Cryptorchidism (Retained Testicle)

What is it?

Testicles develop near the kidneys and normally move into the scrotum by about two months of age, rarely later than six months. In cryptorchidism, one (usually) or both stay in the abdomen, the groin canal, or under the skin of the groin. It affects about 1 to 15% of dogs, appears to be inherited, and is more common in toy and small breeds such as toy poodles, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire terriers.

What signs should I watch for?

It is usually not painful. You may notice only one testicle, or none, in the scrotum after two to four months of age. Dogs with retained testicles still behave like intact males. A retained testicle can twist, which causes sudden, severe belly pain and needs emergency surgery.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Your veterinarian can often find the testicle by feeling the groin; an abdominal testicle may be located with ultrasound or X-rays, or at surgery. The recommended treatment is neutering, removing both testicles.

Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?

• The outlook is excellent when surgery is done early.
• A retained testicle is at least ten times more likely to become cancerous, and affected dogs should never be bred because the condition is inherited.