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What are the health issues, surgeries, and costs for an intersex dog?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hi, we are considering adopting a male Cockapoo who is a pseudohermaphrodite and were just trying to find out what the potential problems and surgeries might be to gauge whether we can afford to adopt him.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 14th, 2017

Hi there! This will depend on your pet's specific situation. If he has testicles as well as ovaries, the will need to be removed in full to remove the hormonal influences. It would be helpful to know if he is outwardly "male" in appearance (the presence of a penis, testicles, vulva, etc). The surgeries are usually quite a bit more expensive than a regular spay and neuter but will vary based on your location. Complications from surgeries are the same as with any spay and neuter but increased in risk because of the invasive nature of multiple surgeries. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there and thank you for your post! There is certainly increased prevalence of certain symptoms / conditions in these dogs. These male dogs, also known as intersex dogs, are typically infertile and susceptible to prostatic tumors / prostatitis due to the condition. If he has not been neutered, it may be wise to get an abdominal ultrasound performed as there could be changes in the abdomen that need to be surgically addressed. Hope this helps! Please do not hesitate to contact me with further questions / concerns.

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