Testicular Cancer in Dogs (Signs, Causes & Treatment)

There are several benefits to neutering male dogs, including not only behavioral improvements but crucial health advantages. Neutering plays a significant role in preventing testicular cancer in dogs. Testicular cancer can manifest as lumps or tumors in the testicles.

Understanding the signs, causes, and available treatments is crucial for early detection and effective intervention. In this article, we'll explore the key aspects of testicular cancer in dogs to arm you with the knowledge you need to prioritize your pet's well-being.

• What is Testicular Cancer?
• Signs
• Causes & risk factors
• Diagnosis & treatment
• FAQs
• Final Notes

What is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer in dogs accounts for 90% of cancers in the male reproductive system.¹ Unneutered dogs are more susceptible. While these tumors usually remain localized, potential metastatic sites include lymph nodes, liver, lungs, and other organs.

The main types of testicular cancer in dogs are:

• Leydig: Leydig cell tumors develop from cells responsible for producing testosterone. Typically small, these tumors rarely spread and often go unnoticed, causing minimal signs or symptoms. Leydig cell tumors are commonly discovered during routine examinations.^1,2
• Sertoli: Sertoli cell tumors arise in cells responsible for sperm development. These tumors tend to spread and are more frequent in undescended testicles. Unlike Leydig cell tumors, Sertoli cell tumors can exhibit noticeable signs, making early detection crucial for effective treatment.^1,2
• Seminomas: Seminomas originate in the innermost layer of the testicle. They originate from germ cells, which are normal sperm-producing cells. These tumors are often less aggressive but may cause specific clinical signs, and they can sometimes coexist with other types of testicular cancer in dogs.^1,2

Signs

The signs of testicular cancer in dogs can vary, and it's essential for pet parents to be vigilant for any changes in their canine companions. A testicular tumor commonly reveals itself through changes in the appearance of the testicles.² Common testicular cancer signs in dogs include:

• Testicle shrinkage
• Testicle enlargement
• Swelling or discomfort
• Loss of hair in spots
• Skin issues like discoloration
• Suspended foreskin
• Swollen mammary glands
• Penis shrinkage
• Twisted testicle¹

Penile atrophy and feminization are relatively common. Feminization occurs when the dog begins developing more feminine attributes and is due to the production of estrogen — the female sex hormone —-in a male dog. Sertoli tumor cells are the most likely to cause this process. Signs of feminization in dogs include:

• Symmetrical hair loss
• Elongation of nipples
• Enlargement of mammary glands
• Squatting to urinate²

In addition to the above early-stage testicular cancer in dogs, you may notice:

• Behavioral changes: Behavioral changes, such as lethargy or paying more attention to their testicles than usual, may indicate discomfort or distress. Additionally, if your male dog usually lifts his leg to urinate, you might notice them squatting to urinate due to feminization.
• Loss of appetite: A dog with testicular cancer may exhibit a noticeable loss of appetite. Changes in eating habits, disinterest in food, or reluctance to eat can indicate an underlying health issue.
• Weight loss: Weight loss is another potential sign associated with testicular cancer in dogs. When a dog loses weight unintentionally, it could be indicative of various health concerns, including underlying tumors. You should monitor your dog's weight and seek veterinary advice if significant or unexplained weight loss occurs.²

Causes & risk factors

Various factors influence testicular cancer in dogs, and understanding these can contribute to early detection. Some dogs face a heightened risk of developing testicular tumors. A few risk factors include:

• Age: Testicular cancer is more prevalent in older dogs, particularly those over ten years of age. Aging is a significant factor in developing tumors, and regular veterinary check-ups become increasingly important as dogs age.
• Sex: Given its nature, testicular cancer occurs exclusively in male dogs.
• Breed predisposition: Certain dog breeds have a higher susceptibility to testicular cancer. Breeds such as Boxers, Afghan Hounds, Collies, German Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Weimaraners, and Malteses have an increased risk. Understanding breed predispositions helps in targeted monitoring for early signs.
• Neutered status. Neutered dogs are at a significantly lower risk of developing testicular cancer. Removal of the testicles eliminates the presence of normal cells that make up the testicular tissue.
• Cryptorchid testicles: Dogs with cryptorchid testicles, where one or both testicles fail to descend and remain in the abdomen, are highly prone to forming tumor cells, especially seminomas and Sertoli cell tumors^1,2

