Understanding Testicular Cancer in Dogs - Signs and Treatment

Are you feeling anxious because you suspect your male dog could have a testicular tumour? It’s only natural to worry - these types of tumours found in male dogs can feel overwhelming.

We understand the fear of missing hidden warning signs and the uncertainty around the next steps.

The good news is that by staying informed, you can catch testicular cancer early and give your pet the best chance at a healthy life.

In this article, we’ll address the causes and signs of testicular tumours and how to confidently navigate treatment options.

Key takeaways

• Testicular tumours are considered one of the most common tumours in older dogs.

• Surgical removal of the testicles is the treatment of choice for many cases.

• Cryptorchid or an undescended testicle increases the risk of Sertoli cell tumours.

• Malignant tumours can metastasise (spread) to areas like the lymph node or bone marrow.

• Physical examination and ultrasound help identify common types of testicular tumours.

• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy may support surgery in advanced cases.

• Regular vet care, plus coverage like Waggel Pet Insurance, helps manage unexpected costs.

These tumours grow in the testicular tissue, affecting one or both testicles. They appear in intact male dogs, especially those above seven years old.

Testicular tumours are considered one of the most common cancers in older, unneutered male dogs.

There are also several types of canine testicular tumours:

• Sertoli cell tumours

• Seminoma (including metastatic seminoma)

• Interstitial cell tumour (sometimes called Leydig cell tumour)

Yet, delving deeper, you’ll find Sertoli cell tumours and seminomas are among the three most common types.

Cryptorchid dogs (those with an undescended testicle) face a higher risk because the abnormal testicle tends to develop cancer more easily in the abdomen.

If you’re unsure whether neutering is right for your dog, our piece on six signs your dog needs to be neutered dives into essential considerations for responsible owners.

• Scrotum swelling or enlargement

• Firm lumps or hardness in one testicle or both

• Changes in your dog’s behaviour due to hormonal shifts (like the attraction of other male dogs)

• Signs of feminisation, such as hair loss or an enlarged mammary gland

• Signs of illness like lethargy or lack of appetite

Because testicular tumours can remain silent until they become serious, watch for any shifts in your dog’s overall vibe.

Dogs may also exhibit frequent licking of the area or mild discomfort. When in doubt, your veterinary team can conduct a physical examination - possibly with ultrasound or aspiration - to confirm the presence of anything untoward, including a particular type of tumour.

Wondering about other subtle dog health conditions? Have a look at how older dogs and increased thirst might be another indicator of underlying issues in seniors.

• Development of testicular tumours often goes unnoticed until lumps appear

• Dogs with testicular tumours may also experience hormonal changes, including increased oestrogen

• Not all tumours are malignant, but malignant tumours can spread to the lymph node

• The cause of testicular cancer can be linked to genetics and environment, yet cryptorchidism significantly raises the risk

• Treatment of choice for dogs typically involves surgical removal of the testicles (castration)

Although testicular cancer can feel random, certain risk factors boost its likelihood. Older dogs and intact male dogs who never had a neuter procedure overall face more risk.

Cryptorchid or undescended testicles create a warmer environment inside the abdomen - not the normal cool temperature of the scrotum -potentially triggering abnormal cell growth.

In some cases, these common tumours result from the presence of mutated cells of the testicle. As a dog ages, repeated cell turnover can lead to DNA errors, forming a cancer.

If the tumour produces extra testosterone or oestrogen, you might see surprising hormone-driven changes, like testicular swelling.

Surgical removal

The treatment of choice for testicular tumours in dogs is surgical removal of the testicles (castration).
Many tumours are usually addressed fully by neutering, especially if they haven’t spread.

By removing both testicles (even if only one testicle shows lumps), the dog’s hormone production decreases, which helps prevent further issues.

Additional therapies

In some cases, clinical signs indicate that the tumours may have spread. Your vet could recommend chemotherapy or even radiation therapy. The prognosis for testicular tumours varies, but they will be able to guide you through the process.

Treatment options depend on:

• The type of tumour

• The extent of metastatic seminoma or other malignant factors

• The overall health of the dog

For advanced or complicated scenarios, your veterinarian may conduct thorough blood tests, imaging, and possibly aspiration to assess the rate of spread.

Just like managing other chronic conditions, ensuring routine check-ups, maintaining a healthy diet, and monitoring for lumps or behaviour changes remain crucial.

1. Follow your vet’s instructions
After surgery, keep the incision area clean and watch for redness or unusual swelling.

2. Request regular progress checks
Sometimes, lumps come back or new ones form. Prompt detection is always good news.

3. Manage your dog’s weight
A balanced diet and routine walks help overall health. If you’d like guidance, a guide to pet weight management offers practical tips.

4. Keep an eye on hormone-driven changes
Notice if your dog is showing confusion, reduced appetite, or signs of feminisation.

5. Emphasise emotional well-being
Surgeries and vet visits can raise stress. Gentle reassurance, consistent routines, and moderate exercise benefit your dog.

Looking for personalised advice on balancing your life with a dog? Searching for a deeper connection? Our article on finding your soul pet may inspire you to reach new levels of closeness.

Facing a diagnosis of testicular cancer in your furry friend can be unnerving, but with early detection, supportive care, and the right treatment options, many dogs go on to lead full, comfortable lives.

Remember, tumours have less chance of serious harm when caught early.

Don’t wait - keep an open line of communication with your veterinarian, schedule regular wellness checks, and consider surgical intervention if recommended.

For that extra peace of mind, we recommend taking a look at Waggel Pet Insurance. Veterinary care costs can escalate quickly, especially if tumours become more complex.

Having coverage can help you focus on recovery rather than finances.

After all, we’re in this together - your pet is family, and we want you both to enjoy many happy moments with minimal worry.