Definition of Cryptorchidism
Cryptorchidism is the physical absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum of a dog by 6 months of age.
How Cryptorchidism Affects Dogs
The testes are in the abdomen during fetal development. They normally descend into the scrotum by the time a male puppy is 6 to 8 weeks old. Sometimes, one or both testicles are retained in the abdomen and do not descend properly as a puppy matures. Responsible breeders check male puppies for this condition before placing them in their forever homes. Cryptorchidism is rarely painful. Cryptorchid dogs often exhibit exuberant male breeding behavior, including mounting and dog-aggression. They may be able to impregnate female dogs, depending upon the location of their retained testicle(s). While signs of cryptorchidism are normally mild or nonexistent, the condition does carry some risks. Retained testicles develop disease at a much higher rate than do normal testicles – including infection and cancer. They also are prone to twisting, or becoming “torsed”, which causes severe pain.
Causes of Canine Cryptorchidism
Retained testicles can occur in any male dog of any breed. There seems to be a strong genetic component to this condition. Otherwise, the cause is not known.
Preventing Retained Testicles in Dogs
Affected dogs should be neutered because of the hereditary contribution to this condition. Dogs sired by affected animals probably should be removed from the breeding population as well.
Special Notes
If you acquire a young male dog, be sure to ask the breeder whether both testicles have descended. And, when having your dog neutered, ask your veterinarian whether both testicles were removed.