How do I understand the sex of a puppy? - briefly
To determine the sex of a puppy, examine the genital area. Male puppies have a visible penis and scrotum, while female puppies have a smaller, less noticeable vulva.
How do I understand the sex of a puppy? - in detail
To determine the sex of a puppy, you need to examine its external genitalia carefully. Here's how you can do it:
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Lift the Tail: Gently lift the puppy's tail up and away from its body. This will give you a clear view of the area between the hind legs.
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Observe the Genitals: Look at the area where the puppy's back legs meet its belly. In male puppies, you should see a small, oval-shaped opening or slit at the base of the tail. This is the penis sheath and the tip of the penis may protrude slightly. In female puppies, there will be a smaller, round opening that looks like a dot. This is the vulva.
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Distance Between Openings: Another way to differentiate is by looking at the distance between the anus (the small hole where feces come out) and the genital opening. In male puppies, these two openings are close together, usually about a finger's width apart. In female puppies, the vulva is located further forward, often closer to the belly button.
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Check for Testicles: If the puppy is old enough (usually after 6 weeks), you may be able to feel the testicles in male puppies by gently squeezing the scrotum just below the penis sheath. Be very careful not to squeeze too hard as this can cause discomfort.
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Consult a Veterinarian: If you're still unsure, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian. They have the training and experience to determine the sex of your puppy accurately.