Kinds Of Tumors In Dogs

Know the different and most common kinds of tumors in dogs in this article. Dogs that are over 10 years of age are more likely to develop cancer and it is important, as a dog owner, to know different kinds of tumors in dogs and their possible locations to help you monitor any development of cancer. It is important to know as much as you can on the different kinds of tumors in dogs because like in many things, early detection is essential.

Lymphoma or Lymphosarcoma

This is one of the most common kinds of tumors in dogs. A recent study shows that dogs are 2 to 5 times more likely to develop lymphoma that people. This type of tumor can affect any breed of dog and at any age. Treatment options for lymphoma include a single drug or multi-drug chemotherapy. Single drug chemotherapy uses prednisone and has a quick reversal of signs and disappearances of swollen nymph mode. This lasts for 2 to 3 months before the signs return. Chemotherapy with multiple drugs is effective in most dogs (about 75% to 90%) and helps them enjoy a good quality of life for an average 12-16 months of remission.

Hemangiosarcoma

This tumor mostly affects middle-aged or older dogs of any breed. It develops from cells that line blood vessels. It is described to develop slowly and is not painful to the dog. This tumor does not show any sign until in the later part of the disease when the dog suffers from internal bleeding. Because of this, a complete cure is every unlikely. The treatment involves surgery to remove the spleen and control the bleeding but even with aggressive treatments, most dogs that develop this tumor have very slim chance of survival.

Onteosarcoma

This tumor is the most common type of primary bone tumor in dogs and affects the long bones but it can also be found in any bone. These kinds of tumors in dogs are most likely found in giant dog breeds. Onteosarcoma is known to rapidly spread and is very aggressive. Recommended treatment involves amputation to remove the primary tumor closely followed by chemotherapy. Because of the surgery, most dogs survive for 4 to 6 months and can be increased to 10 to 12 months with chemotherapy.

Melanoma

This is a tumor that is made of pigmented or dark skin cells and can be found anywhere on the dog’s body. Any breed of dog can develop this type of tumor but dogs with dark skin or hair coats have a bigger chance of developing this tumor. Melanomas behave differently depending on which part of the body they are found. Tumors developed in the mouth or on the limb such as on the foot or toes have worse outcomes or prognosis. Treatment for this type of tumor involves surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

These are just some of the many kinds of tumors in dogs, it is important to seek medical attention once your dog develops any type of these tumors. A veterinary oncologist should be able to help you with the process of treatment and help you choose the best option of treatment for your dog.