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My dog only has one testicle. Is the other one missing or undescended?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 18 days old | 45 lbs

Why does my dog have 1 testicle?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on March 19th, 2018

Dogs have two testicles. Soon after they are born they descend from the abdomen into the scrotum. If only one has descended then the other testicle is retained in the abdomen. This testicle should be surgically removed since the retained testicle can develop cancer more often than the normal testicle. Usually when he’s neutered they will remove the one in the scrotum and open him up like spaying a female to remove the other one. This can be a genetic problem so I do not recommend breeding him. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Ash.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 1st, 2017

    I would be worried in that it likely means that Jerry's other testicle is retained in the inguinal canal or the abdomen. Having this testicle undescended makes him more prone to developing testicular tumors in that testicle and there is a risk of testicular torsion. It's also never recommended to breed dogs who have undescended testicles, as it is hereditary. I would have Jerry seen by a vet in the next few days to discuss having him neutered.

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