Understanding Cryptorchidism in Dogs – Causes & Care

Cryptorchidism is when one or both testicles don’t move into a dog’s scrotum. Normally, this happens by two months old. Sometimes, it may take longer. The testicle that doesn’t move down is often in the belly or inguinal canal. This condition affects about 1-3% of all dogs, making it quite common.

It tends to run in families. Certain dogs like Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, and French Poodles often have it. You’ll also find it in Siberian Huskies, Miniature Schnauzers, Shetland Sheepdogs, Chihuahuas, German Shepherds, Dachshunds, and short-nosed breeds.

The best treatment is to remove the undescended testicle(s) through surgery. This prevents any problems the undescended testicle might cause. It also stops the dog from passing this condition to puppies.

Key Takeaways:

• Cryptorchidism affects approximately 1-3% of all dogs¹
• Testicles usually descend around 6-16 weeks of age²
• When neither testicle descends, the dog is typically sterile²
• Cryptorchidism is genetic and linked to the X chromosome²
• Breeds likely to have the cryptorchidism gene include Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, French Poodles, Siberian Huskies, Miniature Schnauzers, Shetland Sheepdogs, Chihuahuas, German Shepherds, Dachshunds, and Brachycephalic breeds²
• Expect to pay more overall for cryptorchidism surgeries due to additional testing, increased surgical time, additional surgical sites, and the potential need for multiple surgeries²
• Delaying neutering until 1 year of age is typically recommended for puppies with cryptorchidism²
• Recovery from neuter surgery for cryptorchid dogs is typically two weeks²
• The most common complications from surgery for cryptorchidism include hemorrhage, pain, swelling, surgical site splitting, discharging fluid, hypoglycemia, and hypothermia²
• The right testicle is more than twice as likely to be retained as the left testicle¹
• Toy breeds, such as toy Poodles, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers, may be at a higher risk for cryptorchidism¹
• The risk of developing testicular cancer is estimated to be at least ten times greater in dogs with cryptorchidism than in normal dogs¹

What is Cryptorchidism and How is it Diagnosed?

Cryptorchidism is a condition found often in dogs. It happens when one or both testicles don’t move into the scrotum. This usually takes place between 6-16 weeks of age for male dogs². If the testicles don’t descend, the condition is called cryptorchidism. This issue might lead to the dog being typically sterile, since sperm production needs a cooler place than the inside of the body².

To diagnose cryptorchidism, a vet does a physical check-up. If they can’t feel the testicles in the scrotum by two to four months old, it likely points to cryptorchidism. Sometimes, they might do an abdominal ultrasound or x-rays to find out where the testicle that hasn’t descended is. These tests aren’t always needed before deciding on surgery².

Cryptorchidism can affect one or both testicles. It’s more usual to find just one testicle has stayed inside, which is in about 75% of cases. The other 25% of dogs have both testicles not descending¹. Sometimes, a test called an hCG stimulation test is used. This test helps figure out if a dog is already neutered, which might change the surgery approach¹.

Figuring out cryptorchidism involves the vet doing a check-up and sometimes using special imaging tests. Finding the testicles early is key. This prevents future problems and helps plan the right surgery.

Causes and Prevalence of Cryptorchidism

Cryptorchidism is when one or both testicles don’t move into the scrotum, and it’s thought to be genetic (Causes of Cryptorchidism). Some dogs, like toy Poodles, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers, are more prone to it (Causes of Cryptorchidism). Mostly, 75% of cases are only one testicle, while 25% are both (Causes of Cryptorchidism).

The right testicle is often the one that doesn’t descend (Causes of Cryptorchidism).

Certain breeds show a high rate of cryptorchidism, pointing to genetics. But, we need more studies to understand it fully (Causes of Cryptorchidism). It’s crucial for breeders and dog owners to know about cryptorchidism’s risks (Causes of Cryptorchidism).

This awareness can guide breeding choices (Causes of Cryptorchidism).

Reference:³

Signs and Complications of Cryptorchidism

Cryptorchidism is when one or both testicles don’t move down into the scrotum². Usually, there are no clear signs or symptoms early on. If one testicle stays inside, it might look smaller than the other. If both testicles stay inside, the dog could become infertile². High body temperature can harm sperm production. So, it’s essential for dog owners to check their pets early and often.

There are serious risks if cryptorchidism isn’t treated². Spermatic cord torsion happens when the cord to the testicle twists, cutting off blood flow. This causes a lot of pain and can hurt the organs. Dogs with cryptorchidism are also much more likely to get testicular cancer¹. This cancer can show up in many ways, making early checks and treatment key.

Dog owners need to know these risks to keep their pets safe. Seeing a vet early is the best way to help dogs with cryptorchidism. Vets can offer advice and treatment options.

Complications of Cryptorchidism

1. Spermatic Cord Torsion: This condition causes intense belly pain and can harm the testicle. Quick treatment is crucial to avoid serious damage.

