Tumors can be benign (harmless) or malignant (cancerous) and it requires a veterinary expert to identify them. There are many varieties of tumor in canines, ranging from smaller bumps on the skin to large growths on the body. Benign growths might be able to be left without interference unless the growth is large and affecting your dog’s normal behavior, for example, how he walks or sits. These growths often occur in overweight or older dogs, but they can appear as small lumps or bumps on the skin on any animal, appearing as hairless discoloured patches, or a growth the body.

There are many types of tumors, which are caused by abnormal growth of the cells and affect the skin or the tissue in your dog. 

Types 

Tumor types are diverse and many, but here are a few of the common types:

On finding a growth or lump on your dog, it is vital that you take your pet to have it checked out by a qualified veterinarian. Because of the numerous types of tumor growths, it is hard to tell just by looking and feeling the site what type of tumor growth it is. Your veterinary caregiver will consider your dog’s age and breed, and will do a careful inspection of the growth site. The best way to be absolutely sure of the type of growth is to have a biopsy of the area done (a very small sample of the tumor is taken for analysis), and from that he  can then analyse the cells that make up the lump or growth, just to make sure it is not cancerous. 

This is a quick process for your pet requiring your presence and support, and will not hurt him. From the analysis of the cells, the veterinarian will be able to see what type of growth it is and prescribe a treatment for it. If it is benign and not distressing your dog, the veterinarian might prefer to monitor the lump. This is because of the slight risks with anesthesia; some surgical complications are not worth risking the health of your dog for a benign growth. Your veterinary caregiver will advise you to monitor the tumor and report any changes.

For benign tumor growths that are small and not distressing to your dog, the veterinary caregiver may decide no treatment is necessary. This is because of several factors. 

For larger benign growths that are inhibiting the dog’s movements and causing distress, the treatment is as follows.

Simply keeping an eye on your dog to monitor any further growth may be all that is needed. This also includes making sure that it is not annoying your dog and that he is not licking and biting the lump which could cause complications with infection. If your dog does need surgery to remove the lump, he will need your help with recovery. You will be required to keep your pet calm and resting after the operation, inside in a restricted area so he cannot jump or run; lying quietly is preferred. At first your dog may refuse food but just offer little bits and plenty of water, and his appetite will return. It is vital to make sure the wound area is kept dry and clean, and to prevent your dog from licking and worrying the area. Make sure you take your dog for a follow up visit to the veterinary clinic to check the healing process.