Complete Guide to Dog Cancer: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments 2024

We all know cancer, either up close or from afar. Like a tornado in a village, cancer wreaks havoc wherever it goes. We sympathize if you, a loved one, or your dog is battling this disease.

We understand these are difficult times. Cancer is the leading cause of premature death in France in humans. It is therefore a common disease in humans, but what about our dogs?

Our canine companions, especially our older dogs, can indeed develop several types of cancers.

Our hearts go out to you if this topic is relevant to your pet. The announcement of cancer is always distressing and unsettling news. It’s normal to feel lost in such a situation, which is why we’re here to shed some light on the matter.

This text will guide you through the various types of cancer that exist in dogs, their symptoms, natural and conventional treatments, and how to prevent them.

We are pleased to satisfy thousands of pet parents through the advice of our experts and our suggestions in terms of holistic solutions and natural products. 

Read on to learn the essentials about cancer in dogs.

What are the causes of cancer and tumors in dogs?

Several factors can contribute to the development of cancer in dogs, such as genetics and the environment. 

Indeed, purebred dogs have a narrower genetic pool. Due to this limited genetic variety, they are more at risk of developing certain cancers. According to this theory, mixed-breed dogs would be more protected from genetically related cancers.

However, some cancers develop without an apparent reason, and others are caused by environmental factors (pesticides, preservatives in food, chemicals in the air, for example).

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact causes of each cancer. That being said, physiologically speaking, cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. Depending on the nature of these cells, different types of cancer can be distinguished.

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What are the signs of cancer in dogs?

If your dog is aging and presents one or more of these signs, it is important to see a veterinary health professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of cancer symptoms in dogs:

• Sudden weight loss
• Lethargy
• Palpable masses that grow rapidly
• Signs of pain
• Wounds that don't heal (weakened immune system)
• Loss of appetite
• Respiratory or digestive issues
• Changes in behavior
• Limping (without evidence of an accident)
• Seizures

We invite you to learn more about these 10 signs of cancer in dogs, because early detection is the best way to save our dear companions.

How to detect cancer in dogs?

You may suspect that depending on the location of these problematic cells, cancer symptoms can vary greatly. A palpable mass or a change in the dog's habits are often the signs that prompt people to consult a veterinarian.

If the cancer is in the brain, the dog will have neurological signs. If it is in the lungs, the dog will have breathing difficulties. If it is in the stomach, the dog will have digestive signs, and so on.

How to treat cancer in dogs?

There are treatments for dogs with cancer. In fact, a cancer diagnosis is not necessarily the end for a dog.

Several care approaches are available to help your dog, whether through conventional treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, or through natural treatments such as a nutrition-focused regimen or natural products.

Conventional treatments to fight cancer in dogs

Since most canine cancers are very similar to human cancers, dogs can benefit from the same types of treatments, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, these cancer treatments for dogs are very invasive.

Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy

The approach of most veterinarians toward conventional cancer treatments for dogs is to improve the animal's quality of life, rather than necessarily increasing their life expectancy.

For young dogs, yes, but for older dogs with cancer, the focus is mainly on increasing their comfort during their final moments.

How to shrink a tumor in dogs?

Radiotherapy is generally performed in specialized centers and is usually used to kill remaining cancer cells after surgery, or to shrink a tumor.

Also called radiation therapy, this treatment can be used in combination with chemotherapy. It is particularly recommended for localized tumors, such as nasal or oral tumors that are often inoperable.

Chemotherapy can be administered either orally at home or intravenously at the veterinarian's office. Just like humans, dogs may experience side effects after chemotherapy treatment.

Hair loss is possible, along with vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and increased sensitivity to infections. While chemotherapy effectively attacks the cancerous cells in the sick animal, it can also harm healthy cells in the body.

Continue reading to learn more about a natural way to help reduce your dog's tumors.

Surgical Removal

Mass excision through surgery remains the option with the highest chance of recovery when it is possible.

In my work at a veterinary clinic, I assisted in at least one mass removal per week, if not more. I've seen a lot of success with this technique.

