Lumps & Bumps on Dogs [Causes, Types & Treatment]

Just like people, dogs can develop various types of skin lumps, and staying aware of these changes is a big part of helping your dog stay healthy and comfortable. Some lumps are harmless, while others may need a bit more attention. Understanding what to look for and knowing when to consult a vet can help you stay proactive without unnecessary worry.

Whether you’re new to having a dog or a seasoned pet parent, this guide will walk you through the basics of different types of skin growths, signs to watch for, and when to consider seeing a vet. Plus, we’ll cover some ways to keep your dog’s skin healthy so you can prevent issues before they start.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Skin Changes in Dogs

Watching for skin changes is a simple but important way to keep track of your dog’s health. While some lumps and bumps might be totally harmless, others could signal something more serious. Here’s what to look out for:

• Lumps or bumps: Skin growths come in all shapes and sizes. From small, pea-sized spots to larger, noticeable lumps, checking them regularly can help catch any changes.
• Color or texture changes: Any shifts in skin color or texture, like redness or rough patches, may need a closer look.
• Itching or scratching: If your dog starts scratching or licking one area a lot, it could mean they’re feeling irritated.
• Hair loss: Certain skin conditions or infections can lead to hair loss around a lump or bump.
• Oozing or crusting: If a lump is oozing or has crusted over, it may be infected.
• Unpleasant odor: A foul smell can sometimes indicate an infection or other skin issue.

Source: https://www.thesprucepets.com/tumors-growths-and-cysts-on-dogs-4116142

Types of Skin Lumps and Bumps on Dogs

Here’s a rundown of the most common types of skin growths your dog might develop, plus some guidance on when to seek further help:

Benign Tumors

• Histiocytoma: Common in young dogs (<2 years), found on the head or legs, pink and fleshy; typically regress without treatment.
• Lipoma: Common in older, overweight dogs, found on trunk and legs, soft fatty growth; no treatment unless bothersome, can be removed if problematic.
• Papilloma: Wart-like, caused by a virus, usually in young dogs, found around the mouth or eyes; may fall off naturally but can be surgically removed if obstructive.
• Skin Tag: Connective tissue growth in skin folds, often in older dogs; harmless unless bothersome, can be surgically removed.
• Sebaceous Gland Tumor: Small lumps, common in older dogs, found on eyelids; surgical removal if bothersome.
• Meibomian Gland Tumor: Located on eyelids, cystic, can cause eye irritation; removal may be surgical or by freezing.
• Epulis: Found in the mouth, may have a bony interior, commonly near teeth; surgical removal recommended.
• Follicular Cyst: Benign skin cyst, that may become itchy or painful; may need antibiotics if infected and can be removed if problematic.
• Perianal Adenoma: Near anus in older unneutered males; neutering often cures, surgical removal if problematic.
• Hemangioma: Blood vessel-like tumor on sparse hair areas; treated with surgical removal.
• Nevus (Mole): Dark, raised/flat growth; removal if necessary.
• Trichoepithelioma: Cyst-like, from hair follicles, commonly on the face/trunk; surgical removal if needed.
• Cornifying Epithelioma: Horn-like growth from hair follicles; removal if causing trauma or infection.
• Basal Cell Tumor: Small, dark, usually on the head or neck; removal if bothersome

Malignant Tumors

• Angiosarcoma: Blood vessel tumor, red lumps or bruises; requires biopsy, treatment with surgery and possibly chemotherapy.
• Basal Cell Carcinoma: Older dogs, spread to surrounding skin; surgical removal is recommended.
• Liposarcoma: Rare, in older males on chest/legs; removal with possible radiation.
• Lymphosarcoma: Rarely on skin, appears as flaky/red patches; treatment may include surgery, chemo, or radiation.
• Mast Cell Tumor: Red, raised lumps, can vary in aggression; requires surgical removal, chemo, or radiation if recurrent.
• Malignant Melanoma: Lips, mouth, nail beds; fast-spreading, treated with surgery, vaccine may prolong life.
• Fibrosarcoma: Common on trunk and legs, firm or fleshy; removal difficult, often treated with radiation or chemotherapy.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Found on skin or under nails; solitary but may spread, treated with complete surgical removal.

For a more detailed explanation of the types of skin lumps in dogs, read this article, which was reviewed by Barri J. Morrison, DVM.

