Many cancer symptoms in dogs are subtle and can be caused by another condition
Signs of cancer in dogs
The idea that our four-legged best friend might be sick is terrifying enough without the dreaded diagnosis of cancer. But just as with humans, spotting the signs early and getting your pup to the vet for a treatment plan is key. Whether you’ve found a fatty tumor on your dog, or you’re suspicious that you’ve got a case of dog skin cancer on your hands, keep an eye out for these signs of cancer in dogs to help you identify a problem early.
Coughing
Coughing doesn’t automatically signal cancer for example, small breed dogs tend to develop coughs because they have windpipe problems. “If the dog coughs once or twice, it’s of no concern, but if it continues to cough for more than a few days, that’s a concern and could signal lung cancer.
Collapsing
If your dog collapses, get to the vet immediately. Collapsing, weakness, and general lethargy (not greeting people at the door like usual or less interaction) are common signs of cancer. I see this particularly in large breed dogs even if they fall down and seem better the next day, bring them in because it could signal a tumor of the spleen.
Weight loss
Weight loss is the number-one dog cancer symptom It’s often the sign of a gastrointestinal tumor. “I’ve had a lot of dogs stop eating because of gastrointestinal tumors, so they lose weight very rapidly,” he says. Cancer can also cause dogs to lose weight while maintaining their regular appetite. If you notice your dog shedding pounds, either rapidly or slowly, make an appointment with your vet.
Mouth changes
Lumps, a strange odor, bleeding, or a change in gum color can be a sign of oral cancer, particularly in older dogs. This cancer sign in dogs often goes unnoticed for too long. “We commonly find visible oral tumors because people don’t examine their pet’s mouth, “Many oral tumors can be really devastating because people don’t find them until it’s really advanced.” He also suggests brushing on a regular basis.
Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds are never normal, “With an older dog, a nosebleed is particularly worrisome. It can be a sign of cancer in the nose,” he says. “With younger dogs, I would worry more about something like a foreign object stuck up there before cancer.
Diarrhea in bathroom habits
Occasional diarrhea usually isn’t a sign of cancer in dogs, but if it persists or gets worse, get your dog to the vet. Constantly begging to go out to go to the bathroom, difficulty peeing/moving bowels, vomiting, or blood in the urine or stool are also potential dog cancer symptoms, according to DOGGYZWORLDKENNEL.COM
Skin changes
“Every lump, bump, or skin change should be checked It could be benign or cancerous, but it’s always easier to treat the earlier it’s caught.” Feel for bumps, lumps, or swelling as you pet your pooch. If you notice something iffy, don’t delay there’s no way to distinguish between a lump that’s benign or malignant without taking a sample. Also, pay attention to any sores that won’t heal or lesions that seem itchy or painful.