Identifying a puppy's gender is important: You do not want to end up with a dog of the sex you didn't want because someone told you wrong. This is crucial if you already have a dog and do not want to add another whose gender may cause problems.
Step 1
Lay the puppy on its back carefully on your lap or other stable surface, cradling its head and body in your hand.
Step 2
Locate the umbilical cord stump. It will be in the middle of the dog's belly. Depending on the pup's age, it may be difficult to find; it may appear as a small dot.
Step 3
Look in a straight line down from the umbilical stump toward the dog's back legs. Look for a small raised area, almost like a tiny button, approximately 1/4 inch below the umbilical stump. This is a penis. Your puppy is male.
Step 4
Look between the dog's hind legs if you found no penis bump on the belly. There will be a small, leaf shaped area with a slender vertical opening. This is the vulva, indicating a female puppy.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.
References
Warnings
- Use caution when taking a young puppy away from his mother for any reason. If she is not comfortable, she might bite you.
- Determine the dog's sex as quickly as possible and place the puppy back on his stomach: Being on his back is uncomfortable.