12 Common Canine Skin Lumps and Bumps Explained

If you’re hugging your furry friend and notice a lump or bump on its skin, you’re naturally concerned about whether it has cancer. However, most lumps are not cancerous. Nonetheless, it’s a good idea to have your veterinarian check out any new or unusual growths just to be sure. If the lump causes pain, grows rapidly, turns red or swollen, or shows signs of infection such as pus, seek veterinary treatment immediately.

As dogs age, they often develop a variety of skin conditions and unwanted growths that weren’t there before. Many of these are harmless, but it’s prudent to keep an eye out for them. Below you will find 12 of the most common small lumps and bumps on your favorite dog.

1. Skin Dysplasia

Just like humans, dogs develop harmless skin growths, especially as they age. These growths are small fibrous tumors that hang from the skin. Some dogs may have just one or two, while others may develop multiple growths on the chest, back, legs, armpits, or face. Large dogs are more likely to develop skin growths, but any breed can develop them.

2. Lipomas

Lipomas are the most common lumps in dogs. These soft, fatty tumors grow slowly and rarely spread. They can take months to change in size. While lipomas are usually harmless, if they grow too large or interfere with movement, such as being located in the armpits, your veterinarian may recommend removing them.

3. Sebaceous cysts

Sebaceous cysts are hard, round lumps caused by blocked sebaceous glands. They are similar to acne and are usually filled with a creamy substance. While they may go away on their own, some may rupture or require veterinary drainage.

4. Perianal Adenomas

These lumps form around the sebaceous glands near the anus and are more common in unneutered males, but can also occur in neutered females. Perianal adenomas are slow-growing and usually painless, but may become infected or ulcerated and require veterinary treatment.

5. Histiocytoma

Histiocytomas are red, button-shaped nodules that are usually found on the limbs of puppies. These benign tumors usually go away on their own, but still need to be examined by a veterinarian as they may resemble some cancerous tumors.

6. Hives.

Hives are sudden, itchy bumps that appear as a reaction to allergens such as plants, insect bites or chemicals. Hives are round or oval in shape and may be accompanied by redness. Mild hives usually go away on their own, but severe hives may require antihistamines or steroids, the exact medication of which will need to be determined by your veterinarian.

7. Abscesses

An abscess is a pus-filled mass caused by an infection. It usually requires drainage and flushing under sedation, followed by antibiotics. If you notice a painful, hot or oozing lump, seek immediate medical attention.

8. Warts

Warts, also known as papillomas, are tiny, feathery-growing tumors caused by the papilloma virus. They are highly contagious and are common in puppies, older dogs, or immunocompromised dogs. Although they usually go away on their own within a few months, it’s a good idea to have them examined and biopsied if necessary.

9. Mast Cell Tumor

Mast cell tumors (MCT) are the most common form of skin cancer in dogs and are especially common in breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Beagles and Boston Terriers. These tumors are very similar to other masses and therefore must be examined and diagnosed by a veterinarian.

10. Hematoma

A hematoma is a blood-filled swelling, usually caused by trauma or injury, and is commonly found in the ears of dogs. Drainage or surgical intervention may be necessary to prevent discomfort or complications.

11. Melanoma

Melanomas are dark-colored tumors that can appear on the skin or in the mouth. While some are benign, others can be malignant and require immediate treatment. Any dark-colored mass should be referred to a veterinarian for evaluation.

12. Fibromas

Fibromas are hard, benign tumors made up of fibrous tissue. They are slow growing and usually harmless, but larger fibroids may need to be removed if they interfere with your dog’s comfort or mobility.

At Zera, we know you care deeply about your dog’s health and well-being. Regularly checking your puppy for lumps and bumps is an easy way to make sure he or she is in good health. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, consult your veterinarian immediately to ensure your pet’s health. Remember, early detection and proper care are crucial for your furry friend. If you’d like to learn more about common canine health issues, check out our Guide to Canine Lumps and Bumps and when to be concerned.

Recognizing Common Lumps and Bumps on Dogs

It’s natural to be concerned when you notice a lump or bump on your dog’s skin. While many lumps or bumps are harmless, some can signal an underlying health problem. Knowing the types of lumps and bumps that may be present on your dog will help you to quickly take appropriate action when needed. Here are some of the most common skin problems on your dog:

1. Mast Cell Tumor (MCT)

Mast cell tumors are one of the most common skin cancers in dogs and can present as small, hard lumps or larger and irregular lumps. These tumors often change in size and may feel itchy or inflamed. If your veterinarian diagnoses your dog with mast cell tumors, be sure to determine if the cancer has spread to other organs so that proper treatment can be administered.

2. Melanoma

Unlike in humans, canine melanomas are not caused by sun exposure. These tumors are made up of pigment-producing cells and are classified as either benign or malignant. They usually appear as dark-colored, slow-growing lumps on a dog’s skin. Malignant melanomas are more likely to appear near the mouth or on the legs. Although recurrence is possible, surgical removal is necessary.

3. Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Soft tissue sarcomas usually form deep within the skin or muscle tissue. These tumors appear as hard, painless lumps and are common in older dogs. They often appear on the chest, legs or abdominal wall and require a veterinarian to determine their nature and treatment options.

4. Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinomas present as dry, crusty, raised sores that are usually found in hairless or lightly pigmented areas such as the nose, lips, eyelids, or vulva. Prolonged exposure to sunlight is the main cause of these tumors. Prompt removal is essential to prevent pain, deformity, and the risk of spreading to other organs or lymph nodes, which could otherwise be life-threatening.

Summarizing

These are just a few of the common causes of lumps and enlargements in dogs. While it’s tempting to speculate on the nature of the lump, only a veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis. Early detection and treatment are key to ensuring your dog’s health and comfort. Thankfully, skin cancer tumors in dogs are relatively rare, but it’s always good to err on the side of caution to prevent complications.


Related Article.

  • Lumps and Bumps in Dogs: When Should I Worry?
  • 3 Common Health Problems in Older Dogs
  • Understanding Canine Spinal Disorders
  • 5 Signs Your Dog’s Vision is Deteriorating
  • Dog Hygiene: How to Keep Your Dog’s Skin and Coat Healthy

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