Home » Diseases » In dogs » Testicular Torsion (Twisted Testicle)

Testicular Torsion (Twisted Testicle) in Dogs

Occurrence: very rare
Location of disease: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Definition

Testicular torsion is an acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. condition where the testicle twists around its own axis, leading to an interruption of the blood supply. This can lead to tissue damage or the death of the testicle if not treated quickly.

The most important facts at a glance

Testicular torsion in dogs occurs when a testicle twists around its axis, interrupting the blood supply. This condition arises from abnormal mobility of the testicle within the scrotum, often due to loose spermatic cordThe spermatic cord is a bundle of nerves, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and the vas deferens that connects the testicles to the body. It plays an important role in blood supply and sperm transport. tissue. Genetic factors can play a role, with certain breeds like Great Danes, Greyhounds, and Boxers being more susceptible. Dogs with cryptorchidismCryptorchidism is an anomaly in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum. This can occur unilaterally or bilaterally and has potential effects on fertility and increases the risk of testicular cancer. also have an increased risk. External influences like vigorous movement or blows can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. torsion, though it sometimes occurs without a recognizable cause.

Symptoms include Pain, loss of appetite, weakness, Vomiting, and Swelling in the scrotum. A quick diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. by a vet, often using ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow., is crucial as it is an emergency requiring immediate surgical treatment. Surgery aims to untwist the testicle or remove it if it is irreparably damaged. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is good if treated rapidly, as the testicle can often be saved. However, delayed treatment can lead to permanent damage.

PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is difficult, especially with a genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases., but prophylactic measures like testicular fixation, regular vet exams, and potentially early castration can reduce the risk. Research focuses on genetic causes and improving diagnostics to develop preventive approaches and reduce the need for surgery.

Causes

Testicular torsion results from abnormal mobility of the testicle within the scrotum. Normally, the testicles are secured by the spermatic cordThe spermatic cord is a bundle of nerves, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and the vas deferens that connects the testicles to the body. It plays an important role in blood supply and sperm transport. tissue, which holds them in position and prevents excessive movement. In some dogs, however, this tissue can be too loose, increasing the risk of torsion.

The cause of this abnormal mobility can be linked to genetics. Breeds with a genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. for testicular torsion include Great Danes, Greyhounds, and Boxers. There is evidence that dogs with cryptorchidismCryptorchidism is an anomaly in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum. This can occur unilaterally or bilaterally and has potential effects on fertility and increases the risk of testicular cancer. (undescended testicles) have a higher risk of testicular torsion because the testicle is not correctly fixed in the scrotum.

Additionally, external factors or sudden movements, such as vigorous play or a direct blow to the scrotum, can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. torsion. It is also possible for torsion to occur without any recognizable external influences.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Diarrhea

Symptoms of testicular torsion often appear suddenly and can be very dramatic. One of the most common signs is acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. Pain in the scrotal area. The affected dog may suddenly start acting restless, whimpering, or even crying out in pain.

There may also be visible Swelling of the scrotum. The affected area may be warm and red, and the dog might try Licking or biting the area to relieve the pain. Other symptoms can include Vomiting, loss of appetite, and general malaise.

Another sign is the dog showing Lameness, especially when trying to move or run. In severe cases, the dog may appear lethargic or refuse to move.

Diagnosis

DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of testicular torsion usually begins with a thorough clinical examination by a veterinarian. The vet will examine the scrotum for Swelling, tenderness, and abnormal positioning. A physical examination can often provide clues pointing toward torsion.

To confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., an ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. of the testicle can be performed. The ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. can help assess blood flow in the scrotum and determine if torsion is present. In some cases, an X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. may also be taken to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.

A rapid diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is crucial, as testicular torsion is an emergency situation that must be treated quickly to avoid permanent damage to the testicle.

Therapy

Treatment for testicular torsion usually requires surgical intervention. The affected testicle must be surgically untwisted to restore blood supply. This is an emergency procedure that should be performed as quickly as possible to ensure the best chance of success.

In some cases, especially if the torsion remains untreated for too long, it may be necessary to remove the affected testicle, as the tissue may already be irreversibly damaged. This operation is known as an orchiectomyAn orchiectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or both testicles. In dogs and cats, this procedure is often performed for castration / neutering to prevent reproduction, reduce behavioral problems, and reduce the risk of certain diseases or conditions of a testicle..

After surgery, the dog will typically receive pain medication and possibly antibiotics to prevent infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Careful monitoring and follow-up care are important to ensure the dog recovers well and no further complications occur.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for dogs that receive prompt and effective treatment for testicular torsion is generally good. If the torsion is treated within hours, the testicle can often be saved, and the dog can make a full recovery.

However, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is poorer if treatment is delayed. A prolonged loss of blood supply can lead to permanent damage or the loss of the testicle. In such cases, the dog can still lead a normal life, especially if only one testicle is affected.

