Effect of drugs on fertility in male dogs: A review

Reprod Domest Anim. 2022 Sep;57(9):949-956. doi: 10.1111/rda.14173. Epub 2022 Jul 5.

Abstract

The aim of this literature review was to present and discuss the available data on the positive and negative effects of drugs on male dog fertility. Apart from information on hormones and anti-hormonal agents, there is still only little information available regarding the effect of other drugs on sexual function and fertility in male dogs. A negative impact on fertility in male dogs has been reported for vincristine, cyclophosphamide, tetracycline and ketoconazole. However, preclinical safety studies of drugs for human use indicated that spermatogenesis in dogs may be sensitive to a wide variety of drugs. Thus, potential adverse effects of drugs on fertility should always be considered before their use in stud dogs. Also, in cases of reduced fertility or infertility in male dogs, previous medical treatment should be taken into account as a possible cause. In most cases, the effects of drugs on sexual function and spermatogenesis are reversible after the discontinuation of the drug. Further studies on the effects of drugs on male dog fertility are needed.

Keywords: adverse effect; drugs; fertility; male dog.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Dog Diseases* / chemically induced
  • Dog Diseases* / drug therapy
  • Dogs
  • Fertility
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Male* / chemically induced
  • Infertility, Male* / veterinary
  • Male
  • Spermatogenesis