Dog's Missing Testicles: Possible Causes and Solutions

What is Cryptorchidism?

Cryptorchidism is a medical term that refers to a condition where one or both testicles in male dogs do not descend into the scrotum. In puppies, the testicles typically begin to descend around the age of two months. At birth, these little guys are not yet located in the scrotum; instead, they are waiting nearby, close to the kidneys, for the right moment to make their descent.

Some dogs will have their testicles descend into the scrotum around two months of age, while others might not appear until around six months. The timing can vary depending on the breed and size of the dog, with most breeds seeing the descent between two and six months.

As mentioned earlier, cryptorchidism is a genetic disorder caused by a recessive autosomal gene. Certain breeds are more prone to this condition, including Poodles, Boxers, German Shepherds, Weimaraners, English Bulldogs, and many small breeds like Chihuahuas, Mini Dachshunds, Yorkies, and Maltese, among others.

Approximately 75% of cryptorchid cases involve one undescended testicle, while 25% are more severe with both testicles remaining in the wrong place.

A study in Italy on the autopsies of 232 dogs found that 27% had one or more testicular tumors.

Where is Cryptorchidism Located?

Cryptorchidism is usually found in the abdominal and inguinal areas of dogs. In simple terms, the testicles are on the track they should have followed down into the scrotum but have stopped short.

In some cases, the undescended testicles may be halfway between the scrotum and the inguinal area, as if they've paused halfway down and are reluctant to continue.

As dogs age, you may be able to see a small lump in the abdomen, which is the location of the cryptorchidism. In some cases, the condition is more subtle and may only be detected with the help of professional equipment.

Testicular cancer is the second most common cancer in male dogs, and dogs with cryptorchidism have a 13% higher chance of developing testicular cancer than healthy dogs.

What Does Cryptorchidism Mean for Male Dogs?

Research by the American Veterinary Medical Association found that cryptorchidism is most commonly associated with a tumor called Sertoli cell tumor, which secretes estrogen and can lead to numerous skin and hair issues in male dogs.

Despite its unappealing nature, dogs with cryptorchidism can still be interested in females during estrus. Dogs with both testicles not descending usually have nonviable sperm, while those with one undescended testicle have sperm with reduced vitality but still capable of fertilization. This is because the retained testicle can cause sperm to become nonviable due to the higher abdominal temperature.

Most veterinarians believe that six months is the last chance for a dog's cryptorchidism to correct itself. If the testicles have not descended by this time, surgery is recommended, although this is not an absolute rule. Some large breeds may have their testicles descend as late as one year.

What Are the Dangers of Cryptorchidism?

This genetic disorder can lead to other diseases, often only discovered in the later stages. Besides being more susceptible to testicular cancer, cryptorchidism can also cause a condition known as testicular torsion, which can cause sudden abdominal pain in dogs. If left untreated, this pain can worsen over time and may lead to testicular cancer.

So, What Should You Do If Your Dog Has Cryptorchidism?

The answer is straightforward: surgery. Consult with a professional veterinarian for the best timing for the procedure.

The primary cause of cryptorchidism is the previously mentioned recessive autosomal gene, which can skip generations or manifest in every generation.