Why have my dogs testicles not dropped?
Cryptorchidism is a condition that can be inherited. It can genetically be passed down to the dog's puppies when breeding takes place. It is also referred to as 'undescended testicles.' In the realm of Heredity, this is possible when two heterosexual dogs (the male dog affected) mate and produce an offspring. Below is more information on the condition.
Cryptorchidism is a health condition which is known by veterinarians to affect just one of the testicles. In other cases though, both sides can also be affected. It can occur as early as during the puppy’s fetal development or sometime at birth. The testicles would ideally form within the dog's abdomen right before the actual birth takes place, subsequently descending towards the scrotal sac at or near birth. In a situation whereby the process does not take place as it is supposed to be, either both testicles or one testicle may have remained behind in the abdominal area where it was created or somewhat displaced in the inguinal canal or groin area.
The testicle that remains behind in the abdomen is usually known to produce fewer sperm than the one that descends properly into the scrotum even though it is still known to be capable of producing the male sexual hormones called testosterone. If you, as the dog owner, notice that both of your dog's testicles have not yet descended into your dog's scrotum at six months of age then it is imperative to consult your local veterinarian. Moreover, cryptorchidism has a tendency to affect your pet much later in his life. Hence, the dog owner is advised to remove the "unfallen" testicle through castration. And because this condition is hereditary, the dog owner is also advised not to use the dog for breeding purposes to avoid creating more offspring that have the defective trait.
With regard to the castration of the dog, you might witness that both testicles are being removed even if it has only one undescended testicle. It is because the ideal method of castration involves bilateral castration. This is known to be a very effective method used by veterinarians. The unilateral option can also serve the purpose when it is considered by the vet over the other approach. But in most cases of cryptorchidism, both testicles will eventually be removed from the dog. Aside from preventing these affected dogs from breeding, it can also save their lives in the long run for undescended testes have been connoted with an increased incidence of tumour formation.
All in all, dog owners must make sure to assess whether their dog has cryptorchidism or not. It would be advisable to consult your local veterinarian for advice on how to properly examine your dog for such a condition. If ever your dog really has an undescended set of testicles then the vet can also recommend some remedies that can help your pet. The situation could be very bad so it is always best to have your dog checked by a seasoned professional.
This pet health article is for reference only.
If your pet is showing any symptoms or distress, and you suspect your pet is ill CONTACT YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY.