Scrotal hernias in dogs should not be ruled out based on castration status and may require enterectomy

To describe the clinical presentation, surgical management, and clinical outcomes of scrotal hernias (SHs) in dogs.

21 dogs with SHs were identified by a search of medical records at 6 institutions from August 2004 to August 2024.

15 intact and 6 previously castrated male dogs with SHs were identified. Median age was 27 months (IQR, 4 to 114 months), and median weight was 7.4 kg (IQR, 4.1 to 12.7 kg). Scrotal swelling was observed on examination of 20 dogs. Clinical signs possibly related to the SH were reported in 10 dogs, most commonly vomiting or anorexia.

Abdominal radiographs, ultrasound, and/or surgical findings revealed herniation of omentum in 8 dogs, small intestine in 7 dogs, and a paraprostatic cyst in 1 dog; imaging findings were confirmed in surgery. The SH was unilateral in all cases. Eighteen dogs were managed with surgical intervention (herniorrhaphy), most commonly through a caudal abdominal approach. Three dogs required enterectomy; all presented with vomiting. Two dogs were conservatively managed, and 1 dog was euthanized without treatment due to traumatic injuries. Incisional complications were noted in 4 dogs and resolved with outpatient therapy. Median follow-up time in dogs that underwent surgery was 188 days (IQR, 15 to 1,668 days), with no hernia recurrence reported.

SHs are typically diagnosed in young male dogs, are typically unilateral, and may be diagnosed after castration in some cases. Imaging findings and clinical signs, namely anorexia and vomiting, may help determine the need for emergency surgery. Outcome following surgical repair is excellent.