Cryptorchidism is a condition where one or both testicles fail to move down into the scrotum after birth.
It is an inherited condition, meaning it is passed from parent dogs to their puppies through their genes.
Retained testicles can pose serious health risks, including a much higher chance of testicular cancer and the possibility of twisting within the abdomen, which is a painful and potentially life-threatening emergency.
In most dogs, both testicles are in place by two months of age. Occasionally the process takes slightly longer. However, if one or both have not descended by six months, it is very unlikely they ever will. If a puppy’s testicles have not both descended by six months of age, surgical removal is usually recommended.
A retained testicle may remain inside the abdomen or become lodged in the inguinal canal. These retained testicles are at significantly increased risk of becoming cancerous. They are also more prone to torsion, which means twisting on their blood supply. Torsion causes sudden, severe pain and requires urgent surgery.
Dogs with cryptorchidism have a much higher risk of developing testicular cancer compared to dogs with normally descended testicles.
Cryptorchidism is a hereditary condition. It is passed on genetically, which is why affected dogs should not be bred from.
Breeds reported to be more commonly affected include:
However, any breed of dog can develop the condition.
If both testicles are not present in the scrotum by six months of age, cryptorchidism is the most likely explanation.
In adult dogs where neuter status is unclear, blood tests can sometimes be used to measure hormone levels and help determine whether testicular tissue is still present.
Your vet may also use imaging, such as ultrasound, to locate a retained testicle before surgery.
Surgical removal of retained testicles is strongly advised to prevent future complications.
The procedure depends on where the testicle is located:
This surgery is usually more complex than a routine castration and may take longer, particularly if the retained testicle is difficult to locate.
If one testicle is retained and the other is in the scrotum, most vets recommend removing both. The retained one is removed to eliminate health risks, and the normal one is removed to prevent breeding and passing the condition on.
In some cases, owners may choose to delay removal of the normally descended testicle for developmental reasons. This decision should always be discussed carefully with your vet to weigh up the risks and benefits.
Following surgery, careful home care is important.
Pain relief
Your dog will usually go home with anti-inflammatory medication to keep them comfortable.
Rest
Activity should be restricted for around seven to ten days. Only very short on-lead walks are recommended until healing is complete.
Wound protection
A buster collar or protective device may be needed to prevent licking or chewing at the surgical site.
Follow up
Your vet may arrange a post-operative check to ensure the wound is healing properly. Non dissolvable stitches, if used, are typically removed 7 to 14 days after surgery.
If you notice swelling, discharge, lethargy or any signs of discomfort, please contact your vet promptly.
Because cryptorchidism is inherited, the only effective way to reduce its occurrence is to avoid breeding from affected dogs.
Responsible breeding practices are essential to protect future generations.
By six months of age, both testicles should be clearly felt within the scrotum in an entire male dog.
Gently feel the scrotal sac. You should be able to identify two small, oval structures that move freely within it. If you cannot feel both, arrange a veterinary check.
If your adult dog’s neuter status is uncertain, your vet can help determine this.
Seek veterinary advice if:
Early advice allows appropriate planning and reduces future health risks.
Surgery for a cryptorchid dog is typically more expensive than routine castration because the procedure is more involved and may require abdominal surgery.
If you’re able to, consider pet insurance while your dog is young and healthy to help with unexpected illness or injury. If your dog becomes unwell, talk openly with your vet about the options, the likely costs, and what feels manageable for you. Together, you can tailor a plan that’s right for your dog and your situation.
If you have concerns about your dog’s development or reproductive health, contact your local veterinary practice for advice.
Yes. If one testicle is present and functional, the dog can still sire puppies but, as cryptorchidism is passed on genetically, affected dogs should not be bred from.
In most cases, a ‘missing’ testicle is present but retained inside the body rather than absent altogether.
No. Surgical repositioning is not recommended due to the increased cancer risk and the hereditary nature of the condition.
There is no reliable or recommended medical treatment to encourage descent once it has failed to occur naturally.
