Non-Cancerous Masses and Tumors

What is a non-cancerous mass or tumor?

A non-cancerous mass is an abnormal growth of cells that does not display cancer characteristics, or malignancy. Common non-cancerous tumors in dogs include sebaceous adenomas of the skin and lipomas (i.e., fatty tumors). Benign tumors can arise from many cell types, and occur anywhere in the body. Some non-cancerous tumor types can become malignant if not surgically removed.

What are common non-cancerous tumor signs in dogs?

Early signs include:

• A lump on or under the skin surface

Intermediate to advanced signs include: 

• Difficulty walking or moving around normally
• Difficulty breathing, if the tumor puts pressure on the lungs
• Vomiting or diarrhea, if the tumor is in the gastrointestinal tract
• Neurologic signs, if the tumor puts pressure on the brain
• Abdominal distension or fluid accumulation, if an abdominal tumor grows large

Your dog’s non-cancerous tumor can cause life-threatening complications if it grows large, invades nearby tissue, or interferes with normal body functions.

How are non-cancerous masses and tumors managed in dogs? 

A small, non-invasive tumor may not cause problems for your dog, and can often be monitored for changes. Surgical removal is typically recommended for tumors that grow rapidly, are invasive, interfere with normal body functions, or may become cancerous. Discussing a personalized management plan with your veterinarian, and possibly a veterinary oncologist, is important for the best outcome for your dog. 

What is the prognosis for a dog with a non-cancerous mass or tumor?

The prognosis depends on the size, location, and invasiveness of your dog’s tumor. Small, non-invasive tumors often cause few or no issues for dogs, but larger, more invasive tumors, or those that interfere with normal body functions, can cause life-threatening complications, and have a poorer prognosis. 

Management tips for dogs with a non-cancerous mass or tumor

At-home needs include:

• Easy access to food and water, and a comfortable location
• Consistency with prescribed medications
• Close monitoring for tumor growth or systemic disease signs
• Post-surgical care, as recommended by your veterinarian

For end-of-life care:

• Try to keep your dog safe and comfortable
• Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration
• Monitor for pain or discomfort
• Evaluate your dog’s quality of life with our scoring tool
• Track progression of their health with our calendar

In a crisis situation: 

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog develops loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea; has difficulty breathing, neurologic signs, seizures, or abdominal distension; or vocalizes in pain. 

Before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life, beginning end-of-life care discussions is vital. Learn more about pet hospice, in-home euthanasia, and our teleadvice service, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area, so you can feel fully prepared for this difficult time.