Question 1

What are the signs and symptoms of skin cancer in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Skin cancer usually presents as a growth or lesion on your dog’s body. It can take many different forms. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a benign and malignant lesion just by looking, which is why additional testing is usually indicated. However, certain types of skin cancers do tend to have a characteristic appearance, which is described below.

Question 2

What are the types of skin cancer in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Skin lesions in dogs can be characterized as benign or malignant (cancerous). They are also classified based on location, size, physical appearance, and cell type of origin. Benign skin lesions include Histiocytoma and Sebaceous gland tumors. Cancerous skin lesions include Squamous cell carcinoma, Malignant melanoma, and Mast cell tumor.

Question 3

Which dog breeds are at risk for skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

Skin cancer can occur in any breed of dog. However, certain breeds may be more at risk for certain types of skin cancer. For Squamous cell carcinomas, Dalmatians, Pit Bull Terriers, Bull Terriers, Beagles, and other light-skinned breeds are predisposed. For Malignant Melanoma, Miniature and Standard Schnauzers, Doberman Pinschers, Golden Retrievers, Irish Setters, and Vizslas are prone. Mast cell tumors commonly affect Boxers, Pugs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and Boston Terriers.

Question 4

How is dog skin cancer diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

There are two ways that your veterinarian may diagnose skin cancer. One is Fine needle aspiration (cytology) which involves using a needle and syringe to collect a small sample of cells from the mass to evaluate under the microscope. The other is Biopsy which involves surgically removing part or all of a mass and submitting it to a pathologist for histopathology to provide an accurate diagnosis.

Question 5

How is dog skin cancer treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment will vary depending on the type of skin lesion, its size and location, and your pet's overall health. Surgical removal is generally recommended if the mass is suspected to be malignant, or if it is bothering your dog. If the mass is unable to be removed or if the cancer has already spread, referral to an oncologist for chemotherapy and/or radiation may be an option.

Question 6

Can dogs recover from skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the type of cancer and available treatment options. In many cases, surgical removal is curative, and your dog can go on to live a normal life. However, in some cases, the prognosis is less favorable, especially if the cancer has spread. In some cases, your dog may be predisposed to developing additional cancerous lesions in the future as well.

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