Understanding Salivary Gland Cancer in Dogs: Symptoms & Treatment

Cancer is a daunting diagnosis for any dog owner, and while many types exist, salivary gland cancer in dogs is a rare but serious form that typically affects older pets.

This type of cancer develops inside the mouth and can be challenging to recognise due to symptom overlap with common dental issues. Early detection is vital for successful treatment, so understanding the signs and risk factors is key to responsible pet ownership.

In this article, we explore salivary gland cancer in dogs, its symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis challenges, and treatment options to help you care for your beloved pet compassionately.

What is salivary gland cancer in dogs?

The salivary glands are found inside your dog’s mouth and are responsible for saliva production, which aids in cooling, lubrication, and digestion of food.

Dogs have four salivary glands: any one can develop cancer, most commonly adenocarcinomas and less commonly salivary gland carcinomas.

These cancers vary in growth speed from slow to more sudden and aggressive. Unfortunately, both types can spread (metastasise) to lymph nodes, lungs, or throat, complicating treatment.

Which dogs are most at risk?

Salivary gland cancer is rare and affects all breeds. Age is the main risk factor, with diagnosis most frequent in dogs over ten years old. Both male and female dogs are equally affected, and neutering has no impact on risk.

Some breeds like poodles and cocker spaniels may have slightly higher risk, but overall it remains uncommon even in these groups.

Symptoms of salivary gland cancer in dogs

Symptoms can be subtle initially, often resembling dental disease or infections:

• Foul breath even with good dental health
• Discomfort or pain swallowing, reluctance to eat
• Excessive drooling or hypersalivation
• Weight loss without clear cause
• Laboured or pained breathing
• In severe cases, changes in eye appearance, such as one eye protruding

If you notice such symptoms, especially in an older dog, prompt veterinary examination is essential, as early diagnosis greatly improves treatment success.

Challenges in diagnosis

Because symptoms overlap with common oral issues, vets must carefully rule out other causes. Palpable masses in the neck or under the jaw can sometimes be mistaken for benign swellings or abscesses.

Advanced imaging like CT or MRI aids in assessing tumour extent but is not always available in general practice. Tissue biopsy and histopathology are critical for definitive diagnosis and staging.

Accurate staging helps to identify if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs, affecting treatment decisions.

Treatment options for salivary gland cancer

Treatment can be challenging, particularly in elderly dogs. Surgery to completely remove the affected gland offers the best chance for cure if the cancer is detected early and confined.

As dogs have multiple salivary glands, removing one generally does not impair saliva production significantly.

For advanced or inoperable cases, radiotherapy or chemotherapy may help shrink tumours, slow spread, and improve quality of life, though complete remission is rare.

In cases where treatment is not viable or effective, palliative care focuses on pain relief and comfort, always prioritising the dog’s wellbeing.

Prognosis and outlook

Recent veterinary studies indicate that dogs with early-stage salivary gland cancer treated surgically can live for several years post-treatment, though local recurrence and metastasis remain risks.

Prognosis worsens with lymph node involvement. Radiation therapy can extend progression-free and overall survival, offering clinical benefits for selected inoperable cases.

Early detection and aggressive treatment improve outcomes, underscoring the importance of regular veterinary care and attentive observation, especially in senior dogs.

Promoting responsible pet care

If your dog displays any concerning symptoms, seek timely veterinary advice. Regular dental care and health check-ups can also help detect oral health issues before they become severe.

Responsible ownership means balancing treatment possibilities with quality of life considerations, always making decisions with your pet’s comfort and dignity at heart.

Though salivary gland cancer is rare, understanding it empowers you to provide the best care for your ageing canine companion.