Vet Guide to Cryptorchidism in Dogs 🐶⚠️

Vet Guide to Cryptorchidism in Dogs 2025 🐶⚠️

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Cryptorchidism occurs when one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum by 6–16 weeks of age. It’s a genetic trait, common in small and toy breeds (e.g., Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Schnauzer, Chihuahua, Sheltie, Husky). Undescended testes may remain abdominal, inguinal, or just beneath the skin.

📍 Why It Matters

• Sterility: Bilateral cases lead to infertility; unilateral cases may reduce sperm production.
• Cancer Risk: Cryptorchid dogs are ~10–14× more likely to develop testicular tumors (Sertoli cell tumors, seminomas).
• Torsion Risk: Increased chance of spermatic cord twisting, resulting in acute abdominal pain.
• Feminization Syndrome: Estrogen-producing tumors cause signs like symmetrical alopecia, mammary enlargement, and prostate changes.

👀 Recognizing the Condition

• Absence of one/both testicles in the scrotum by 8–16 weeks of age.
• Non-painful unless torsion occurs, then may show abdominal pain, vomiting.
• Signs of feminization (esp. with Sertoli cell tumors): hair loss, nipple enlargement, abnormal urination.

🔬 Diagnostics

• Scrotal palpation—inguinal or subcutaneous testicles may be felt.
• Abdominal ultrasound identifies undescended testes and size/texture abnormalities.
• Hormone testing (hCG/GnRH stimulation) may help distinguish cryptorchid from neutered.
• CT scans may locate intra-abdominal testes in complex cases (e.g., suspected torsion, tumors).

💊 Treatment: Surgical Removal

• Neuter both testes: Removes risk of cancer and torsion; prevents genetic transmission.
• Surgical approach: Inguinal or abdominal incision depending on testicular location; removal of normal and retained gonad.
• Post-op care: Pain control, limited activity, incision monitoring, e-collar use, and suture follow-up.
• Prognosis: Excellent with routine neuter; early surgery greatly reduces complications.

🌳 Breeding & Genetics

• Inherited trait—should never be bred.
• Exclude affected males—and ideally carriers—from breeding programs.
• Advocate for screening littermates and parents in high-risk breeds.

✅ Dr Houston’s Vet Tips

• 🐾 Check scrotal development at each puppy exam until 16 weeks.
• 📄 Use ultrasound for nonpalpable cryptorchid testes prior to surgery planning.
• ✂️ Always remove both testes—don’t leave one intact to preserve fertility.
• 📝 Educate owners on higher cancer/torsion risks and breeding implications.
• 🔄 Schedule follow-up to ensure recovery and monitor for complications.

If your dog has undescended testes or shows abdominal pain, swelling, or signs of feminization—book a consult via the AskAVet.com app. Prevent complications and ensure lifelong health. 🐾❤️