It is important for owners to recognize the symptoms of testicular torsion early and seek veterinary help immediately to achieve the best results.

Prevention

Since some dogs are genetically predisposed to testicular torsion, specific preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. measures can be difficult. For dogs prone to this condition, prophylactic surgical fixation of the testicle may be considered to reduce the risk of torsion.

Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify potential risk factors early on. Owners should ensure their dogs do not engage in excessive physical activities that could lead to torsion, especially if they have already shown symptoms of cryptorchidismCryptorchidism is an anomaly in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum. This can occur unilaterally or bilaterally and has potential effects on fertility and increases the risk of testicular cancer..

Another preventive approach can be to have dogs neutered early, especially if they are not intended for breeding. This can reduce the risk of testicular torsion and other testicular problems.

Outlook on current research

Testicular torsion in dogs is a relatively rare but serious health problem. It occurs when a testicle twists around its own axis, leading to an interruption of the blood supply. Research in this area is important to develop the best methods for diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment. Current studies focus on better understanding the causes of this condition to develop preventive measures.

An important area of research is the investigation of genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. for testicular torsion. Some studies suggest that certain breeds, particularly large breeds like Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, are more susceptible to this condition. Researchers are working to identify genetic markers that could indicate an increased risk. In the future, this could help develop breeding strategies to lower the risk in affected breeds.

Another research focus is on improving diagnostic methods. Currently, diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is often made through physical examination and ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow., but these methods have their limits. Advances in diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging includes medical procedures that create images of the inside of the body to diagnose, monitor, or treat diseases and injuries. Examples include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)., such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs., could enable a more accurate and earlier diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. Scientists are also investigating the role of biomarkers that can be detected in the blood to facilitate a faster diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Treatment strategies for testicular torsion usually involve surgical procedures where the affected testicle is removed. Research is exploring alternative treatment methods to reduce the need for surgery. One possibility is the exploration of techniques for manual detorsion, although this technique is currently in its infancy and can only be used in very specific situations.

PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is also an important research area. Since testicular torsion often occurs in dogs with cryptorchidismCryptorchidism is an anomaly in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum. This can occur unilaterally or bilaterally and has potential effects on fertility and increases the risk of testicular cancer. (displaced testicle), studies are looking into whether early surgical intervention in these animals can reduce the risk of torsion. Additionally, the role of diet and exercise in the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of testicular torsion is being studied to provide pet owners with practical tips for reducing the risk.

In summary, research on testicular torsion in dogs aims to better understand the condition and develop more effective diagnostic and treatment approaches. Advances in geneticsGenetics is the science of genes, heredity, and the variation of organisms. It studies how genetic information is passed from generation to generation and how it influences the development, appearance, and behavior of living things. and diagnostics could lead to a significant reduction in cases of testicular torsion in the future and improve the quality of life for affected dogs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is testicular torsion in dogs?

Testicular torsion is a condition where one of the dog's testicles twists around its own axis, leading to an interruption of the blood supply. This can lead to Pain, Swelling, and serious health problems if not treated in time. -

What symptoms are typical of testicular torsion?

Typical symptoms of testicular torsion include sudden Pain, Swelling in the scrotum, fatigue, loss of appetite, and in some cases Fever. The dog may also show signs of discomfort, such as Licking or biting in the area of the scrotum. -

What causes testicular torsion?

The exact causes are not fully known, but factors such as genetic predisposition, physical activity, and anatomical anomalies like cryptorchidism can increase the risk. Large dog breeds seem to be affected more frequently. -

How is testicular torsion diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made through a combination of physical examination, ultrasound, and sometimes blood tests. In some cases, an MRI may be required to confirm the diagnosis. -

How is testicular torsion treated?

Primary treatment usually consists of a surgical procedure to remove the affected testicle. In some cases, an attempt may be made to manually detorse the testicle, but this is often unsuccessful and rarely used. -

Can testicular torsion be prevented?

Direct prevention is difficult, but in dogs with cryptorchidism, early surgical removal of the displaced testicle can reduce the risk. Additionally, regular veterinary check-ups can help identify problems early. -

Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to testicular torsion?

Yes, some large dog breeds like Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and others may be more susceptible to testicular torsion due to their genetics and physical characteristics. -

How quickly does testicular torsion need to be treated?

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that should be treated as quickly as possible. Delayed treatment can lead to irreversible damage to the testicle and other health complications. -

What are the long-term prospects for dogs with testicular torsion?

If the condition is treated quickly and effectively, the prognosis is generally good. Dogs can lead a normal life even if one testicle has been removed. However, complications can occur if treatment is delayed. -

Can dogs live a normal life after testicular torsion?

Yes, most dogs can lead a normal life after testicular torsion and appropriate treatment. The surgical removal of a testicle usually has no negative effects on the dog's general well-being.