Tumors in dogs occur very frequently, especially as a dog ages.  They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Both kinds of tumors can be harmful to your dog, though benign tumors are less likely to cause problems unless they are located in an area that will cause difficulties for your dog.  Tumors can occur on your dog’s skin and affect nearly every organ.  They can be treated in various ways, depending on how advanced they are and their location.

Causes of Tumors In Dogs

In basic terms, tumors in dogs occur when cells multiply more than usual at a site.  the growth can be fast or slow.  slow growth usually represents less of a danger to the dog and is more likely to be benign.  a fast-growing tumor is more aggressive and more likely to be cancerous.

Many different things cause tumors to begin to grow.  Some researchers theorize that preservatives in dog food, such as ethoxyquin, may stimulate the growth of tumors.  Others suggest things in the dog’s environment such as lawn chemicals, vaccinations, flea sprays, and other chemicals may cause tumors.  the truth is that nobody really knows right now, just as the causes of many human cancers are unclear.  it is probably impossible for you to protect your dog from all of the things that he encounters on a day-to-day basis which could potentially cause tumors. you should simply use caution and your best judgment to keep your dog safe.

Symptoms of Tumors in Dogs

The symptoms of tumors in dogs will vary depending on the location of the tumor.  Skin tumors are the easiest to detect since they are on the dog’s skin where you can see them.  If you groom your dog regularly you should be able to detect any skin growths, lumps or bumps that your dog develops from week to week. If your dog has a new growth that looks suspicious you should take him to the vet to have it seen about.

Internal tumors are more difficult to detect and you probably won’t know about them unless your dog displays symptoms to alert you.  you should notice general symptoms that something could be wrong with your dog such as the following:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting or coughing up blood
• Blood in the stool
• Lethargy
• Pale gums and mucus membranes
• Excessive thirst
• Increased urination

If your dog is displaying some of these symptoms he could have a serious problem that requires a vet’s attention.  Take him to the vet for a diagnosis.

Diagnosis

If your dog is displaying some of the symptoms listed above your vet may need to do a complete blood count and blood chemistry panel.  he or she may also do a urinalysis and take x-rays.  If necessary, your vet may take an ultrasound. Your vet will be checking your dog’s organs to see if there are signs of a tumor.  the exact tests involved will depend on the kind of tumor your veterinarian suspects. Your vet will also talk to you about your dog’s symptoms and his veterinary history.  And he or she will perform a physical exam on your dog.  In some cases a biopsy may be needed to take a tissue sample of a tumor, if one is found. Your vet will need to find out if the tumor is cancerous or not.

Treatment of Tumors in Dogs

If a tumor is found then your vet will need to talk to you further treatment.  Treatment will partly depend on whether the tumor is benign or malignant, the location of the tumor, and its size.  In most cases surgery is the first choice of treatment when it is possible, so that the entire tumor can be removed.  If this is not possible, then other options are explored, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

You may wish to talk to a veterinary oncologist to make sure you are getting the most up-to-date information about your dog’s treatment options.

Your dog’s prognosis will depend on many factors including his general health, age, the size and location of the tumor, and how advanced it is, as well as what kind of treatment is available. Tumors in dogs are often successfully treated and many dogs live long, healthy lives after they are removed.

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