Tumors & Cancer in Dogs
Many people are surprised to learn that just like in people, cancer in dogs is a real problem. An Italian study from the journal BioMed Central Veterinary Research estimated that out of every 100,000 dogs, 800 to 900 will develop cancer. Dogs older than 10 and purebreds are at increased risk compared to mixed breeds.Cancer affects dogs in the same way that it affects humans: stealing quality of life and years away from our furry friends. However, many treatments are available and veterinary research continues to improve every dog’s possibilities at a long and happy life. Learn how to spot the signs so that you and your veterinarian can give your pup the best possible care if he ever needs it.Cancer in pets can occur due to environmental, genetic or lifestyle factors.
Dogs are beloved members of our families and are frequently our most loyal of friends, and our veterinary team understands how distressing it can be to learn that your dog has cancer. While no one wants to think about their dog becoming unwell knowing what the signs of cancer are in dogs, could help you to spot the disease early when treatment is most effective.
While some tumors in dogs are linked to cancers that cannot be treated successfully, many forms of cancer can be treated and allow your dog to go on to live a good quality of life for months or years. Here are some of the most common types of tumors and cancers that our Ambler vets see in dogs, and how these tumors can be treated:
Histiocytoma
Typically seen in dogs under three years of age, Histiocytoma tumors are generally benign and rarely spread to other parts of the body.
Histiocytoma tumors are often referred to as button tumors because they are usually less than an inch in size, red, raised, and hairless. Often seen in English Bulldogs, Scottish Terriers, Greyhounds, Boxers, Boston Terriers, and Chinese Shar-Peis these tumors typically regress on their own within two to three months. That said, removal may be recommended for histiocytomas if they are particularly bothersome to your pet.
Papilloma
Papilloma tumors are benign tumors that look like warts in dogs, although they can be uncomfortable and problematic for your pooch. If an infection develops, multiple hard, pale, cauliflower-like warts may be seen on your dog’s lips, inside the mouth, and around the eyes. These tumors can be painful and severe infections can make chewing and swallowing difficult for dogs with papilloma.
Papillomas generally go away after a few weeks, although it can take months. If your dogs has Papilloma tumors that are causing them discomfort your vet or veterinary oncologist may recommend surgery. Because these tumors are caused by a virus (papillomavirus) transmission can occur through direct contact with an infected dog or contaminated objects such as bedding or toys. Be sure to keep affected dogs isolated from unaffected ones, the incubation period often lasts months, so by the time symptoms make themselves known, it might have already spread to other dogs in a household.
Mast Cell Tumor
Mast cell tumors are one of the most common skin cancers seen in dogs. These tumors tend to grow quickly and can be red and itchy, and are often seen in short-faced dogs such as pugs, french bulldogs, and boxers. Shar-Peis are known to be susceptible to an aggressive form of mast cell tumors.
Surgical removal is the primary treatment for mast cell tumors in dogs, although depending on the location it can be difficult for your vet to ensure that the entire tumor is removed. If diagnosed early surgery can be a very successful treatment. That said, it is important to send the tumor to a pathologist to be graded in order to determine how aggressive the cancer is, and whether further treatments are required.
Melanoma
Melanoma tumors typically appear as darkly pigmented patches of skin. These tumors will often be found in and around the dog’s mouth or on the dog’s feet. Melanoma is prone to spreading quickly to other areas of the dog’s body and tends to be malignant. Sadly these tumors will often metastasize to places such as the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, or other internal organs.
If your dog is diagnosed with melanoma the treatment recommended by your vet, or veterinary oncologist, will likely include a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer)
Osteosarcoma is the most common form of bone cancer in dogs. Although any breed can be affected by this type of cancer, our vets most often see osteosarcoma in larger breeds especially Greyhounds and Great Danes.
The primary symptom related to this form of bone cancer in dogs is limping.
Treatment for osteosarcoma in dogs is typically amputation of the affected limb followed by chemotherapy, however, in some cases if the tumor is detected early limb saving surgeries are available that involve the removal of only the affected area of the bone.
Hemangiosarcoma
This form of cancer is very serious and requires emergency intervention or it may be quickly fatal!
Hemangiosarcoma tumors in dogs can grow quite large and are often found in the spleen, but may grow anywhere blood vessels are present and can spread to other organs, including the dog’s heart and lungs.
Dogs with hemangiosarcoma tumors may show signs such as pale gums, labored breathing and an inability to stand up.