Diagnosis & treatment

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan for testicular cancer in dogs. Veterinarians may use various diagnostic methods to confirm the presence of testicular tumors, including:

• Physical examination: A thorough physical examination includes assessing the size, shape, and consistency of the testicles. This can help the vet find any tumors or other symptoms of testicular cancer in dogs.
• Fine needle aspiration cytology: This is useful for screening metastasis and provides insights into the nature of the tumor cells.
• Complete blood count (CBC): A CBC is performed to check for any issues with the blood that might be related to increased estrogen levels. This test looks for abnormalities like low white blood cells, low platelet count, and anemia.
• Abdominal ultrasound: An ultrasound allows vets to identify non-descended testicles and assess regional lymph nodes.
• Testicular ultrasonography: This test helps differentiate between malignant conditions or cancer cells within the testicles. Ultrasonography can provide detailed imaging to help characterize the tumor.

These diagnostic tests contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the type, stage, and potential metastasis of testicular cancer. The information gathered guides vets in formulating an appropriate and tailored treatment plan for the dog.

Surgical removal is the primary and most effective treatment for testicular tumors in dogs, a procedure called an orchiectomy. This procedure involves the complete excision of the affected testicle, eliminating the source of the cancer and preventing its potential spread and recurrence. The curative nature of this treatment offers a positive outlook for many dogs.

The surgical intervention is tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. In situations where tumors affect both testicles, a bilateral orchiectomy may be recommended, removing both testicles to ensure the eradication of cancerous cells.¹

On the other hand, if the cancer has spread or is aggressive, chemotherapy may be recommended to target and destroy cancer cells. This treatment is often used in conjunction with surgery. Radiation therapy is another option to target and shrink tumors, particularly when surgery alone may not be efficient. It's commonly used for seminomas.²

After initial treatment, regular follow-up appointments and monitoring are essential to track the dog's recovery and detect any signs of recurrence. In cases where the cancer is advanced and aggressive, your vet will focus on improving your dog's quality of life by managing the symptoms of testicular cancer in dogs and providing comfort.

The outlook for dogs with testicular cancer that get their testicle(s) removed surgically is good. Typically, this cures the cancer and allows the dog to live a happy, healthy life.

FAQs

How long do dogs live with testicular cancer?

Dogs with testicular cancer have varied survival times depending on factors such as the type of cancer, its stage, and the chosen treatment. For dogs treated with systemic chemotherapy, the median survival time ranges from 5 months to 31 months.¹

However, individual cases may differ, and prognosis is influenced by the specific characteristics of the cancer and the dog's overall health. Regular veterinary check-ups and adhering to prescribed treatments can contribute to better outcomes and an improved quality of life for dogs with testicular cancer.

In many cases, after surgical removal of the testicle, many dogs go on to live full lives. The surgery is a common and effective treatment. By removing the cancerous testicle, the spread of cancer cells is often stopped.

Following surgery, vets may recommend additional treatments based on the type and stage of cancer.

How much does it cost to remove testicular cancer from a dog?

The cost of removing testicular cancer from a dog depends on various factors, including the type of treatment required, the location of the veterinary clinic, the individual clinic's pricing, and any additional treatments required. Pet parents should consult with their veterinarian to get a more personalized and accurate estimate based on their dog's specific needs and the recommended treatment plan.

Keep in mind that the costs may vary, and discussing financial considerations with the veterinary team can help you plan accordingly for your dog's care.

Does testicular cancer cause pain in dogs?

In many cases, testicular cancer in dogs may not cause noticeable pain. Dogs are known to hide signs of discomfort, making it challenging for pet owners to detect subtle changes. However, some behavioral changes, such as increased licking or chewing in the genital area, reluctance to be touched around the testicles, or changes in urination habits, could indicate discomfort.

In most cases, dogs don't experience pain and probably won't show any symptoms other than the physical ones affecting their testicles, such as shrinkage, enlargement, and so forth. It's crucial for pet owners to be vigilant for any unusual behavior and consult with a veterinarian if they observe such signs. Regular veterinary check-ups and early detection contribute to better outcomes and the dog's overall well-being.

Final Notes

Understanding testicular cancer in dogs is crucial for pet parents to ensure early detection and the most effective treatment. Early diagnosis is crucial, and veterinarians use various techniques to diagnose testicular cancer in dogs. Treatment often involves surgical removal, chemotherapy, or radiation for more advanced cases. The outlook for dogs that undergo surgery is generally positive, with a good chance for a happy, healthy life.