Learning that your dog has a brain tumor is devastating, and can be extremely difficult to process. Being aware of what to expect doesn’t help you bear the diagnosis more quickly, but knowing how you can keep your pet comfortable for as long as possible can be helpful. You will no longer be concerned about the unknown and have some idea when you need to contact your family veterinarian to change your pet’s treatment plan, or when to shift to veterinary hospice care.

What is the difference between primary and secondary brain tumors in dogs?

Primary brain tumors typically grow slowly, whereas secondary, malignant, metastatic tumors and bone tumors generally progress more rapidly. Secondary brain tumors may originate from surrounding structures, such as bone and muscle, or as a primary tumor metastasis in another organ. Secondary tumors can also result when tumor emboli lodge and grow in the brain or spinal cord.

What causes brain tumors in dogs? 

As with many cancers, brain tumor development in dogs has no known exact cause. Most dogs are fully grown, or have reached senior status before developing a brain tumor, although dogs younger than a year can also be affected. Brachycephalic (i.e., flat-faced) breeds, such as boxers, Boston terriers, and bulldogs, appear to have a higher incidence of brain tumor development. 

What are brain tumor signs in dogs?

In dogs older than 5 or 6, new-onset seizures may indicate a brain tumor, but brain tumor signs vary from dog to dog. Examples include:

* Circling

* Disinterest in a favorite activity

* Disorientation

* Ignoring commands

* Failure to show excitement when seeing familiar people

* Head tilt

* Unsteady gait or wobbly movement

* Changes in vision

* Nystagmus (i.e., rapid eye movement that can cause dizziness)

* Head pressing

* Lethargy

* Panting

* Change in appetite

* Seizures

Often, the pet will first behave abnormally and then have seizures, depending on the brain tumor’s development. In other dogs with a brain tumor, the onset of seizures may be the only visible sign.

What treatment options are available for dogs with brain tumors?

Brain tumor treatments in dogs are focused on the following:

* Controlling swelling and pressure on the brain

* Controlling seizures

* Providing a good quality of life for as long as possible

Canine brain tumors can be treated with a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, depending on the tumor’s size and location. Partial or complete surgical removal can be particularly challenging, so radiation or chemotherapy are often needed as adjunctive therapies. 

Dogs whose brain tumor causes seizures are also typically given anti-epileptic medication (i.e., phenobarbital, levetiracetam, or potassium bromide), and a steroid may be recommended to reduce brain swelling and pressure.

What is the prognosis for a dog with a brain tumor?

Without treatment, a dog with a brain tumor may live for several months. For dogs treated with a single method, the median survival time is 6 to 10 months. Dogs who undergo surgery and radiation live longer than those who receive only one therapy and may live up to 16 months. 

What can I expect in my dog’s final stages?

When surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can do no more, and palliative measures no longer help, you may notice in your dog frequent seizures, serious behavior changes, nystagmus, disorientation, increased vocalization, weight loss, and anorexia. These signs show they are struggling and probably not experiencing a good quality of life. 

Dogs with a brain tumor can suffer severely from neurological issues and disorientation, and our ability to end their suffering in this situation can be the purest act of love.

If your beloved dog has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, consider supporting them until the end with veterinary hospice care. Then, when the time comes, contact Lap of Love to schedule a peaceful passing with in-home euthanasia.