There are things you should never do to your dog. For example, dogs should never eat grapes or chocolate, or leave them in cars on sunny days. Also, you should never ignore the possible signs of cancer in dogs . But how do you know what those signs of cancer are?

Since most people like dogs better than humans, giving dogs the best care is a priority, including looking for signs of cancer. And indeed, from skin cancer to breast cancer, cancer in man’s best friend varies just as it does in people. But knowing some of the common signs of cancer in dogs can save their lives.

While many of the following symptoms may be indicative of less serious conditions, if you notice any of them showing up in your dog, you should speak to your vet. Read below to learn more.

Breast cancer in dogs

As with humans, female dogs can develop tumors in their mammary glands. And in recent years, female dog breast cancer has been on the rise. Malignant and benign tumors often develop in bitches that have not been spayed.

Bone cancer in dogs

Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer in dogs. Its growth rate is high and its symptoms are often subtle, but can include swelling, lameness, and joint pain. Also, in some cases, lethargy and loss of appetite can be symptoms of bone cancer in dogs.

Dog skin cancer

Dog skin cancer can also easily go unnoticed, as your dog’s coat may be hiding signs. Make sure that when you pet your dog, you feel any abnormalities, such as lumps, bumps, or swelling if there are any. If caught early enough, many forms of dog skin cancer can be treated successfully. Be on the lookout for these and other symptoms of cancer in your dog.

11 signs of cancer in dogs that you should know if they are your pets

Here are 11 symptoms of cancer in dogs that you should never ignore:

1. Collapse

Cancer symptoms in dogs begin with the terrifying sight of your dog collapsing. If you see that your dog collapses, you should immediately take him to the vet. Collapse, as well as weakness and lethargy, are common signs of cancer. What does lethargy look like? Watch for changes in their behavior. For example, if your dog is generally excited when a guest is at the door, but suddenly stops showing interest, take it as a sign of possible lethargy.

2. Tos

Another sign of dog cancer is a cough. Keep in mind, however, that this symptom does not immediately mean cancer. Some small breeds of dogs can develop a cough due to problems with their windpipes. And there are other conditions that could cause your dog to cough. However, sometimes coughing can be a sign of lung cancer in dogs. A cough here and there, once or twice, is not a concern. If it persists, that is when it is cause for concern.

3. Weight loss

This is perhaps the most prominent sign of cancer in dogs. Weight loss may indicate a gastrointestinal tumor. Also, you may notice changes in their appetite. If you notice that your dog has lost interest in eating or has lost weight quickly, talk to your vet as soon as possible.

4. Nosebleeds

When a child has occasional nosebleeds, you can have them hold a tissue to their nose. Usually there is nothing too concerning in that case. However, since it’s on the dog cancer symptom list, a canine nosebleed should never be ignored. It can be a sign of nose cancer.

Is your dog a puppy or is he young? If you have a nosebleed, you probably have a foreign object stuck in your nose. This is more likely for a young dog to develop cancer.

5. Diarrhea or changes in bathroom habits

Symptoms of cancer in dogs also include diarrhea or general changes in bowel movements. Occasional diarrhea is probably not a concern or a sign of cancer in dogs. However, if the diarrhea worsens or persists, you should take your dog to the vet.

You may also notice that your dog is constantly asking to go to the bathroom. Or they may have trouble urinating or having a bowel movement. Also, they may be vomiting, or you may notice blood in their urine or stool. All of this needs to be checked. These symptoms, as well as incontinence, can be signs of bladder cancer in dogs.

6. Download

If you notice a persistent drip or discharge coming from your dog’s nose or eyes, you should contact your vet. These are signs of dog cancer. A runny nose, for example, can be a sign of facial tumors. And a sticky or watery eye can indicate a possible tumor in the eye.

7. Changes in the mouth

Changes in the mouth are also on the list of signs of dog cancer. These changes include sores, lumps, a strange smell, bleeding, or a change in the color of the gums. You should examine your dog’s mouth regularly, because many of these symptoms can go unnoticed for too long. Try looking at your dog when he yawns or eats to see if you notice anything out of the ordinary.

8. Seizures

Generally speaking, seizures are more prominent in older dogs, but are in fact a sign of a possible brain tumor. Here’s what you should be looking for: sudden, uncontrollable bursts of activity, such as kicking and chewing, leg shaking, or foam at the mouth. These symptoms may indicate a seizure. Contact your vet immediately.

9. Skin changes

If you notice a lump or changes in your dog’s skin, it is extremely important that you take him to the vet. Better to get it checked, even if you suspect it’s nothing. Make sure to check your dog for bumps when you pet him, and also look for any swelling. Also be aware of injuries or sores that don’t seem to be healing.

10. Weight gain

Weight gain, like weight loss, can also be a sign of dog cancer. If your dog is eating less but is still gaining weight, take him in for a checkup. Also, a sudden increase in appetite is also cause for concern.

11. General pain or discomfort

Another very important sign of cancer is pain. When you hold your dog or stroke its belly, does it whine, cry or whine? If so, take him to your vet. You may also notice discomfort when your dog eats, this can be a sign of a tumor in the mouth.

By Dr. Eric Jackson

Dr. Eric Jackson provides primary Internal Medicine care for men and women and treats patients with bone and mineral diseases, diabetes, heart conditions, and other chronic illnesses. He is a Washington University Bone Health Program physician and is a certified Bone Densitometrist. Dr. Avery is consistently recognized in "The Best Doctors in America" list.

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