Cryptorchidism in dogs: what to recommend
7-month-old male Chihuahua at his check-up. The left testicle is in the scrotum; the right one cannot be felt in the scrotum or clearly in the inguinal region. The owners wanted to breed from him.
Which recommendation is correct?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Treatment with hCG or GnRH so that the testicle descends
There is no solid evidence of efficacy at this age, with the inguinal ring already closed, and it would also hide a hereditary defect in a potential breeding animal.
B. Removing only the retained testicle and keeping the scrotal one so he can breed
Cryptorchidism has a hereditary basis: this dog should not be used for breeding. Leaving one testicle also maintains testosterone-related behaviour and problems.
C. Bilateral orchiectomy, locating the retained testicle (inguinal or abdominal)
Correct. The retained testicle carries a much higher risk of neoplasia (Sertoli cell tumour, seminoma) and torsion, and the defect is hereditary. Ultrasound helps locate it before surgery.
D. Waiting until 2 years of age, because it may still descend
Testicles are usually in the scrotum by about 8 weeks; if they have not descended by 6 months, they are very unlikely to do so.
lightbulb Key takeaway
In adopted dogs of unknown reproductive status showing entire male behaviour, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) or the testosterone response to hCG or GnRH stimulation confirms whether testicular tissue remains. A dog with only one visible testicle is not neutered until proven otherwise.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.