Cryptorchidism in Dogs: What it is, Types, Symptoms and Treatment

Waggyfriend, on this occasion we will talk about what cryptorchidism is, its possible causes, the types that exist, its symptoms, consequences, treatments and much more. Stay and let's continue informing ourselves for the good of our pets.

What is cryptorchidism in dogs?

Cryptorchidism is a condition in which one or both of a dog's testicles do not descend properly from the abdomen into the scrotum, where they normally reside. In male dogs, the testicles normally descend from the abdomen through the inguinal canal into the scrotum during fetal development or shortly after birth. However, in cases of cryptorchidism, one or both testicles may remain retained in the abdomen or inguinal canal.

Causes of cryptorchidism in dogs

Cryptorchidism in dogs can have several causes, and in many cases the exact cause is not fully understood. Some possible causes may be:

Genetic factors

Cryptorchidism may have a genetic predisposition, meaning that certain breeds may have a higher incidence of this condition.

Hormonal problems

Hormones play an important role in the development and descent of testicles in dogs. Hormonal imbalances can interfere with the normal process of testicular descent.

Anatomical malformations

Some dogs may be born with anatomical malformations that affect the development or descent of the testicles.

Problems during fetal development

Environmental factors or problems during fetal development can interfere with the normal process of testicular descent.

Trauma

Injuries or trauma to the abdominal or inguinal region can interfere with the normal descent of the testicles.

Types of cryptorchidism

There are different types of cryptorchidism in dogs, depending on the location of the retained testicles:

Unilateral cryptorchidism

In this type, only one of the testicles has not descended into the scrotum, while the other testicle has descended normally. It may be the right or left testicle that is retained.

Bilateral cryptorchidism

In this case, both testicles are retained in the abdomen or inguinal canal and have not descended into the scrotum.

Abdominal

When the testicle has not descended completely and is in the abdominal cavity.

Inguinal

When the testicle is retained in the inguinal canal, near the scrotum, but has not managed to completely reach its destination.

Ectopic

In rare cases, the retained testicle may be in an abnormal location, such as in the inguinal region, near the perineum, or even in other areas of the body.

Symptoms of cryptorchidism

Let us remember that the symptoms of cryptorchidism in dogs can vary depending on several factors, such as the severity of the condition and whether there are associated complications. However, here are some of the most common symptoms:

• If one or both testicles are not present in the scrotum, it could indicate that they are retained in the abdomen or inguinal canal.
• A veterinarian may feel a retained testicle during an abdominal physical examination. This may be especially important to detect cases of abdominal cryptorchidism, where the testicle is not visible externally.

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• In some cases, dogs with cryptorchidism may show signs of abdominal or groin discomfort. This may include excessive licking in the inguinal or abdominal region, difficulty defecating or abnormal body postures. You need to know about canine language to know how to interpret the signals.
• In cases of untreated cryptorchidism, complications such as testicular torsion or the development of testicular tumors may arise. These problems can manifest themselves with symptoms such as acute abdominal pain, swelling in the inguinal region, lethargy, coccidiosis in dogs , loss of appetite and changes in behavior, it may even happen that your dog has diarrhea .

Consequences of cryptorchidism in dogs

Increased risk of testicular cancer

Dogs with retained testicles are at increased risk of developing testicular tumors, such as seminoma and germ cell carcinoma. These tumors can be malignant and may require aggressive treatment.

Testicular torsion

Retained testicles are at increased risk of torsion, where the spermatic cord twists on itself, disrupting blood flow to the testicle. This condition can be extremely painful and, if not treated quickly, can cause permanent damage to the testicle and require emergency surgery.

Infertility

Retained testicles can function suboptimally and affect sperm production, which can result in infertility in the dog.

Behavior problems

Some dogs with cryptorchidism may experience behavioral changes such as dog aggression due to discomfort associated with the condition, such as pain or discomfort in the inguinal or abdominal region.

Increased risk of complications during castration

If a dog with cryptorchidism needs to be neutered, the procedure may be more complicated and risky due to the abnormal location of the retained testicle.

Treatment for canine cryptorchidism

The most common and recommended treatment for cryptorchidism in dogs is surgery, specifically orchiectomy or surgical castration of the affected dog. This procedure involves the removal of the retained testicle, as well as the other testicle if necessary, to prevent future complications and reduce the risk of developing testicular tumors.

The goal of orchiectomy in dogs with cryptorchidism is:

• Remove the retained testicle
• Prevent genetic transmission
• Improve overall health

Hormonal treatment

Actually, hormonal treatment is not considered an effective option to eliminate cryptorchidism in dogs. Although different approaches to treating cryptorchidism have been researched and explored, including the use of hormones, these methods are not typically as effective as surgery and are not considered the treatment of choice. It is important to consult a veterinarian to obtain an accurate diagnosis and discuss the most appropriate treatment options for the affected dog.

Cryptorchidism surgery price in dogs

This information may be variable depending on several factors, but there is information that it costs between 1,845 and 2,029 Mexican pesos.

Conclusion

In conclusion, canine cryptorchidism is a condition in which one or both testicles do not descend properly into the scrotum during the dog's development. This abnormality can increase the risk of serious complications, such as testicular tumors and testicular torsion, in addition to affecting the animal's fertility. Orchiectomy surgery is the standard treatment to correct cryptorchidism and prevent future health problems. It is essential to seek veterinary care if it is suspected that a dog may be affected by this condition to ensure proper management and avoid potentially serious complications.