Treatment for hemangiosarcoma in dogs usually includes treatment to address internal bleeding, the surgical removal of the spleen, and chemotherapy following surgery.
Fibrosarcoma
This is a slow-spreading form of cancer in dogs but can be difficult to treat.
Amputation and radiation are commonly used to treat dogs with fibrosarcoma, in order to prevent a recurrence.
Lymphoma/Lymphosarcoma
Lymphoma is a very common form of cancer in dogs and there are more than 30 types of lymphoma which dogs can develop. In fact, lymphoma is a generic term used by vets to describe a group of cancers that stem from a type of white blood cell called lymphocytes that help the immune system to fight off infection. The most common types of dog lymphoma are, multicentric, alimentary, mediastinal and extranodal lymphoma.
Signs of lymphoma in dogs include swelling under the jaw, in front of the shoulders and behind the knees. Lethargy, decreased appetite, and coughing may also accompany swollen lymph nodes.
Following a diagnosis of the type of lymphoma and staging, your vet may recommend chemotherapy to treat this form of cancer.
One of the most common cancers in dogs is lymphoma. This cancer is caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the lymph nodes and other organs.
There are several early warning signs that you may need to look out for if your dog has cancer. These signs include changes in appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst or panting, and a decrease in activity. If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it is important to take him to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Lymphoma is a serious cancer and can quickly spread to other parts of the body. If it is not treated immediately, it can lead to death. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the early warning signs and take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice them.
- Lumps and bumps underneath your pet’s skin
In order to check for sudden lumps and bumps under the skin, you can lightly run your hands across your dog’s skin in a slow manner without pressure. Unfortunately, a lump’s cancerousness cannot be determined by touch, thus it is preferable to get it examined by a veterinarian.
It’s fantastic if you can teach your dog to be able to look at its feet because lumps can develop on any region of its body, including between the toes.
- Abnormal odours from the mouth, ears, or other parts of your dog’s body
Abnormal odours coming from your dog’s mouth, ears, or other regions of the body are some of the typical indicators of cancer in dogs. It’s crucial to have your dog checked out by a veterinarian right away if you detect any unexplained changes in their behaviour or look.
Calling your veterinarian should be your first step if you suspect cancer in your dog. A physical examination and blood samples for cancer testing will be possible. It’s crucial to look after your dog when they’re having treatment if they have cancer. Make sure they have adequate food and drink, and plenty of delicious veggie treats for dogs.
To check if it’s just a dental hygiene issue for your dog, check out these amazing natural dental sticks for dogs that make stinky breath go away!
- Non-healing wounds or sores
If your dog’s wounds or sores persist or don’t heal, it may be an indication of cancer in dogs. Your dogs’ immune system is compromised or overworked from fighting another infection. Cancers can sometimes resemble lesions that don’t heal.
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
Rapid weight loss or loss of appetite are symptoms of cancer in dogs.
This can sometimes be a sign of dental or other medical problems, but it can also be an indicator of something more serious. It may also be caused due to stomach tumours in your dogs, especially if it’s unusual for your dog or occurs in conjunction with other warning signs of canine cancer. If it’s just a dental issue your dog is facing, check out these amazing natural dental sticks for dogs that make their teeth stronger than ever and tartar free!
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
Another sign of tumours in dogs is coughing. One of the most common cancers in dogs is cancer of the pharynx (or larynx). The cancerous cells can grow quickly and may cause coughing, difficulty breathing, and weight loss. They may also be caused due to sudden lumps in your dog’s throat. If you notice any of these signs in your dog, please take them to the vet for a check-up as soon as possible. Early detection is key to saving your dog’s life!
- Increased drinking or frequency of urinating
One of the most common cancers in dogs is cancer of the bladder. It may even be caused due to the growth of a tumour in your dog’s mouth. If you are noticing any changes in your dog’s drinking or urination habits, it is important to get them checked out as soon as possible!
- Difficulty in swallowing
Difficulty in swallowing can be a symptom of cancer in dogs. This may be caused due to a tumour in your dog’s mouth. If your dog is showing signs of difficulty swallowing make sure you seek propeller medical attention.
- Changes in bathroom habits
Another on the list of symptoms of cancer in dogs is a change in toilet schedule. If you notice any of the following changes in your dog’s bathroom habits, it is important to visit the veterinarian:
- Your dog suddenly starts using the bathroom more often or in new places
- Your dog exhibits difficulty walking or standing after being toileted
- Your dog has blood in their urine or faeces
- You notice a lump, swelling, or change in your dog’s appearance that could be related to cancer
- Evidence of pain
There are a few early warning symptoms of cancer that you may want to be aware of. These include changes in your dog’s eating habits, changes in his drinking habits, changes in his sleep habits, and changes in his behavior.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it is important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough exam and test your dog for cancer.
