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My unneutered dog has a swollen, painful scrotum. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 5 years and 3 months old

My dogs scrotum Is swollen and he's in pain..squeals if I even brush across them. Eating and urinating regularly. Is standing as laying down seems to

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 26th, 2016

I see that your dog is unneutered - one condition that can come on suddenly and be extremely painful is called testicular torsion. Basically, one of the testicles becomes twisted inside the scrotal sac, cutting off the blood supply and causing swelling and intense pain. Based on your description, I would be concerned about this possibility and would recommend getting your dog to a vet as soon as possible, since he is in a lot of distress and there is really nothing that can be done at home to help. Other possibilities would include a scrotal or testicular infection, a tumor, or even a scrotal hernia.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Dogs that aren't neutered are prone to developing tumors on the testes. He could also have an inflammation of the epididymus called epididymitis, or inflammation of the testes themselves which is called orchitis. Epididymitis and orchitis can also be triggered by infectious organisms, as well as by other conditions, including viral causes (i.e., distemper), infections associated with inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis), and inflammation of the bladder (cystitis). Your dog needs to see a vet to diagnose the problem and properly treat it. Keep in mind your vet will likely recommend castration, as that will cure inflammation of the testes and epididymus, and scrotal tumors. It will also significantly reduce the chances of prostate diseases when he is old. Take him into your vet first thing Monday.

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 8th, 2019

    Poor Bear! Bear may be dealing with testicular torsion, which is a medical emergency involving swelling of the testicles and potentially loss f blood supply to the area. Please have him seen by a veterinarian right away, as if it is testicular torsion, it is extremely painful. He could also be having some sort of allergic reaction, which would be less likely, but still needs medical attention right away. Good luck, and I hope he feels better soon!

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 11th, 2017

    Your dog could be experiencing a hematoma (essentially a blood filled scrotum), infection or a testicular mass. He will need to be evaluated by a vet immediately to assure that there are no signs of active bleeding. The vet will also be able to examine his prostate and will discuss the likely need of neutering him to remove the source of the problem.

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