2. Increased Risk of Testicular Cancer: Cryptorchidism raises the chance of testicular cancer in dogs. It’s important for regular vet visits to find and treat tumors early.in Dogs”>

Complications of Cryptorchidism

1. Spermatic Cord Torsion: This involves the spermatic cord twisting, leading to severe pain and testicle damage. It’s critical to get help fast to stop worse problems.

2. Increased Risk of Testicular Cancer: Dogs with cryptorchidism face a higher risk of testicular cancer. Stay up-to-date with vet visits to catch and treat any tumors early.

Knowing about cryptorchidism helps dog owners take care of their pets¹. Fast medical help is crucial for dogs with this condition to stay healthy and happy.

Treatment Options for Cryptorchidism

When a dog has cryptorchidism, the best approach is neutering and taking out the retained testicle(s). It’s vital to do this to stop dogs with this genetic issue from breeding. It also lessens the chance of getting testicular cancer and other problems like testicular torsion. A surgery is needed to take out undescended testicles, ensuring the dog stays healthy.

If a dog has only one testicle retained, the vet will make two cuts to remove both testicles. But if both testicles haven’t come down and are in the inguinal canal or abdomen, more cuts may be needed for their removal.

It’s crucial to know that the only treatments for cryptorchidism in dogs are neutering and surgery to remove the undescended testicle(s). These steps deal with the immediate concern and also lower the chance of future health issues.

Risks and Considerations

There are risks involved with any surgery, including treating cryptorchidism in dogs. These include bleeding, pain, swelling, the surgical wound opening, fluid coming out, low blood sugar, and getting too cold². Talking to a vet about these risks is key. It helps you understand how the surgery might affect your dog’s health.

Resolving Infertility

Another thing to think about with cryptorchidism is that dogs with this issue often can’t have puppies. If neither testicle comes down, the dog usually can’t make sperm because of the higher temperature in the abdomen². Taking out these undescended testicles and neutering the dog not only stops future problems but also tackles infertility. This allows the dog to live a healthier and happier life.

Additional Testing and Recovery

In some situations, vets might want to do more tests to find the undescended testicle(s) and check the dog’s health. Techniques like an abdominal ultrasound or surgery to look inside can show where the testicles are hiding. This helps plan the surgery better and make sure no problematic tissue is left.

After being treated for cryptorchidism, dogs need about two weeks to get better². During this time, they should take it easy and stay away from the surgery area. Watching for signs of infection or other issues is important. It’s also crucial to follow what the vet says for the dog to heal well and stay healthy.

Breeds Prone to Cryptorchidism

² Statistical data extracted from [link 1]

Prognosis and Outcomes for Dogs with Cryptorchidism

Dogs with cryptorchidism have an excellent chance of recovery if they get surgery early. This way, they avoid complications and can live happy, healthy lives. Surgery removes the risk of testicular cancer and other issues from not treating cryptorchidism.

About 1-3% of all dogs have cryptorchidism because of certain genes¹. Most often, the undropped testicles are in the belly or near the groin. Some dog breeds, especially smaller or inbred ones, are more likely to have this issue⁴. Dogs with cryptorchidism got the condition from their parents who carry the genes⁴.

One big worry with cryptorchidism is the high chance of getting testicular cancer. Dogs with this condition are at least ten times more likely to get cancer there¹. Removing the undropped testicles, or orchidectomy, stops this risk. Taking out both testicles is best because it prevents cancer and other problems⁴.

Dogs with only one testicle that hasn’t dropped can still father puppies⁴. But, their ability to do so might not be certain. Research has looked into how these dogs can still be fertile after certain surgeries⁴.

The operation to fix cryptorchidism usually leads to great results. Dogs that get the surgery can lead normal, healthy lives free from the dangers of undropped testicles. Trying to treat cryptorchidism with medicine hasn’t worked well, so surgery is the best choice⁴. Interestingly, the right testicle is more often not dropped than the left one¹.

Beside cancer, cryptorchidism can lead to painful conditions like twists in the spermatic cord. Catching the problem early and fixing it with surgery is the best way to keep dogs safe and healthy.

Development and Genetics of Cryptorchidism

Cryptorchidism is when dog testicles don’t move down as they should. It might be linked to the X chromosome. When a dog’s dad has this condition, it’s more likely his pups will too. Some dog breeds, like Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, and German Shepherds, have a higher chance of passing on cryptorchidism⁵.

Normally, dog testicles drop between 6 and 16 weeks old. They’re pulled into place by a ligament called the gubernaculum². Mostly, if only one testicle drops, it’s the left one².

About 1-3% of dogs get cryptorchidism, especially tiny breeds. In most cases, just one testicle stays up. But sometimes, both don’t drop¹. The right testicle often gets stuck more than the left one¹.

The only fix for cryptorchidism is surgery. Vets suggest waiting until the dog is a year old to see if the testicles descend on their own². Still, this surgery can lead to bleeding, pain, and swelling².

Diagnosis and Testing for Cryptorchidism

To find out if a dog has cryptorchidism, vets look at the dog’s family history and check the scrotal sac and belly¹. They check these parts to see if they can feel the testicles. Sometimes, they suggest more tests to know for sure if the dog needs surgery to fix this.

