Normal Male
	Normal male
	Hypospadias is a defect in the location of the male urinary orifice that typically accompanies syndromes associated with incomplete masculinization. It is a rare congenital condition in which there is incomplete formation of the penile urethra. The urethral opening is identified on the ventral aspect of the penis anywhere from the tip to the perineal region. There is usually underdevelopment of the penis and the prepuce may be incomplete ventrally. The scrotum may be divided.   Note that the sheath opening on this male appears more like a canine vulva at the base. The opening is quite enlarged from a normal male.
	Hypospadias does not always affect normal urination. Surgery is not automatically required. Mildly affected dogs may be able to breed normally, however, recommendations for breeding are guarded. Inheritance appears to be familial.
	Note the unusual connective tissue on the exposed penis.
	Some dogs have urine scald dermatitis. If the penis is underdeveloped urine may pool in the prepuce. Abnormal preputial development may result in chronic exposure of the penis.