If you have a dog, you know that health issues arise. Sometimes they have a funny limp, or they are just acting off. Other times, you might find a small bump or lump on their skin. Sometimes these issues resolve themselves within a few days, but at other times, they do not go away. While you might feel yourself begin to panic if you find a lump on your dog’s skin, not every bump requires an emergency veterinarian visit. Here’s what to know about lumps on dogs:

6 Common Causes of Lumps on Dogs

Quite a few things can cause a lump to form on your dog. Some of these are benign, while others can be cancerous and a major cause for concern. These common causes of lumps and bumps on dogs can include:

1. Infections: If your dog has a common skin problem in dogs, such as an infection, it can cause an abscess under the skin. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms under the skin, causing a bump to appear. These are often caused by insect bites or other wounds.
2. Benign Tumors: There are a few types of benign tumors that may form on your dog. These include:
   • Lipomas: These fatty tumors are soft and movable. They will also feel round.
   • Sebaceous Cysts: When an oil gland is blocked, it will form a tumor that looks similar to a pimple. These may sometimes rupture.
3. Warts: Otherwise known as a viral papilloma, warts will often form around the mouth of younger dogs. These are usually benign.
4. Allergic Reactions: If a dog has an allergic reaction, it can cause a lump due to swelling under the skin. It may also be why your dog’s face is swollen.
5. Insect Bites or Stings: If your dog is bitten by an insect, the area may swell, causing a lump to form.
6. Cancerous Tumors: There are a couple of types of cancerous tumors that can form on a dog. These include:
   • Mast Cell Tumors: This type of tumor is one of the most common skin cancers in dogs.
   • Soft Tissue Sarcomas: These are tumors of the connective tissue in a dog’s body.

What to Do If You Find a Lump on Your Dog

If you find a lump on your dog, it’s important not to panic! A lump doesn’t immediately mean a cancerous tumor. However, there are some things to look out for that may require a trip to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Here’s what to do if you find a lump on your dog:

Keep a “Lump Log”

If you find a lump, start a “lump log”. Keep track of the date the lump was found, an approximate size and texture of the lump, as well as the location. You can take a picture of the lump if possible.

Photos are helpful because you can easily send them to your vet if you have any questions. Take note of any other detail, such as if your dog is experiencing pain around the area, and of course, track any changes over the next few days.

What to Include in a “Lump Log”

A good “lump log” will include the following information:

1. Date discovered: When did you first find it?
2. Location: Where exactly is it on the dog’s body?
3. Size: Measure with a ruler and take a photo for reference and scale.
4. Appearance: What shape and color is it? Is there redness? Is there any discharge?
5. Texture: What does it feel like? Movable or fixed? Soft or hard?
6. Pain: How does your dog react when you touch the lump? Do they flinch, yelp, or show other signs that dogs are in pain?
7. Dog Behavior: How does your dog act with the lump? Do they avoid touching it, lick it or bite it, ignore it, etc.?
8. Tracked and Recorded Changes: Monitor the lump and track any changes, including updated photos.

Check For Concerning Signs or Changes

Take your dog to the vet as soon as possible if you find a lump that is hard to the touch, has an irregular shape, or if the lump has changed at all. This could include a change in size, texture, or color. Your vet should also be notified if the bump has any fluid oozing from the area. These are some symptoms you should never ignore in your dog.

While some lumps are harmless and may not need any medical attention, be sure to stay in contact with your vet about any new lump. Sending them photos can be helpful and help them determine if your dog needs to come in or not.

Follow Your Vet’s Instructions

Once you’ve been in contact with your vet, be sure to follow any instructions they give you. They may ask to see your dog in the office, or they may want you to monitor the area for a day or two before bringing your dog in.

If your vet can assess the lump and finds it is benign, continue to monitor the lump with their input. You may need to send them pictures regularly of the area. Other lumps may need to be removed, and your vet will determine the best course of action.

This is an overview of what to know about lumps on dogs. Not every lump is cause for panic, but you should be in contact with your veterinarian if you find a lump. Your veterinarian will be able to help determine the best course of action so your dog can get the care they need!