Tests like hCG or GnRH might be done to understand the dog’s reproductive health and see if it’s neutered². These tests tell the difference between dogs with cryptorchidism and those that aren’t. Ultrasounds and surgery might be needed to find testicles that aren’t where they should be².

Ultrasound is a safe way to look inside the dog and find the testicles without surgery. It helps decide if surgery is needed and how to do it. Surgery lets the vet see and fix the problem directly².

“Accurate diagnosis of cryptorchidism in dogs is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach. Through a combination of physical examination, diagnostic tests, and imaging techniques such as ultrasound and exploratory surgery, veterinarians can effectively locate the undescended testicle(s) and make informed decisions regarding the surgical procedure.”

These diagnostic tools help vets decide how to treat cryptorchidism in dogs. They can figure out how many and where the testicles are, which is key to planning the surgery. This careful approach ensures the treatment works well and lowers risks for the dogs².

Diagnostic Methods for Cryptorchidism in Dogs

Choosing the right diagnostic method depends on many things, including the dog’s specific situation and the vet’s skills. By using different tests together, vets can accurately diagnose cryptorchidism in dogs. They can make sure the treatment plan is just right.

Surgical Treatment for Cryptorchidism

The only way to treat cryptorchidism in dogs is through surgery. This surgery finds and takes out the undescended testicle(s). It also usually means neutering the dog. Before this, the vet has to find where the hidden testicle(s) are. They might do this by feeling around, using an ultrasound, or doing exploratory surgery. This surgery is key to avoid serious problems and stop testicular cancer,¹.

The surgery for cryptorchidism involves cutting into where the testicle(s) are to take them out. If the testicle(s) are in the belly, the vet needs to carefully pull on the ductus deferens. This helps find and remove the hidden testicle(s),⁶. The vet uses special tools designed for this surgery, to make it successful,⁶.

Note that surgery for cryptorchidism takes more time and is more complex than normal neutering. Because the vet has to find and remove the undescended testicle(s), it costs more,⁶.

Even with some risks, surgery is the best and advised way to deal with cryptorchidism in dogs. After successfully removing the retained testicle(s) and neutering, dogs can have a healthy life. They won’t face the dangers of testicular cancer or other issues from undescended testicles,¹.

Recovery and Management of Dogs with Cryptorchidism

After surgery for cryptorchidism, dogs need two weeks to recover. It’s important to keep their activity low to lessen swelling and avoid issues. They might need to wear an Elizabethan collar to stop licking the surgery area. Watching the surgery spot for infection signs is key to a smooth recovery. Neutering these dogs helps stop the issue from passing on and prevents future health problems.

The post-surgery recovery lasts about two weeks.¹ During this time, keeping the dog’s activity low helps in healing properly and reduces risk of complications. Swelling and discomfort might happen, so it’s key to keep the dog relaxed. Keeping the surgery area clean and checking for any signs of infection are vital steps.

To stop dogs from messing with their surgery spot, they may need an Elizabethan collar. This keeps them from licking or biting the area, which could cause issues. Owners must ensure the collar fits well and is worn as advised during the recovery time.¹

Dogs might have trouble going to the bathroom right after surgery. It’s important to help them and offer easy outdoor access. Keeping their environment calm helps their recovery and comfort.¹

Neutering plays a big part in dealing with cryptorchidism in dogs. It prevents passing on the defect and lowers the risk of other problems like testicular cancer. The neutering surgery, which removes the undescended testicle(s), is usually done together with the corrective surgery. This avoids the chance of cancer, keeping the dog healthier in the long run.¹

Recovery from cryptorchidism surgery is crucial for a dog’s long-term health. Following the care instructions, limiting movement, watching the surgery area, and proper neutering are all important. With the right care, dogs can recover well from cryptorchidism surgery and lead healthy, active lives without the risks linked to retained testicles.¹

Conclusion

Cryptorchidism is when a dog’s testicle doesn’t move into the scrotum. This is most often passed down through breeds. Vets usually suggest taking the undescended testicle(s) out. Finding and treating this early helps avoid big problems like testicular cancer.

A study with⁷410 dogs found about 1.17 tumors per dog. A different 12-year look saw 919 cases of these tumors. Then, another research with 232 dogs showed these tumors were quite common. These studies make it clear how crucial early action is to stop serious conditions in dogs.

About 1.2% of all dogs get cryptorchidism. Usually, it’s just one testicle that’s not in the right place, but sometimes both are affected. The risk of getting tumors is much higher in these dogs. Sertoli cell tumors and seminomas are the most common types found in the undescended testicles.

This condition needs to be taken seriously. Dog owners should watch out for any signs. They should get an early check-up and think about neutering and surgery. This helps in keeping their pets healthy.

Source Links

1. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/retained-testicle-cryptorchidism-in-dogs
2. https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/reproductive/c_multi_cryptorchidism
3. https://www.banfieldexchange.com/News/Genetic-risks-for-cryptorchidism
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1677504/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9135263/
6. https://www.dvm360.com/view/cryptorchid-surgery-and-simple-ophthalmic-procedures-proceedings
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9514118/