Monorchidism
Monorchidism is a rare developmental condition
in which a male dog only develops one testicle. This condition is often
confused with unilateral cryptorchidism. In the case of unilateral cryptorchidism,
the dog has two testicles, however, only one testicle descends into the
scrotum, while the other is permanently retained in the abdomen.
Monorchidism is usually confirmed by plasma
testosterone analysis. The plasma testosterone level is significantly lower
in a dog which lacks a testicle than it would be in a dog with a retained
testicle.
Monorchidism is a genetic fault. Dogs exhibiting
this condition should never be used for breeding and should be neutered.
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