Dog Tumour: 11 Early Warning Signs of Cancer to look out for!



One of the most common illnesses in dogs is cancer. While there are many different types of cancer, all can be deadly if not treated early on. Even the possibility that our doggo may be ill is worrisome, let alone receiving the dreadful cancer diagnosis. However, just as with humans, it's important to recognise the symptoms quickly and take your dog to the doctor for a treatment plan. Keep an eye out for these indicators of cancer in dogs to help you spot a problem early, whether you've noticed a fatty growth on your dog or you're concerned that you have a case of canine skin cancer on your hands.

Cancer in Dogs

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.

1. 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.

2. 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!

3. 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.

4. 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!

5. 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!

6. 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!

7. 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.

8. 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

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

Summary 

If you notice any of these symptoms of cancer in dogs, your neighborhood vet will be able to undertake a more comprehensive examination to help you understand what is wrong with your pet. You can be referred to an Internal Medicine Specialist, a Surgery Specialist, or a Dermatology Specialist depending on the location and type of cancer. Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of the three may be used as treatment options. Each cancer treatment program will be individually designed for the pet while taking the family's preferences into consideration.

A sure way to get our buddies to smile a little wider would be with a delicious natural doggy treats. If you want to know more about healthy treats for your canine buddy read all about it on our blog!