It is important to say that if you are worried about your dogs health and they show any of the symptoms below you should contact a vet. Any information and advice given in the post is not a substitute for any help from a medical professional.
Anal Sac Tumor
This type of tumor may not always present itself and is often found at a dogs yearly check up. Dogs have an anal sac on each side and so when a tumor presents it will likely be on only one side. Other signs can be increased drinking, urination as well as lethargy and vomiting. If you want more in depth information click here.
Lipoma
Lipomas are fairly common and around 16% of dogs will develop one in their life. They are more likely to present in middle-age or geriatric dogs, with obese females most at risk. First signs are usually a small hemispherical lump, usually with hair. This will likely be soft and will have some room to move, though it can at times be firmer and more fixed in place. These are considered non-cancerous and benign but can grow to large sizes which can cause a number of issues dependent on placement. For more in depth information click here.
Grass Seed Abscess
Due to grass seeds having a sharp tip they can often penetrate your dogs skin, most often in their paws but they can develop anywhere on a dogs body. Signs will usually present themselves as swelling in the affected area often with a weeping hole, you can also expect to see your dog licking the affected area excessively. If located early enough it can often be removed during consulation. For more in depth information click here.
Warts
Warts tend to show more often in younger dogs and those who are immunosuppressed. They can be passed on between dogs so the more time spent with other dogs can increase the risk. Warts will often form around the dogs mouth or eyes and also on their feet. They can however develop anywhere. Whilst your dog has warts it is important to keep them away from other dogs as to not spread them further. For more more in depth information click here.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This cancerous growth can present itself in a number of places and will usually present as a solitary red lesion. Whilst the exact causes are unknown increased exposure to UV rays/sunlight are believed to possibly increase the risk. For more in depth information click here.
Mammary Gland Tumor
A Mammary Gland Tumor develops due to abnormal replication of cells in the breast tissue. The development of these tumors are largely tied to specific hormones that are produced, with progesterone being the main influencer. It is possible to greatly reduce the risk of this type of tumor by having a dog spay before it’s first heat. If they are spay before their first heat the risk is around 0.5% this rise to 8% and then 26% after the first and second heat respectively. This tumor presents itself often next to a nipple but it can also be along the mammary chain which runs along the dogs belly. For more in depth information click here.
Calluses
Around 20% of dogs will develop an elbow callus in their lifetime. It usually forms due to prolonged pressure from a hard surface. They are most often located on a dogs elbow (pictured) but can present in other areas which are also frequently in contact. They form to protect bony areas from the pressure of a hard surface and are more likely to form on larger dogs. The best way to avoid this is to ensure your dog has a soft place to lie. Often the reason dogs choose to like on hard floors is to cool down so ensure wherever you are encouraging them to sleep has plenty of cooling. For more in depth information click here.
Soft Tissue Sarcoma
These tumors can appear in any part of a dog due to them being developed in connective, muscle and nervous tissues. The most obvious sign of this growth will be a lump you can feel or see, due to the different effects it can have dependent other symptoms can vary. For more in depth information click here.
Mast Cell Tumor
Mast Cell tumors can form in a number of places on the dogs body. This is due to Mast cells being a white blood cell which is present throughout. Mast Cell tumors can present in a large variety of ways, they will usually be a raised lump or bum under the skin. This will usually lead to the area becoming red, ulcerated or swollen. For more in depth information click here.
Epulis Tumor
An Epulis tumor is found in a dogs mouth and is due to an overgrowth of tissue around a dogs tooth. This growth whilst benign can lead to weakening of bones around it causing fractures or loose teeth. Symptoms can present as decreased appetite, drooling, bad breath and bleeding from the mouth. For more in depth information click here.
The information provided in this article is not a substitute for visiting a trained vet. If you spot any growths or have any concerns about your dog it is important to raise this with your vet as soon as possible to help ensure early treatment.
