Conditions of the Reproductive System (male)

What is the medical term for prostate gland enlargement?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

Which dog breeds are commonly affected by cryptorchidism?

Boxer, Shetland Sheepdogs, toy/miniature poodle, Pomeranian, Chihuahua, Miniature Dachshund, Miniature Schnauzer.

What hormone influences prostate gland enlargement in dogs?

Testosterone and its active metabolites (dihydrotestosterone)

Conditions of the male Reproductive tract

Neoplasia
Disorders of the: penis, testicles, testes, scrotum

Cryptorchidism

Failure of one or both testis to descend into the scrotum by 8 weeks of age.

Where can the testis be retained in cases of cryptorchidism?

In the abdominal or inguinal canal.

Is cryptorchidism hereditary?

Yes, it can be hereditary.

What is cryptorchidism?

A condition where one or both testicles are retained in the abdominal cavity or inguinal canal.

What is the risk associated with a retained testicle in cryptorchidism?

Increased risk of neoplasia.

What is required for a retained testicle in cryptorchidism?

Removal of the retained testicle.

Is prostate gland enlargement common in ageing entire male dogs?

Yes, it is very common.

By what age will more than 50% of entire male dogs show signs of prostate gland enlargement?

By 5 years old

What may occur secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia?

Prostatic cysts

What may cause prostatic enlargement cause?

- May show no clinical signs​
- Tenesmus (straining during defecation or urination) - enlarged prostate pressed on colon and on urethra ​
- Haematuria​
- Haemospermia​
- Bleeding​
- Serosanguinous urethral/preputial discharge

What is Tenesmus caused by?

The enlarged prostate pressing on colon and on urethra

What is one method used in the diagnosis of prostatic enlargement?

History / clinical signs

What is assessed during a physical examination for prostatic enlargement?

Digital palpation: Enlarged but smooth & symmetrical prostate

What imaging techniques can be used to diagnose prostatic enlargement?

Radiography / Ultrasound

What types of tests are performed on prostatic secretions for diagnosis?

Culture and cytology

What is the first choice treatment for prostatic enlargement?

Castration

How long does it take for the prostate to return to normal size after castration?

6-12 weeks

What medication is used to reduce the amount of dihydrotestosterone in breeding dogs?

Medication to reduce dihydrotestosterone

What is the effect of medication on prostate gland size in breeding dogs?

Some decrease in prostate gland size

What is the effect of medication on the volume of semen produced in breeding dogs?

Some decrease in volume of semen produced

Does medication to reduce dihydrotestosterone impact libido in breeding dogs?

No impact on libido

Does medication to reduce dihydrotestosterone affect fertility in breeding dogs?

No impact on fertility