Dogs

why do male dogs have nipples


Why Do Male Dogs Have Nipples?

Have you ever noticed that male dogs have nipples like they do on their female counterparts? This can seem quite strange and confusing, so we are here to explain why male dogs have nipples like females do.

Biological Explanation

The answer has to do with male and female embryos. During the early stages of development, embryos of both genders have the same parts that will eventually become reproductive organs, so they both have nipples. In the course of further development, these parts differentiate and eventually only female embryos will form the mammary glands that grow and form the nipples associated with milk production.

The Purpose of Nipples in Male Dogs

Although male dogs do not nurse their young, their nipples still offer some important purpose. Nipples provide the male dog with a solid anchor point for the muscle that allows him to move his forelegs. In addition, the nipples can become slightly enlarged and help prevent infection by providing additional protection for the dog’s underbelly due to the skin and fur that cover them.

Different Types of Nipples in Male Dogs

Male dogs have three types of nipples:

  • Primary: the nipples that grow during embryonic development
  • Secondary: located next to the primary nipples and begin to form in the first trimester of puppyhood
  • Tertiary: located in between the primary and secondary nipples and begin to form during the second trimester of puppyhood

Due to the presence of nipples, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the gender of a dog by simply looking at their underbelly. However, the presence of testicles in male dogs gives an indication of their gender.

Conclusion

You now know why male dogs have nipples! As we have seen, it has to do with embryonic development and their nipples can play an important role in providing protection and anchoring muscle. Although they are not used to feed, male dogs with nipples still have the same purpose as their female counterparts!

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