8 FAQs about Cancer in Dogs: Expert Answers 2025

Cancer is a distressing diagnosis for any dog owner. Understanding it better can ease your worries and help you provide the best care for your pet. This article answers eight of the most frequently asked questions about cancer in dogs, with the latest insights from UK veterinary experts in 2025.

Can cancer in dogs be cured?

Curing cancer in dogs depends on many factors. Some cancers can be completely cured through surgery or combination therapies like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Others may be managed to slow progression while maintaining quality of life.

Prognosis varies depending on the type of cancer, stage at diagnosis, and how your dog responds to treatment. Your vet will provide a tailored plan and realistic expectations without promising guaranteed cures, as cancer outcomes are highly individual.

Why do dogs get cancer?

Cancer arises from a variety of causes, including genetic predisposition, exposure to environmental carcinogens, viruses, hormones, and lifestyle factors such as diet and activity levels. Often, no exact cause is identifiable, and cancer develops due to a complex interplay of risks.

Will my dog need surgery if they have cancer?

Surgery is a common and effective treatment for many types of cancer, aiming to remove the tumour along with healthy margins to reduce recurrence. However, some cancers require additional treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or newer targeted therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Not all cancers are curable; some require palliative care focused on symptom management and pain relief to keep your dog comfortable.

How hard is it for a dog to live with an amputated leg?

If surgery necessitates amputation, most dogs adapt remarkably well and maintain a good quality of life on three legs. Veterinary surgeons carefully assess the risks and benefits before recommending amputation as a treatment option.

Post-operative rehabilitation and owner support are important to help your dog adjust physically and emotionally to the change.

Do dogs lose their fur when they have chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy in dogs often causes changes in fur texture and colour, with some dogs experiencing thinning or patchy fur loss. Unlike humans, complete hair loss is less common, but be prepared for some changes to your dog’s coat and whiskers during treatment.

Is cancer painful for my dog?

Whether cancer causes pain depends on the type and stage. Some cancers can be painful, but effective pain management protocols exist using analgesics, radiation, and other therapies to keep your dog comfortable.

Your veterinary team will regularly assess your dog’s pain levels and adjust treatment to maintain the best possible quality of life.

Are some types of cancer contagious to other dogs?

Cancer is not contagious and cannot be passed between dogs. However, some cancers have hereditary components and may occur in related dogs. Environmental factors shared by dogs living together may also contribute to similar risks, but this is not due to contagion.

Can I prevent my dog from getting cancer?

Complete prevention is not always possible, but reducing risk factors can help. Key steps include maintaining a healthy weight, providing sufficient exercise, feeding a balanced diet, avoiding exposure to carcinogens such as cigarette smoke, keeping vaccinations up to date, and protecting your dog from excessive sunlight.

Regular veterinary check-ups enable early detection and timely management, improving outcomes. Responsible ownership means giving your dog the best chance for a long, healthy life.

For dogs with cancer or those showing symptoms, consult a veterinary oncology specialist who can offer up-to-date treatments and quality of life care plans tailored to your pet’s needs. Support services for owners are also crucial during this challenging time.

Please remember that each dog is unique, and the advice of your vet is invaluable for personalising care and understanding your dog’s prognosis.