Cancer in Dogs: What Every Dog Parent Should Know
At Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital, we understand how devastating it is to hear your dog has cancer. Our team is here to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and care, helping you make the best decisions for your beloved companion.
Common Types of Cancer We See in Dogs
Dogs can develop many types of cancer, including:
- Bladder cancer
- Bone cancer (Osteosarcoma)
- Brain tumors
- Breast cancer / Mammary carcinoma
- Hemangiosarcoma (blood vessel cancer)
- Lymphoma (lymphatic system cancer)
- Liver cancer
- Malignant histiocytosis (immune cell cancer)
- Mast cell tumors (skin/soft tissue cancer)
- Melanoma (often in the mouth or skin)
- Nose and mouth cancers
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Skin cancer (including squamous cell carcinoma)
- Spleen cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid cancer
Some cancers are more aggressive than others, and early detection makes a difference.
What Causes Cancer in Dogs?
Cancer in dogs can have multiple causes, including:
- Genetics and breed predisposition
- Environmental factors (chemicals, pesticides, secondhand smoke)
- Exposure to UV light (skin cancer risk)
- Hormonal influences (especially in unspayed/unneutered pets)
- Age (cancer risk increases as dogs get older)
Often, we can’t pinpoint a single cause, but we can work to catch cancer early.
Signs of Cancer in Dogs
Watch for these possible signs:
- Unexplained lumps or bumps
- Non-healing sores
- Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite
- Bleeding or discharge from body openings
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Lameness or stiffness
- Difficulty breathing or coughing
- Changes in bathroom habits
- Lethargy or reluctance to exercise
Any persistent or unusual symptoms warrant a veterinary exam.
How is Cancer Diagnosed in Dogs?
At Willowbrook, diagnosing cancer may involve:
- Physical exam
- Bloodwork
- Fine needle aspiration or biopsy (sampling cells or tissue)
- X-rays or ultrasound
- Referral for CT scan or MRI (especially for brain or internal tumors)
- A tissue diagnosis is critical to determine the cancer type and guide treatment.
Questions to Ask After a Cancer Diagnosis
If your dog is diagnosed with cancer, ask your veterinarian:
What type of cancer is it?
- How aggressive is it?
- Has it spread?
- What treatment options are available?
- What are the goals of treatment (cure, control, comfort)?
- What are the risks, side effects, and costs?
- What is my dog’s prognosis?
We’re here to answer these questions and help you weigh your options.
Will My Dog Need to See a Specialist?
Some cancers may require consultation with a veterinary oncologist or surgeon. We’ll let you know if a specialist referral is recommended for advanced diagnostics or treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
What Does a Cancer Diagnosis Mean for My Dog?
A cancer diagnosis doesn’t always mean a poor outcome. Some cancers grow slowly or respond well to treatment, while others are more aggressive. Every case is unique, and we’ll help you understand what it means for your dog’s quality and length of life.
Prognosis for Dogs with Cancer
Prognosis depends on:
- Type and grade of cancer
- Stage (whether it has spread)
- Location of the tumor
- Overall health of your dog
Some cancers are highly treatable, while others may have a guarded prognosis.
What Should I Do if I Find a Lump on My Dog?
Contact us right away to have any new lump or bump evaluated. A simple needle test can often determine whether it’s something to monitor or remove. Early detection saves lives.
How is Cancer in Dogs Treated?
Treatment options may include:
- Surgery: Removing the tumor
- Chemotherapy: Slowing or stopping cancer cell growth
- Radiation therapy: Targeting cancer cells
- Palliative care: Managing symptoms to maintain comfort
We’ll customize a treatment plan based on your dog’s cancer, health, and your goals.
Will My Dog Need Surgery?
Surgery is often the first step for solid tumors. Some cancers can be cured with surgery alone; others may need additional treatments. We’ll discuss surgical options and risks with you.
Will Chemotherapy Be Needed?
Chemotherapy is used for cancers like lymphoma or mast cell tumors. Dogs typically tolerate chemo better than humans, with fewer severe side effects.
Is Cancer Treatment Painful for Dogs?
Cancer treatments are designed to minimize pain. We use pain management strategies and adjust therapies to prioritize your dog’s comfort and quality of life.
Can Cancer Treatment Affect My Dog’s Long-Term Health?
Some treatments carry risks of side effects like bone marrow suppression or organ toxicity. We monitor your dog closely and adjust treatment if needed.
How Can I Manage My Dog’s Pain?
We may recommend:
- Prescription pain medications
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Supplements
- Physical therapy
- Environmental modifications to support comfort
Pain management is a key part of cancer care.
What is the Success Rate of Cancer Treatment in Dogs?
Success rates vary widely depending on cancer type, stage, and treatment. Some cancers can be cured, while others can be controlled for months or years. We’ll provide realistic expectations based on your dog’s case.
What Side Effects Can Cancer Treatment Cause?
Possible side effects include:
- Mild nausea or vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- Temporary lowered immunity
- Fatigue
Most dogs experience mild, manageable side effects; severe reactions are rare.
When Should I Consider Euthanasia?
This difficult decision depends on your dog’s quality of life. Signs that it may be time include:
- Unmanageable pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of appetite or interest in life
- Incontinence or immobility
- Severe weight loss
We’ll support you in making this compassionate choice when your dog’s suffering outweighs their joy.
What Does It Mean for a Dog to Be in Remission?
Remission means the cancer is undetectable with current tests. Remission can last weeks, months, or years depending on the cancer. Continued monitoring is essential.
What If My Dog’s Cancer Progresses or Recurs?
If the cancer returns or progresses, we may adjust treatment to control symptoms, slow growth, or prioritize comfort. We’ll work with you to reassess your dog’s needs at every stage.
We’re Here for You and Your Dog
A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital is committed to compassionate, personalized care for both you and your pet. Call us at (503) 968-2911 to schedule a consultation or discuss your dog’s treatment options.