When do a dog's testicles descend? - briefly
A dog's testicles typically begin to descend around 6-8 weeks of age and should fully descend by about 10-12 weeks. If they haven't descended by this time, it's important to consult a veterinarian.
When do a dog's testicles descend? - in detail
The descent of a dog's testicles is a critical developmental stage that typically occurs during puppyhood. At birth, male puppies usually have their testicles located within the abdomen or inguinal canal. As they grow, these testicles begin to descend into the scrotum, which is the pouch of skin underneath the tail base where the testes are normally located in adult dogs.
The process of testicular descent, known as descent or transabdominal migration, typically begins around 4-6 weeks of age and is usually complete by 8-10 weeks of age. However, it's important to note that this timeline can vary between individual dogs and breeds. Some puppies may take up to 2 months for their testicles to fully descend into the scrotum.
If a puppy reaches the age of 6 months and one or both testicles have not descended, it is considered a case of cryptorchidism. This condition can lead to health issues such as increased risk of testicular cancer and infertility, so it's crucial for pet owners to monitor their male puppies during this developmental stage. If any irregularities are noticed, prompt veterinary care should be sought to address potential complications and ensure the dog's overall well-being.