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Getting Swollen Testicles in Dogs
Written By hannah hollinger
Published: 07/19/2017Updated: 05/29/2021
Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon, MVB MRCVS
What are Getting Swollen Testicles?
Testicles (also called testes or gonads) on a dog are the male sex glas which are located behind the penis. When they are swollen, they are enlarged, more firm, sometimes discolored and frequently very painful. This condition in dogs is called orchitis (or epididymitis) and there are several reasons for it:
- Trauma
- Infection
- Testicular torsion
- Testicular neoplasia
- Canine brucellosis
- Scrotal hernia
Why Getting Swollen Testicles Occurs in Dogs
Swollen testicles can be a very painful experience for your male canine and, if left untreated, this condition can be dangerous for him. Potential causes include:
Trauma
This can be any blunt or penetrating injury to the testicles or scrotum. The penetrating wound can open up an opportunity for infections to develop. It is possible for trauma to cause an immune-mediated inflammation (or orchitis) and the body’s own immune system then turns on itself and causes inflammation and testicular damage.
Infection
This can be caused by bacterial organisms, fungal organisms or viral organisms which find their way into the testicles. These infections can enter via the external environment, the urinary system or from the prostate.
Testicular Torsion
This is a twisting of the testicle on its spermatic cord. This is relatively uncommon in dogs but, when it does occur, it is very painful.
Testicular Neoplasia
Testicular neoplasia is a common malady in male dogs as they age. There are three which normally are found: Sertoli cell tumor, Seminoma, and Leydig (interstitial) cell tumor.
Canine Brucellosis
Brucellosis is a systemic bacterial infection which shows up in your male dog as epididymitis, orchitis, prostatitis, testicular atrophy and infertility. It is very hard to treat successfully.
Scrotal Hernia
A scrotal hernia is a condition in which some abdominal contents move into the scrotum.
What to do if your Dog is Getting Swollen Testicles
If you notice that your male dog’s testicles appear to be enlarged or discolored, an examination is in order. If you are able to examine him, you need to look for any obvious wounds on either or both of the testicles of your pet.
Veterinary medical assistance is necessary as soon as possible for any of the possible reasons for the occurrence of swollen testicles in your dog. Infections will need to be treated, masses will need to be investigated and potentially removed or repaired and castration may be required to ensure the safety of your pet. All of the potential causes for swollen testicles are serious enough that your pet needs medical assistance sooner rather than later to avoid permanent injury.
Prevention of Getting Swollen Testicles
When it comes to prevention of swollen testicles, there really aren’t many things a pet owner can do to prevent some of the causes from afflicting their pet other than surgical castration at a young age.
The statistics report that about half of unneutered dogs contract testicular cancer. The only true way to prevent testicular cancer in your dog is to have him neutered, taking away the testicles where the cancer can develop. At the very least, if your pet is not neutered, be sure avail him of regular examinations of the testicles by your veterinarian at every opportunity that you can. If cancer develops, castration is the only treatment.
Infections in the urinary tract and prostate can be prevented by castrating your dog (which reduces the size of the prostate) and ensuring they stay well hydrated.
Protecting your dog from injury to the best of your ability when he is playing or exercising will help to prevent any complications from trauma and any immune-mediated inflammation which will result from them.
Cost of Getting Swollen Testicles
Treating the causes of swollen testicles will be required to avoid more serious health concerns for your pet. Here are some of the costs for this treatment:
- Testicular swelling treatment costs can range from $200 to $1,500
- Testicular neoplasia treatments costs can run from $400 to $1,200 (for Sertoli cell tumor, Leydig Cell Tumor and Seminoma)
- Testicular Torsion treatment can cost $500 to $2,000
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Getting Swollen Testicles Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Maltese
Seven Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Redness
My dog recently had a hair cut. The next day his testicle area was swollen and red-so I put a cone on him to prevent him from licking it. It’s still red and I’m worried about it.
Aug. 30, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. It is difficult to say, without seeing the area, if it will get better. It may have gotten a little irritated from the grooming, and if so, keeping his cone on for a day or two should help. If it hasn't gotten better after that points, he may need some medication, and then it would be best to have your veterinarian take a look at it. I hope that everything goes well and he feels better soon.
Aug. 30, 2020
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Terrier Mix (Boston and Cairn)
3 years 4 months
4 found this helpful
4 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Slightly Swollen Testicles
Hi, my dog just yesterday was licking at his genitals and when I looked to see what was wrong, it was like the scrotum was slightly puffy/swelled. His testicles are always darker in color, but with the puffed scrotum they now have little bumps. I do not have a set vet because I was going to a Vet Clinic to get him checked up on every so often and for his shots. I was just wondering if this is something that needs to be handled immediately, like tomorrow, or if it can wait a few days or even a week. Many places right now are impossible to get appointments with everything going on.
Aug. 9, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
4 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. If you are able to keep him from licking at his scrotum, the inflammation or 'puffiness' may go away. If he continues to lick at it, there may be a bacterial infection or disease that needs attention, and making an appointment would be a good idea. At this point it does not sound like an emergency, although if he becomes painful, or the swelling is worsening dramatically, then having him seen at an ER would be a good idea.
I hope that all goes well for him!
Aug. 11, 2020
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Pitbull black lab mix
Seven Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Swollen Balls, Butthole Wet,
Forehead cold, nose real cold and wet
Aug. 4, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
1 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Dogs can get infections or cancer of the testicles, prostate disease, or torsions. If you are noticing that your dogs scrotum is swollen, it would be best to have him seen by a veterinarian right away. they will be able to examine him, see what might be going on, and get any treatment needed so that he feels better.
I hope that he is okay.
Aug. 4, 2020
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Aidi
Two Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Redness
My dog is acting different a.m. checking him out I see his testicles have a couple little scabs on them Any appear to be a little red
July 26, 2020
Answered by Jessica N. DVM
0 Recommendations
Hello-
Thank you for your question. I do see the irritation that you are describing from the picture. He may have allergies, a skin infection, or occasionally they do have issues with a testicular torsion. It would be best to have the skin examined by your veterinarian, and they can test for infection, palpate the testicles to make sure all feels normal and get him medication to help with his discomfort. I hope feels better soon.
July 26, 2020
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