The veterinarian will assess the appropriateness of this treatment method based on the animal's condition.

What home remedies can be used to promote the health of your dog with tumors and cancer?

Even if you're dealing with the most aggressive cancer in dogs, you can still help your companion feel better directly from home.

Many natural treatments for canine cancer exist.

They are safe, inexpensive, and your pet can benefit from them comfortably at home.

Holistic and alternative solutions

You can equip yourself with natural tools to help your dog fight its cancer. Gentler holistic solutions exist and can be even more effective if combined with conventional treatments.

Nutrition, particularly antioxidants, and formulas based on natural ingredients and remedies can be major assets in the fight.

Read on to discover our suggestion for a natural product for canine cancer (PiptoAnimo).

Curcumin

Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is a powerful anti-inflammatory. It is known to have the ability to induce cancer cell death in the early stages of their development. Therefore, it is an excellent natural treatment against canine cancer and is also easy to find.

Medicinal Mushrooms

Many people turn to medicinal mushrooms as a natural treatment for canine cancer. I'm thinking of the well-known chaga mushroom, which helps reduce the growth of tumors in the lungs, stomach, and mammary tissues.

Hericium, another type of mushroom, is useful in cases of leukemia and liver cancer.

Nutrition

Nutrition plays an important role in the fight against cancer. A healthy and balanced diet allows the body to function properly and helps the animal recover more easily by supporting its natural healing mechanisms.

Antioxidants

Your dog receives antioxidants in its diet, in the form of vitamins and minerals. Antioxidants help combat the oxidation process. This process leads to the formation of free radicals, which contribute to the development of cancers. Antioxidants are therefore important allies.

You can ask your veterinarian for a safe antioxidant supplement for your dog or simply add some to its diet. Be careful not to upset your dog's gut flora by adding only a small amount of new foods.

Carrots

The carrot, for example, is rich in antioxidants. Add a few pieces to its meal or use them as treats!

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are also a food rich in vitamins and antioxidants. It is important to cook them before giving your dog pieces.

Tomatoes

Finally, tomatoes may also have anti-cancer properties. They may have the potential to slow the growth of certain types of cancer cells.

Omega-3s

Omega-3 supplements are also recommended as a natural treatment, as they fight chronic inflammation in the body and improve the taste of food.

Cancerous animals often experience loss of appetite as a symptom, so this supplement increases their chances of eating well and receiving all the necessary nutrients for the body to function properly.

What are the most common types of cancer in dogs?

The different types of cancer are classified according to the system or organ in which the cancer cells multiply (initially). Here is a list of the most common cancers in dogs (including the most aggressive cancers):

Skin Cancer in Dogs (Melanoma and Malignant Melanoma)

Malignant melanomas in dogs are skin cancers that attack the cells responsible for producing melanin (a pigment), specifically melanocytes.

Benign melanomas (therefore harmless) often develop in hairy areas on the dog, while malignant melanomas are very common on the mucous membranes of the mouth. A bad breath would therefore be a symptom of this common and dangerous type of cancer.

There are several types of skin cancer in dogs, just as in humans. The three most common are malignant melanoma as discussed above, mast cell tumors, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Bone Cancer in Dogs (Osteosarcoma)

Osteosarcoma is a malignant tumor that affects the bone cells of the dog. It can appear on X-rays as abnormal bone proliferation.

A sudden lameness or excessive licking of a limb could be signs of this serious and painful bone cancer in dogs. It is more common in large dog breeds and often occurs at the ends of long bones.

Every year, about 10,000 dogs are diagnosed with bone cancer. Unfortunately, this is a fairly common type of cancer in dogs.

Liver Cancer in Dogs

As the name suggests, liver cancer in dogs develops in the liver tissue. An abdominal ultrasound may detect a mass in your dog's liver, potentially causing vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss. A biopsy is necessary to determine the cancerous nature of the mass.

However, the majority of tumors that develop in the liver are malignant, meaning they are cancerous and have the potential to produce metastases.

