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Should I neuter my dog with a retained testicle? Cancer risk?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Setter | Male | neutered | 50 lbs

I have recently adopted a 4 year old English Setter. In the past week I have noticed he only has one testicle descended (he was never neutered) and it feels as if the other testicle may be in the side of his inner thigh. Is this advisable to get removed now at his age? Is this surgery common? What signs and symptoms reveal testicular cancer in dogs?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 19th, 2017

I would definitely get Huxley neutered. He's not too old to be neutered, and given that he has a retained testicle, neutering is highly recommended. The retained testicle is more prone to testicular tumors and testicular torsion. Testicular tumors are more common in older dogs, but warning signs include swelling in the testicle, hair and skin changes, nipple enlargement, and pale gums among other symptoms. I would speak to a vet about scheduling Huxley for a neuter very soon.

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