Skin Cancer In Dogs

Symptoms of skin cancer vary depending on where the tumor is and what stage of development it is in. Skin cancer can consist of tumors in a hair follicle, the fat just below the skin, in the cells that produce the pigment, or in the skin itself. Skin cancer can look like a sore that does not heal, a red flaky spot, a lump, or a colored area on the skin with a strange looking border. Many dogs will first experience a lack of appetite leading to weight loss. Other symptoms could include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, coughing, or labored breathing. Often you will notice your dog continuously scratching or biting at the cancerous site because it is causing discomfort and could be itchy.

Most dogs that get skin cancer are between the ages of 6 and 14. It is possible for younger dogs to get skin cancer, but it is rare. If you notice your dog has a lump, or keeps itching at a sore that will not go away, see your veterinarian. Some tumors are benign which means there are not any cancerous cells and will not harm your dog. In order to know for sure if the tumor is malignant, which means they are cancerous and run the risk of spreading, you have to bring your dog to the veterinarian. The sooner skin cancer is detected the better the prognosis will be. It is important to examine your dog’s skin regularly. If you notice any kind of scratch or sore, keep your eye on it to make sure it heals.

The cause of skin cancer is unknown, but sun exposure can increase your dog’s risk of getting skin cancer. Dogs with short hair and light colored skin that spend a lot of time in the sun have higher chances of getting skin cancer. Certain breeds such as Boxers, Bull Mastiffs, Bassett hounds, Norwegian elkhounds, Weimaraners, Scottish terriers, Kerry blue terriers, and others are more susceptible to skin cancer, with this in mind, check your dog weekly if he/she is one of the breeds at higher risk. Make sure to check your dog’s skin regularly and if you notice anything abnormal or your dog has lost weight and is lethargic go to your veterinarian immediately.

When you take your dog to the veterinarian he/she will do a biopsy of the tumor to see if it is benign or malignant. If it turns out to be cancer you will have options for treating it. Your options would be to remove the lump surgically, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Many dogs do just fine once the tumor has been removed, so if you hear the news that your dog has cancer, do not give up!