Bladder Cancer in Dogs

The signs of bladder cancer and urinary tract infection symptoms are very similar. Blood in the dog's urine could be observed, for example, in bladder cancer.

Further testing should be considered if your dog does not heal from its urinary infection after treatment.

Bladder cancer in dogs accounts for about 2% of all cancers in dogs. It is therefore a less common type of cancer. It is generally an aggressive cancer that produces metastases, particularly to the lungs.

Stomach Cancer in Dogs

This type of cancer causes symptoms related to discomfort in the digestive system, such as vomiting and marked loss of appetite. The diagnosis of this generally aggressive cancer is often late since these signs are non-specific.

It is difficult to say what causes stomach cancer in dogs. However, we know that certain breeds are more prone to develop it. I think of the Chow-Chow and Beagle.

For more details on this disease, I invite you to read our article on stomach cancer.

Lung Cancer in Dogs

Primary lung cancer in dogs is quite rare. That said, other types of cancers can spread to the lungs via the bloodstream, which is called metastasis.

A chronic cough and difficulty breathing are the main signs. These tumors are detected using chest X-rays.

Primary tumors are usually solitary and considerable in size, whereas secondary tumors (metastases) are smaller and more numerous.

Spleen Cancer in Dogs

Whether benign or malignant, splenic tumors should be taken seriously. As they grow, they can cause the rupture of the organ and cause severe internal bleeding (since this organ stores the dog's blood cells).

Fortunately, a dog can live without its spleen. It is therefore surgically removed in cases of cancer.

About ⅔ of tumors that grow in the spleen are actually hemangiosarcomas, a type of tumor that attacks the cells of blood vessels.

Pancreatic Cancer (Pancreas) in Dogs

Different types of cancer can develop in a dog's pancreas. They generally cause vomiting, diarrhea, and significant weight loss. It is often detected late, which makes the chances of recovery slim.

The life expectancy of a dog with pancreatic cancer is 6 months to 2 years, depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis and the chosen treatment plan.

Breast Cancer in Dogs (Mammary Gland Carcinoma)

Mammary gland cancer is very common in unspayed females, as it is a hormone-influenced cancer. That said, it is not impossible to see it in spayed females. It is often noticed by one or more masses in the abdomen near the mammary glands.

I have personally assisted in surgery for the removal of mammary masses in several female dogs, and all were unspayed females. They are indeed 52 times more at risk of developing mammary tumors than females spayed before their heats.

It is rarer to see mammary tumors in males, but it is not impossible!

Testicular Cancer in Dogs

This cancer is noted by one testicle being larger than the other, among other signs. It is a common cancer in dogs with one or more undescended testicles.

Testicular tumors are common in unneutered male dogs. The best prevention for this type of cancer is, of course, neutering.

Not all masses that develop in the testicles are cancerous. However, several types of cancers, such as hemangiosarcomas, can affect these organs.

Additionally, there are three types of malignant tumors specific to this area of the body. To learn more about testicular cancer in dogs, I invite you to check our full article on this topic.

Prostate Cancer in Dogs

The prostate is part of the canine reproductive system. This gland participates in the production of the fluid released during ejaculation. Prostate cancers are rare but serious.

It is more common to see a prostate affected by a bacterial infection, for example, or by benign hyperplasia (marked increase in size).

Prostate cancer can be difficult to diagnose, but certain symptoms can raise our suspicions. I think of bloody urine and pain during urination or defecation, among other symptoms.

Mast Cell Tumor in Dogs

Mast cells are immune system cells involved in inflammatory processes and allergic reactions. Mastocytomas are more often manifested in their skin form but can also develop in the intestines.

A simple cytology (analysis of cells under a microscope), following a needle aspiration of the mass, can lead to a diagnosis. This type of cancer can be dangerous in dogs if not addressed, as it can metastasize.

A cutaneous mastocytoma does not always have the same appearance, so caution is advised. It can take the form of a mass, a small bump, or a red growth resembling an ulcer. Any change in the skin, anything that seems unusual to you, should be examined by a veterinarian for early diagnosis of this type of tumor.

