Neuticles, introduced by Greg Miller in 1995, are fake testicles for dogs—designed purely for aesthetic reasons. Here’s more on these curious canine implants.
- Neuticles were born from the belief that dogs might feel odd post-neutering, much like their owners do.
- Though they won’t hurt dogs, Neuticles don’t offer any health benefits, making them a cosmetic-only choice.
- The product comes in various materials and sizes, with a significant price range from $159 to $700.
- The safety and ethical aspects of Neuticles are debated, but there’s no hard evidence of harm in over two decades.
Back in 1995, Greg Miller had a eureka moment with his bloodhound, Buck. Post-neutering, Miller couldn’t shake the feeling that Buck missed something crucial. So, he designed Neuticles—prosthetic testicles for dogs. While this sounds like a quirky invention, for some pet owners, it eases the guilt of neutering by preserving a dog’s “natural look.”
These intriguing implants serve no purpose beyond appearance. Made initially from hard plastic, they could sometimes make a funny “clunking” noise when dogs moved. Today, they’re crafted from silicone to avoid such mishaps. These come in various textured designs to minimize scar tissue, boasting a wide range of sizes fitting different breeds.
The cost of Neuticles can raise eyebrows, with basic models around $159, while fancier versions with features like ScarRetard® might set one’s wallet back $700. While they’re made from FDA-approved materials like polypropylene, the Neuticles themselves aren’t FDA-approved. Yet, no adverse side effects have been reported in 20 years, raising questions about their necessity.
Do dogs feel happier with these faux add-ons? Well, there’s no scientific backing for that. Some owners just feel better, thinking their dogs will too. It’s all about anthropomorphism—the idea of attributing human feelings to our pets. Interestingly, Neuticles might encourage more people to neuter their dogs, reducing strays. However, not everyone agrees—like in the UK, where the practice is deemed ethically questionable.
In the end, Neuticles are not a need for dogs. They aren’t even aware of them. For some, these prosthetics bring peace of mind knowing their pet looks unchanged. But remember, dogs can lead full lives without this cosmetic touch-up.
So, while Neuticles might provide a chuckle or two, they’re more about human comfort than canine necessity.
