Cancer In Dogs

The Samoyed was a beautiful dog, and just one look at his face told you there was something wrong. One cheek was more distended than the other. On palpation, a tumor larger than a golf ball had been growing in the dog’s mouth for some time. His owners only noticed that he had stopped eating and started walking into walls (a neurological sign). After much inspection, it was found that the cancer had metastasized well into the dog’s skull, and she had to be euthanized. The veterinarian was distraught because she felt that the dog could have had a longer life, or at least more humane existence, with treatment if the owner’s had noticed the growth long before the dog stopped eating.

Cancer—it’s a frightening word to hear whether regarding a friend or the family pet. Dogs, like people, can get cancer. But just like for people, there are therapies to help reduce, cure or maintain dogs that have been diagnosed with cancer.

Numerous types of cancer can afflict dogs. Depending on the type of cancer, treatments exist such as chemotherapy or radiation. Mast cell tumors are small skin cancers that can be either malignant or benign. Sometimes treatment may require removal of the tumors to prevent further spread. Other cancers include hemangiosarcoma, cancer of the blood vessels, or lymphoma, which attacks the lymph nodes or other organs.
Dogs that have not been spayed or neutered are at greater risk for developing cancers of the reproductive tract organs such as mammary gland or testicular tumors. In fact, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in older, unneutered dogs. You can reduce your dog’s chances of suffering these types of cancers by spaying or neutering the dog.

Osteosarcoma, or bone cancer, is more likely to attack large breed dogs. In fact, many experts believe that large heavy dogs (like the Great Pyrenese or St. Bernard) are more than 60% more likely to develop this cancer than their smaller peers. These bony growths usually occur on the legs below the elbow or knee joints. This type of cancer is aggressive, and though there are medications that can attack the cancer, dogs may require amputation of the affected leg to prevent metastasis.

Signs of Cancer

Growths are the usual sign of cancer; however, numerous other signs can accompany tumor growth including weight loss, hair loss, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, wheezing or shortness of breath, listlessness, pain, etc. If your dog has growths, look for other signs.

Cancer Treatment

Therapies exist such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Your dog may have a successful outcome if he is diagnosed with cancer. Regardless of whether there is a treatment for your dog’s cancer, your top goal is to keep him comfortable and pain free. Pain-relieving medications can keep him more comfortable. Make sure his living environmental, especially sleeping area, is comfortable and stress-free—like a soft dog bed in a quiet room.

Just as for people, cancer therapies have progressed for pets. Though your dog may be diagnosed with cancer, his cancer may be benign or treatable. The goal is to pay close attention to your pet’s body and  behavior so you know when a growth appears or when something is bothering your pet. Know the changes in his body, and seek veterinary care when such signs appear