Common names or abbreviations:

Description or definition:

The term cryptorchid means “hidden testicle.”  At birth, the testicles of a puppy are still within its abdomen. As the animal develops, the testicles slowly descend into the scrotum. Testicular descent can occur as early as 10 days following birth, but should be completed by 6 months of age.

Cryptorchid testicles can be retained within the abdominal cavity, or they can descend partially into the inguinal region (the entrance into the scrotum).   If one testicle is retained, a dog is a unilateral cryptorchid.  If both are retained, he is a bilateral cryptorchid.  An undescended testicle is usually underdeveloped and non-functional.  Therefore, although unilateral cryptorchids are generally fertile, bilateral cryptorchids are usually sterile.  Cryptorchids generally experience normal sexual drive unless they are castrated.

Cryptorchidism is hereditary and is a sex-limited (only affected males not carrier females show it) trait. The exact mode of inheritance is still under debate.

Related Terms or Conditions:

Both monorchidism and anorchidism are very rare.

Diagnosis: 

Cryptorchidism is diagnosed by palpation of the scrotum and finding the absence of one or both testicles. The diagnosis is frequently made in the young healthy dog when he is presented to the veterinarian for routine castration. Often the owner is unaware of the problem.

Treatment:

There is an increased risk of cancer and testicular torsion in abdominal testicles, therefore, removal is recommended.  Surgical placement of the retained testicle into the scrotum is possible, however, castration and removal of both testicles is the preferred treatment.

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