Home » Diseases » In dogs » Cryptorchidism (Undescended Testicle)

Cryptorchidism (Undescended Testicle) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Cryptorchidism is a developmental disorder in male dogs where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. Instead, they remain in the abdominal cavity or inguinal canal.

The most important facts at a glance

Cryptorchidism, also known as undescended testicle, affects approximately 1-3% of male puppies. Normally, the testicles descend into the scrotum by the eighth week of life, but in cryptorchidism, this process remains incomplete. Genetic factors play a significant role, especially in breeds such as German Shepherds, Boxers, and Chihuahuas, suggesting a hereditary predisposition. Hormonal and environmental influences during pregnancy can also affect testicular descent. Symptoms are usually a missing testicle in the scrotum or a swelling in the groin area, which can cause infertility. Diagnosis is made by physical examination, occasionally supported by ultrasound. The main treatment is surgical removal of the undescended testicle to reduce the risk of testicular tumors. In unilateral cryptorchidism, the healthy testicle is often also removed to prevent genetic transmission. The prognosis is good if treated early. For prevention, affected dogs should not be used for breeding. Research focuses on genetic causes and environmental influences to develop better diagnostic and treatment methods.

Causes

Undescended testicle is a relatively common anomaly in dogs, occurring in approximately 1-3% of male puppies. The normal descent of the testicles into the scrotum occurs in the first weeks of the puppy’s life, typically by the eighth week. In cryptorchidism, this process remains incomplete.

The causes of cryptorchidism are not fully understood, but genetic factors are believed to play a significant role. The condition is more common in certain breeds, including German Shepherds, Boxers, Chihuahuas, and Poodles. This suggests that hereditary factors significantly contribute to the predisposition.

In addition to genetic factors, hormonal and environmental influences during the mother dog’s pregnancy could also play a role. For example, disturbances in testosterone levels could affect the normal development and descent of the testicles.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

The most noticeable symptom of cryptorchidism is the absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum, which is detected during a physical examination. In an incomplete examination, the condition may go unnoticed.

Another symptom may be an asymmetrical or irregular size of the scrotum if only one testicle is affected. In bilateral cryptorchidism, the testicles appear completely hidden in the abdominal cavity, which is more difficult to detect.

Affected dogs may have an increased risk of testicular tumors in adulthood, especially if the testicles remain in the abdominal cavity. In addition, cryptorchidism can lead to behavioral problems such as aggression, which are influenced by the increased testosterone level.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of cryptorchidism is usually made through a thorough physical examination of the dog. The veterinarian palpates the scrotum to determine if one or both testicles are missing. In young animals, the diagnosis can be delayed until the age of six months, as testicular descent may be delayed.

In some cases, an ultrasound examination may be necessary to determine the exact position of the testicle, especially if it is located in the abdominal cavity. This helps to detect and treat potential complications such as testicular tumors early.

Genetic tests are not currently widely used, but could play a role in the future in identifying carriers of the disease to avoid breeding affected animals.

Therapy

The recommended treatment for cryptorchidism is surgical removal of the undescended testicle, a procedure called cryptorchidectomy. This significantly reduces the risk of testicular tumors and other health complications.

In cases of unilateral cryptorchidism, the descended testicle is often also removed to minimize the risk of genetic transmission of the anomaly. Castration also prevents unwanted behavioral problems associated with elevated testosterone levels.

In some cases, especially in valuable breeding animals, hormonal treatment may be considered to promote testicular descent. However, this method is controversial and not always successful.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with cryptorchidism is generally good, especially if the condition is detected and treated early. Surgical removal of the affected testicles is a routine procedure with low risks and a quick recovery time.

If left untreated, there is an increased risk of developing testicular tumors, which can worsen the prognosis. Testicular tumors in cryptorchidism are often more aggressive and difficult to treat, which is why early removal of the affected tissue is important.

After treatment, most dogs can lead a normal, healthy life. Castration can also help reduce behavioral problems that may be associated with the condition.

Prevention

Since cryptorchidism has a genetic component, the best prevention is not to use affected dogs for breeding. This prevents the transmission of the genetic predisposition to future generations.

