Dogs, like humans, can sometimes get lumps and bumps growing on or under the skin. Many of the these are not cancerous growths, but some may be. The cause of cancers growing on the skin or in the tissues under the skin in dogs are not well understood.
The appearance of lumps and bump on a dog can vary from normal skin that is raised to a bleeding or ulcerated growth that looks red and angry. It is not possible to tell just from the appearance of a lump whether it is cancerous or benign (a lump that does not spread). Cancerous lumps can grow rapidly and some can spread to other parts of the body (metastasise).
The only way to tell what the lump is, is to take a sample with a needle (Fine Needle Aspirate) or a biopsy (a larger sample usually done as a surgery) and then have the sample analysed under a microscope. A Fine Needle Aspiration can be done during a consultation and is not painful for the dog.
Most lumps and bumps look pretty similar on external appearance, making microscopic examination necessary.
Once the lump is identified, the most suitable treatment plan can be made. Benign lumps may either be left alone or removed surgically. Malignant lumps need more careful surgery to remove some of the tissue around the edges of the lump to reduce the risk of the lump returning or spreading. It’s good to know the type of lump being removed before surgery so the dog does not need a repeat surgery.
If you notice a lump or bump on your dog, please have it checked, this will provide you with piece of mind, knowing what the lump is and how to best treat it.