Inguinal and scrotal herniation in 61 dogs

Inguinal and/or scrotal herniation was diagnosed in 45 female and 16 male dogs at the Sydney University Veterinary Teaching Hospital over the period 1974-1993. The Chihuahua, Dachshund, Pekingese, Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, Pomeranian, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Maltese and Poodle breeds were all over-represented when compared with the general hospital population. The mean bodyweight of females was significantly lighter than males. The mean age of both sexes was greater than seven years. The left side was more commonly affected than the right in females. The principal clinical sign was an inguinal mass or swelling, although gastrointestinal signs were also present in six dogs. Surgical repair was attempted in 36 female and 13 male dogs, and all recovered except one female.