undescended testicle - Page 1

I just bought a puppy from Germany. I live in the US. He is now almost 3mos and his right testicle has not dropped. Is there any long term health issues I should be concerned with?

Desi normally one would like to see that testicle down but it has been known to take up to 9 months of age for it to descend (Got this years ago from WSU). If it does not come down by a year your chances are pretty nill it will. The pup should then be neutored or at least the one testicle that is retained removed or it can become cancerous. The dog should not be used for breeding if it is a cryptorchid so might as well do a full neutor. JMO.

Agreed. The testicles normally descend into the scrotum by six (6) to eight (8) weeks, but can appear a bit later. I would give this puppy up to one (1) year for this to occur before taking medical action. For the time being, I would have him examined by a veterinarian to see if the testicle is present and near the top band of the scrotum. If the testicle does eventually appear, I would not consider this dog to be a candidate for breeding; even if he is an otherwise excellent specimen. I am not making any accusations towards the breeder of this puppy, but there are still breeders who will "assist" the placement of a testicle through physical manipulation and/or hormonal supplementation and that is perhaps why this problem is still prevalent. It would be great if the missing testicle would eventually appear and save the greif of surgery. The undescended testicle will remain warm and overproduce testosterone, so this male may be more "hormonal" than normal until this testicle is removed. As Trailrider said, the undescended testicle should be removed if a year has passed and it has not appeared. The normal testicle can remain, and it is important that the puppy have this until he finishes growing at the age of thirty (30) or thirty-six (36) months in order to develop proper secondary sex characteristics. Neutering him after that time will not affect his drive or temperament. Desi209, I feel for you, as I have "been there, done that" with a VA-produced puppy. Good Luck, Bob-O

Bob O- Thanks for your reply I am in love with this puppy. I went to the vet today, but I am going back in 3 weeks for more shots, so I am hoping that it will appear. If not I am still happy with him. I will keep you posted....please say a puppy prayer Desi