Photo by Brett Sayles from Pexels:

Treatment for Dog Lumps, Bumps, and Cysts on Dogs

As Teresa Manucy, DVM, stated in the article: “Options for treatment of bump on a dog’s skin may include:

• Monitoring for changes
• Removal by freezing or laser treatments
• Surgical removal of the lump with or without also removing some normal tissue
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation

Keep a log where you write down:

• When you first noticed the lumps and/or bumps
• How many there are and where they are located
• The size, color, and texture
• Whether it’s moveable or seems to be fixed to underlying tissue
• Whether there is any discharge present

Take pictures and note any changes from day to day in any of these factors.

Make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible and bring your log and photos along with any questions you may have.”

Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Skin Healthy

While lumps can be hard to prevent entirely, there are things you can do to support your dog’s skin health:

• Regular grooming: Brushing helps you spot changes early and keeps your dog’s skin and coat healthy.
• Flea and tick prevention: Use vet-approved flea and tick treatments to avoid bites and irritation.
• Good nutrition: A balanced diet promotes healthy skin and fur.
• Manage allergens: Avoid allergens in the home, like dust or certain fabrics, to keep sensitive dogs comfortable.
• Use gentle products: Choose mild, pet-safe grooming products and avoid harsh chemicals.
• Exercise and weight management: Keeping your dog fit reduces the risk of weight-related skin issues.
• Reduce stress: A calm, comforting environment can help dogs with skin sensitivities.
• Regular check-ups: Routine vet visits help you stay on top of any potential skin issues.
• Treat issues quickly: If you notice skin changes, addressing them early can prevent more serious complications.

How Can Pet Insurance Help You if Your Dog Needs a Treatment?

Pet insurance can be a valuable tool in managing the costs of treating a dog’s veterinary expenses. By having a pet insurance policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can provide medical care for your furry companion without worrying about the financial burden. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and even specialized treatments if required.

Reimbursement

This method is the most common for pet insurance companies. You pay out of pocket for the veterinarian bill, and then the insurance company reimburses you for what’s covered under the insurance plan. The steps look like this.

• You pay the vet bill after your dog’s visit.
• You fill out the pet insurance claim form.
• Submit the claim form and other required documentation to the insurer.
• After the claim is approved, you will be reimbursed for eligible expenses.

What Does Odie Pet Insurance Cover?

Pet insurance covers various veterinary expenses, providing financial protection and peace of mind for pet owners. Here are the details of the coverage options offered by Odie Pet Insurance:

Illness & Injury Plan

The Illness & Injury Plan is an all-inclusive insurance plan designed to cover a wide range of medical needs for your pet. This plan includes comprehensive coverage for various illnesses, injuries, and veterinary services. Some of the covered items include:

• 24/7 Televet Chat
• Emergency vet visits
• Overnight hospital stays
• IV Fluids & Medications
• Medical Supplies
• Surgeries
• MRI/CAT Scans
• Rehabilitative Care
• Prescription Medications
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Laboratory Tests

Accident-Only Plan

The Accident-Only Plan is designed for pet owners seeking coverage specifically for accidents. This plan provides financial protection for emergency veterinary care resulting from accidental injuries. It includes 90% reimbursement up to $10,000 each year, with a $250 annual deductible.

Here’s an overview of the Accident-Only Plan:

• Coverage for broken bones, sprains, eye injuries, and traumatic dental fractures.
• Coverage for wounds, including bite wounds, lacerations, snake bites, and bee stings.
• Veterinary treatments covered for accidental injuries include X-rays & ultrasounds, laboratory tests, emergency care, hospitalization, CT scan & MRI, and surgery.

The Wellness Add-on Plan

The Wellness Plan is an add-on for routine care coverage you can purchase with an insurance policy. It focuses on preventive care and covers routine veterinary services. Odie has two wellness plan options available:

Basic Plan:

• Covers services such as spay/neuter and teeth cleaning, rabies vaccination, flea & tick prevention, heartworm prevention, vaccination/titer, wellness exam, heartworm test or FELV screen, blood, fecal, parasite exam, microchip, urinalysis or ERD, and deworming.
• Reimbursement up to $305 per year.

Plus Plan:

• Ideal for puppies and kittens.
• Covers services such as spay/neuter and teeth cleaning, rabies vaccination, flea & tick prevention, heartworm prevention, vaccination/titer, wellness exam, heartworm test or FELV screen, blood, fecal, parasite exam, microchip, urinalysis or ERD, and deworming.
• Reimbursement up to $535 per year.