What is Dog Cancer?

What is Dog Cancer?

• Dog cancer begins with neoplasia: when cells in the body grow abnormally and uncontrollably

• Not all neoplasms are dangerous, but some become malignant: they invade nearby tissues and can spread to other parts of the body - these are what we commonly refer to as cancers

• Unfortunately, cancer is common in dogs:

  • About 1 in 4 dogs will develop neoplasia during their lifetime

  • Over 50% of dogs older than 10 will develop some form of cancer

• Just like in humans, cancer in dogs can vary in type, location, and severity: early detection and personalized treatment matter in the prevention or treatment of cancer

Common Types

There is a vast range of cancers that could potentially affect your dog. However, some are more common and worth being especially aware of:

• Lymphoma

  • Also known as lymphosarcoma, lymphoma is the enlargement of lymph nodes in various parts of the body. It often appears along the jaw, shoulders, armpits, groin, or behind the knees. Lymphoma is rarely curable but can be managed with treatment. A typical regimen includes medications such as prednisone, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and doxorubicin, though the exact plan will depend on further testing and your dog’s condition.

• Osteosarcoma

  • Osteosarcoma is a bone cancer most commonly found in the limbs of large and giant breed dogs. Signs include lameness and swelling at the cancer site. Because it can spread to the lungs, imaging tests may be needed. Treatment often involves amputation and chemotherapy, though alternatives like radiation or limb-sparing surgery may be available. This cancer is almost always fatal, but treatment focuses on extending life and maximizing comfort.

• Mast Cell Tumors

  • These are the most common form of skin cancer in dogs. They typically appear as swelling on or under the skin, but can also be found in the chest or abdominal cavities. Many mast cell tumors can be cured through surgical removal, though radiation or chemotherapy (using drugs like vinblastine, prednisone, or Palladia) may be needed. Even when not curable, treatment can greatly improve a dog’s quality of life.

• Soft Tissue Sarcomas

  • These tumors grow slowly and can appear anywhere in the body. External tumors may be detected early as non-painful masses but internal ones often go unnoticed until they are large. Treatment usually involves surgery, possibly followed by radiation to prevent regrowth. In more aggressive cases that spread to the lungs or other organs, chemotherapy or other therapies may be considered.

• Oral Tumors

  • Oral cancers vary from benign to malignant. Signs include bad breath, drooling, difficulty eating, bloody discharge, or facial disfigurement. Benign tumors can be removed surgically. For malignant ones, like melanoma, treatment may include jaw surgery, radiation, and immune therapies like vaccinations. Even when not curable, these treatments can help dogs live comfortably.

• Nasal Tumors:

  • These affect the nasal cavity and can cause symptoms like nosebleeds, sneezing, facial swelling, or eye displacement. Because other conditions can cause similar signs, further testing is needed. Surgery is rarely effective on its own due to the complexity of the nasal cavity, so radiation therapy is the most common treatment. Chemotherapy may be added depending on the tumor type. While most nasal tumors can’t be cured, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.

These are only some of the most common cancers that could possible affect your dog, and it’s impotant to note that this is not a comprehensive list and that there are many other types that may occur. These are simply some to look out for as they have a higher likelihood of arising, and if you notice any unusual symptoms in your dog, it’s best to consult your veterinarian for guidance and further diagnosis.