quickly.
However, some owners opt for a scrotal ablation—a procedure in which the sac is removed entirely. This results in a smoother appearance immediately after healing, but it is more extensive and often reserved for medical reasons.
When Scrotal Ablation Might Be Recommended:
- Large or pendulous scrotum prone to trauma
- Infections, tumors, or medical concerns
- Bleeding issues post-neuter
- Owner preference for cosmetic reasons
How Long Does It Take for the “Balls” to Go Away?
Most dogs show visible reduction in scrotal size within 2 to 6 weeks after surgery. The timeline depends on your dog’s age, size, and individual healing rate.
Typical Healing Timeline:
| Time Since Neuter | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 0–3 days | Noticeable swelling and firmness; incision healing begins |
| 4–7 days | Swelling starts to reduce; scrotum may look empty but puffy |
| 2–4 weeks | Scrotum flattens noticeably; appearance improves |
| 4–8 weeks | Nearly full absorption and minimal visible pouch |
If you’re still seeing fullness or swelling after two months—or your dog seems uncomfortable—consult your vet to rule out complications.
Could My Dog Have Been Neutered Incorrectly?
In rare cases, an inexperienced or rushed surgical procedure could leave tissue behind, but this is highly unlikely with a licensed vet. If you’re genuinely concerned, a quick examination or ultrasound can confirm whether both testicles were properly removed.
Signs of a Surgical Issue:
- Unusual hardness in the scrotum beyond 10 days
- Ongoing licking, discomfort, or discharge
- Behavioral signs of intact hormones months after surgery
- One or both testicles not descended prior to surgery (cryptorchidism)
Dogs with retained testicles (inside the abdomen or groin) require a different surgical approach. If one testicle wasn’t located during the initial procedure, it may still be present internally and producing hormones.
Behavior After Neutering: Should He Still Act “Male”?
Many dog owners expect their male dog’s behavior to change immediately after neutering—but hormones can linger for weeks. If your neutered dog is still mounting, marking, or acting territorial, don’t panic. It can take 4 to 6 weeks or longer for testosterone to fully leave the body.
Common Behaviors That Can Persist Post-Neuter:
- Mounting or humping
- Territorial barking or marking
- Reactivity toward other dogs
- Increased arousal during play or walks
Behavior doesn’t change overnight just because of surgery. For lasting calmness and impulse control, training plays a huge role—especially in dogs that were already reactive or overstimulated before neutering.
Want to calm your dog down and reduce unwanted behaviors—regardless of hormones? Check out the free Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar. This expert-led training helps dogs settle faster, listen better, and become less reactive to triggers, no matter their age or background.
How to Help Your Dog Heal After Neuter Surgery
Proper aftercare can speed healing and minimize swelling that makes the scrotum look fuller than it really is. Follow your vet’s post-op instructions closely.
Post-Neuter Recovery Tips:
- Prevent licking with a cone or recovery suit
- Limit running, jumping, or rough play for at least 10 days
- Apply a cold compress (gently) in the first 24–48 hours if swelling is pronounced
- Monitor the incision site for redness, discharge, or odor
- Keep the area clean and dry—no baths for 10–14 days
As the swelling goes down and the incision heals, the “balls” you see will gradually shrink and disappear in most dogs.
Can the Scrotum Stay Permanently Swollen?
In some cases, the scrotum may not completely flatten, especially in older dogs or large breeds with stretched skin. This doesn’t mean the neuter failed—it’s just a cosmetic effect of age, skin elasticity, or weight.
However, if your dog’s scrotum becomes larger, red, or painful weeks after surgery, it may be a sign of:
- Infection
- Hematoma (blood pooling under the skin)
- Seroma (fluid buildup)
These are typically treatable but require a vet’s attention.
When to Call Your Vet
While it’s normal for neutered dogs to look like they still have “balls” shortly after surgery, call your vet if you notice:
- Severe or growing swelling after 7–10 days
- Redness, discharge, or foul smell at the incision site
- Lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting
- Signs of pain or constant licking
Most dogs heal without complication, but when in doubt—it’s always better to ask.
Conclusion
If your dog still looks like he has testicles after being neutered, don’t worry—it’s usually just post-op swelling or leftover skin from the scrotum. Over time, it will flatten out and become less noticeable. True complications are rare, and most dogs heal beautifully with proper care.
And remember: Neutering may reduce hormonal behaviors, but it doesn’t fix reactivity or stress-based habits. If your dog still shows signs of overexcitement, leash pulling, or barking, help him settle with the free Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar. It’s packed with expert strategies that promote calm behavior—no harsh corrections needed.