Guide Note

Dog cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. It can occur in any organ system and can proceed slowly or rapidly. The success rate of treatment strongly depends upon the type and extent of the cancer, as well as the aggressiveness of treatment.¹

Fast Facts

1. Very treatable disease²
2. The most curable of all chronic diseases²
3. Causes 50% of deaths after the age of 10³
4. Lymphoma is the most common form³
5. Dogs get cancer at the same rate as humans³
6. Cause of most cancers is unknown³

Some common signs of cancer are abnormal, persistent swellings that grow larger, loss of appetite, decreased stamina and weight loss. Other signs to watch out for include difficultly eating, swallowing, breathing, urinating or defecating.³

Hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive cancer of the blood vessels. This type of cancer is very deadly. It occurs more often in German shepherds, golden retrievers, boxers and English setters.¹

Histiocytomas are small hairless round tumors that often show up on the skin of the head. They tend to be benign and heal on their own. The usual treatment is to let the tumors run their course. If the tumor becomes irritating it is possible to remove it. This is the most common type of cancer in dogs under the age of three.¹

Lymphoma is the most common type of cancer. It begins in the lymphocytes located in the lymph nodes, spleen, liver or other organs. Early detection and treatment can lengthen life by months or years.^{1 3}

Mammary cancer is the most common type of cancer in un-spayed females. The cancer could be mild or aggressive. A good outcome is possible with early detection and treatment. Risk of mammary cancer is almost eliminated if the dog was spayed before adolescence.¹

Mast cell tumors are a type of aggressive skin cancer. The tumors are small and hard to spot. Early detection and treatment are essential for a good outcome.¹

Osteosarcoma, or bone cancer, is an aggressive cancer that often requires amputation. It is more common in larger breeds.¹

Testicular tumors are the most common type of cancer in un-neutered males. Treated by castration.¹

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think your pet has dog cancer, please consult your veterinarian.