What do lumps on your dog mean?
As dogs get older, it's common for them to develop lumps, also known as neoplasms. These lumps can have various causes, but often they are a type of tumour, which can be either benign or malignant. The word "tumour" simply means "lump" and doesn't indicate whether it's benign or malignant.
Benign tumours usually grow locally and don't spread to other parts of the body. Common examples include lipomas (fatty lumps) and warts.
Malignant tumours, however, can spread to surrounding tissues, lymph nodes, or internal organs. Because it's crucial to remove malignant tumours before they spread, you should always see a vet if you notice a new or changing lump on your dog.
By getting into the habit of regularly feeling your dog all over, you can spot a lump early while it's still small. Catching a lump early can mean a less traumatic procedure for your dog if it needs to be removed, and it reduces the risk of the tumour spreading.
If you feel a lump on your dog, we recommend having it examined by a vet. This is particularly important if the lump is growing rapidly. Your vet will likely take a sample to determine the type of lump. Depending on the findings, surgery may be recommended to remove it.
