Should you worry about tumours and your aging dog?

As your dog reaches maturity and eventually old age, they are increasingly susceptible to various health issues, both mental and physical, as part of the natural ageing process.

A common concern for owners of elderly dogs is the appearance of lumps and bumps on the skin, which may be tumours. These lumps are more common in older dogs than younger ones. Importantly, not all tumours are malignant; some grow slowly and might never impact your dog's quality of life within their natural lifespan.

If you have concerns about tumours as your dog ages, this article provides insights into common age-related tumours, what they mean, and how to manage them responsibly.

Lumps and Bumps on Elderly Dogs

Lumps under the skin are fairly common in dogs and can arise from many causes. Although tumour development is more frequent in older dogs, lumps are not always cancerous. Possible non-cancerous lumps include cysts and lipomas, which are usually harmless.

The important factor is to monitor any new lumps for changes in size, shape, or discomfort, and to consult a vet promptly for an accurate diagnosis.

For more about lumps and bumps on dogs, see our previous guide.

Understanding Tumours: Benign vs Malignant

“Tumours” refer to a wide variety of growths in dogs. These can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Common tumours in ageing dogs include:

• Mast Cell Tumours: These are the most common skin tumours in dogs and can vary widely in severity. They require veterinary evaluation and sometimes biopsy to determine malignancy.
• Lymphoma: A cancer affecting the lymphatic system, often presenting with swollen lymph nodes. It is serious but can respond well to treatment.
• Osteosarcoma: A painful bone cancer, typically aggressive and affecting large breeds.
• Other types: Such as oral melanomas, mammary gland tumours (more common in unspayed females), and thyroid tumours.

Not all tumours pose immediate risk. For benign tumours that do not affect your dog's comfort or movement, a watchful waiting approach may be best, especially in very senior dogs.

What to Do if Your Older Dog Develops a Lump

If you discover a lump or bump on your senior dog, arrange a veterinary check-up as soon as possible. Your vet can:

• Diagnose the lump by physical exam and recommended tests such as biopsy or cytology.
• Determine if the tumour is benign or malignant.
• Advise on treatment options based on your dog's overall health and quality of life.

Surgery and other treatments may be more challenging for older dogs due to risks from anaesthesia and slower recovery times. If your dog is otherwise healthy, surgery to remove malignant tumours may extend their life comfortably. However, if your dog is frail, the stress of surgery may outweigh benefits.

Every decision about treatment should prioritise your dog's wellbeing and involve discussion with your vet to balance risks and benefits.

Promoting Quality of Life and Responsible Care for Senior Dogs

Monitoring your senior dog regularly, maintaining routine veterinary care, and being alert to changes such as new lumps or changes in behaviour are key to supporting their health. Responsible pet ownership also involves making thoughtful decisions about interventions, aiming always to preserve comfort and quality of life during their twilight years.

Regular vet visits and early attention to any concerns allow you to provide the best care possible for your cherished companion.