Regular veterinary examinations in the first months of a puppy’s life are important to detect cryptorchidism early. This allows for timely treatment and prevents possible complications.

A healthy diet and care of the pregnant dog can also help minimize the risk of developmental disorders in the offspring, although this alone cannot completely prevent cryptorchidism.

Outlook on current research

Undescended testicle, also known as cryptorchidism, is one of the most common congenital reproductive disorders in dogs. This condition has garnered significant attention in the scientific community because it can not only affect the fertility of affected animals but also increase their risk for certain health problems, such as testicular cancer and testicular torsion. Research is currently focused on various aspects of this condition, including genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and better diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

A significant research focus is on identifying the genetic markers responsible for cryptorchidism. Scientists have discovered that it is a polygenetic disorder, meaning that multiple genes are involved in its development. Modern techniques such as genome sequencing and association studies are being used to identify specific gene variants that are associated with an increased risk of undescended testicle. These discoveries could lead to genetic tests in the future that breeders can use to better assess the risk of cryptorchidism in their breeding lines.

Another area of research is investigating the role of environmental influences in the development of cryptorchidism. Studies have shown that certain chemical substances, known as endocrine disruptors, can disrupt the hormonal balance during embryonic development, which can lead to an increased risk of cryptorchidism. These substances can be found in pesticides, plastic products, and other industrial chemicals. The research aims to better understand these compounds and develop strategies to minimize exposure during critical developmental phases.

Regarding the treatment of cryptorchidism, current studies are focusing on developing less invasive and more effective surgical techniques. While castration of the affected dog is the most common treatment method, some scientists are exploring the possibility of moving the testicles into their correct position to preserve fertility. However, these surgical techniques are still in the experimental phase and require further investigation to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

In summary, research in the field of cryptorchidism in dogs is making promising progress. The combination of genetic studies and the investigation of environmental influences could lead to better prevention and treatment of this condition in the future. This would not only benefit the health of the affected dogs but could also improve breeding practices and expand the general understanding of reproductive biology in mammals.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is cryptorchidism in dogs? Cryptorchidism is a condition in which one or both testicles of a male dog do not descend into the scrotum. This can be detected at birth or shortly thereafter and is one of the most common reproductive disorders in male dogs.
How common is cryptorchidism in dogs? Cryptorchidism occurs in about 1-3% of male dogs, with some breeds being more susceptible than others. Toy and small dog breeds are particularly affected.
What causes cryptorchidism? This condition is caused by a combination of genetic and possibly environmental factors. Several genes can influence the risk, and exposure to certain chemicals during the mother’s pregnancy may also play a role.
What risks are associated with cryptorchidism? Dogs with cryptorchidism have an increased risk of testicular cancer and testicular torsion. The condition can also lead to hormonal disorders that can affect the dog’s behavior.
How is cryptorchidism diagnosed? The diagnosis is usually made by a physical examination of the dog by a veterinarian, who determines whether the testicles are present in the scrotum. In some cases, additional imaging procedures such as ultrasound may be necessary to determine the position of the testicles.
What are the treatment options for cryptorchidism? The most common treatment is surgical removal of the undescended testicles to reduce the risk of complications such as cancer. This procedure is called castration. In some cases, an attempt may be made to move the testicles into the scrotum, but this is rare and often unsuccessful.
Can dogs with cryptorchidism be bred? It is strongly advised against breeding dogs with cryptorchidism, as the condition has a genetic component and can be passed on to offspring. Breeding such dogs could increase the risk that the offspring will also be affected.
Are there ways to prevent cryptorchidism? Since cryptorchidism has a genetic component, prevention is limited. However, careful breeding selection can help reduce the risk. This includes not using dogs with known cases of cryptorchidism in breeding.
At what age should a dog with cryptorchidism be neutered? It is recommended that dogs with cryptorchidism be neutered at the age of six to twelve months, before the risk of testicular cancer increases significantly. However, the exact timing may vary and should be discussed with a veterinarian.
Does cryptorchidism affect a dog’s behavior? Cryptorchidism itself does not usually affect a dog’s behavior. However, hormonal changes associated with the condition can sometimes lead to behavioral problems that can be mitigated by castration.