If you observe any of these signs in your dog, it is important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough exam and test your dog for cancer.
- Lethargy
There are a few early warning signs that you should be aware of if your dog seems to be experiencing decreased energy levels. These symptoms may include lying down for long periods of time, not getting up when you call them, difficulty eating or drinking, and swelling around the mouth or neck area. If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it is important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. A diagnosis of cancer can often be confirmed by performing a biopsy on the affected area.
- Collapsing
We all love our furry friends and we want them to be healthy and happy. Unfortunately, cancer is a common disease in dogs. Cancer frequently manifests as collapsing, weakness, and overall lethargy (not extending a friendly greeting at the door as usual or interacting less). Even if large breed dogs trip and seem better the next day, it could indicate a splenic tumour.
Signs & Symptoms of Cancer in Dogs
It can be difficult to detect signs of cancer by simply looking at your dog. In fact, even blood work often cannot detect certain cancers in dogs. That said, there are some signs that you can watch for that can indicate your dog may have cancer. As with people, early detection is the key to positive treatment outcomes when it comes to cancer in dogs. If your dog is displaying any of the following signs, make an appointment to see your vet as soon as possible.
- Sores that don’t heal
- Bleeding or discharge
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Strong odor
- Swelling
- Lumps or bumps beneath the skin
- Lethargy, depression, disinterest in exercise
- Difficult or painful breathing or coughing
- Straining when going to the bathroom
- Challenges when eating or swallowing
- Pain or difficulty walking, lameness or stiffness
Diagnosis
It is essential to be aware of changes in your dog’s behavior and pay attention to any bumps or lumps you may feel while petting and grooming your dog. If your canine friend is displaying one or more of the symptoms listed above, make an appointment to see your vet immediately.
Dog Cancer Treatment Options
Cancer in dogs is a common problem, and there are many treatment options available. Because dog and human cancers are so similar, much of the research in human cancer treatment has already been done in dogs, and nearly all of the options for human oncology treatment are available for canine patients, as well.
The treatment for cancer in dogs depends on the type of cancer and whether it is likely to spread. If a tumor is malignant, then treatment and prognosis depends on how far it has spread. The location of dog tumors can also influence what treatment your vet prescribes.
With the results from the tests in hand, your vet may recommend one or a combination of the following treatments:
- Chemotherapy: The chemotherapy may be localized with injections or intravenous.
- Radiation therapy: A vet uses controlled radiation to treat your dog’s cancer.
- Surgery: Certain cancers can be removed via surgery.
- Drugs: According to the FDA, there are three drugs approved to treat cancer in dogs: Palladia tablets (for mast cell tumors), Stelfonta injections (for mast cell tumors), and Tanovea-CA1 injections (for lymphoma). A fourth drug, Laverdia-CA1 (tablets), was conditionally approved to treat lymphoma in 2021.11
- mmunotherapy: With this newer treatment, a vaccine created using your dog’s tumor cells is injected into your dog in an effort to trigger the dog’s own immune system to attack the cancer cells
Common Dog Cancer Terminology
Talking about cancer with your veterinarian can be overwhelming, and terminology may be difficult to process as you’re grappling with a difficult diagnosis. Some terms are used interchangeably, but when you are talking with your vet, it’s important to understand why they say what they say. The type of growth your dog has will affect how they’ll treat that particular cancer. There are three terms you should know when discussing this diagnosis: tumor, neoplasia, and cancer.³
- Tumor: Sometimes called a “mass,” a tumor is the actual swelling of the physical appearance of the neoplasm that either be benign or malignant.³
- Neoplasia: An uncontrolled growth of cells or tissues.³ Sometimes it forms a tumor that looks or feels like a firm bump. Other times, neoplasm isn’t firm to the touch. It tends to be benign and slow growing, and it rarely spreads throughout the body.
- Cancer: A term used to describe malignant tumors and neoplasms that have metastasized — meaning they can spread while invading tissues around the cancerous tissue.
These terms aren’t exhaustive, but it’s enough to get you started so you can better understand your dog’s diagnosis.
Compiled & Shared by- Team, LITD (Livestock Institute of Training & Development)
Image-Courtesy-Google
Reference-On Request.