Fatty Tumor in Dogs (Lipoma)

Lipomas are very common in older dogs, especially those that are overweight. They are very soft to the touch. They can sometimes be impressive due to their size, but if they cause no discomfort, they do not need to be removed. They are benign.

My dog actually has a lipoma that developed five years ago. He lives very well with this non-dangerous mass. Certain breeds of dogs seem to present lipomas more frequently, such as Labrador Retrievers and Doberman Pinschers. But from experience, all dogs can develop them.

There is also a type of cancerous tumor that attacks fat cells, known as liposarcoma. These malignant tumors are rare but dangerous.

Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs

More commonly known as blood vessel cancer, hemangiosarcoma is very malignant and spreads quickly throughout the body. It is one of the most aggressive cancers in dogs.

This cancer often metastasizes to the heart or spleen. The signs of this cancer usually appear when it is too advanced for curative treatment.

There are three types of hemangiosarcoma, namely cutaneous, subcutaneous, and visceral (which attacks internal organs). The organs most affected in the case of visceral hemangiosarcoma are the spleen, heart, and liver.

Lymphoma in Dogs

This is cancer of a type of white blood cell, lymphocytes. These are part of the dog’s immune system. This cancer often develops in the lymph nodes, resulting in swelling (which can be seen in the dog's neck, among other places).

Other types of lymphomas can affect different organs and create a variety of symptoms, such as skin irritations.

The life expectancy of a dog with lymphoma is about 6 to 12 months, depending on the stage of the disease when diagnosed.

You can consult our article on lymphoma in dogs for more information on its symptoms and natural products.

Brain Cancer in Dogs

These tumors can affect several different areas of the brain. The most commonly found types in dogs are meningiomas (a tumor of the meninges, the brain's envelope) and gliomas (a tumor of the supportive tissue of neurons).

A tumor in the brain can be primary or secondary. A primary tumor has developed initially in the brain, while a secondary tumor is a metastasis from a cancer of another origin that spreads to the brain.

The symptoms of brain cancer in dogs depend on its location. Some dogs may experience vision loss, while others may develop behavioral changes, for example.

Unfortunately, the prognosis is never very good for this type of cancer, as it is very difficult to treat with conventional medicine. It is also very expensive to diagnose. That is why many people turn to holistic medicine when they fear brain cancer in their dog.

Cancer in Dogs

Generalized cancer in dogs, also called metastatic cancer, refers to a condition where the cancer has spread from its original site to several other regions of the body. This typically occurs through the lymphatic system or the bloodstream.

The symptoms can vary significantly depending on the location and number of metastases, and may include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, difficulty breathing, and loss of appetite.

The prognosis for dogs with generalized cancer depends on many factors, including the type of cancer, the dog's overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. Life expectancy can vary based on these factors, ranging from a few months to a few years.

Is Cancer Common in Dogs?

Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Half of dogs over ten years old will develop cancer. Not all dogs succumb to it, so don’t worry.

If your dog develops a mass, have it checked by a veterinarian. Many older dogs will develop masses, but these are not always cancerous.

How Long Can a Dog Live with a Tumor or Cancer?

Tumor

The life expectancy of a dog diagnosed with a tumor varies greatly depending on many factors, including the type of tumor, its location, the dog's overall health, and the extent of the disease at the time of diagnosis.

Some tumors are benign and can be surgically removed without significantly affecting the dog's lifespan. However, malignant tumors, particularly those that have metastasized (spread) to other parts of the body, can significantly reduce life expectancy.

With appropriate treatment, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, some dogs can live several years after diagnosis.

Cancer

The life expectancy of a dog diagnosed with cancer depends on many factors, such as the type of cancer, the stage of the disease, the age of the animal, its overall health, and the treatment received.

Some cancers are very treatable, and a dog can live many years after diagnosis. For example, a mast cell tumor, a common type of skin cancer in dogs, can often be successfully treated with surgery, and the dog can have a normal life expectancy after treatment.

However, other types of cancer, such as osteosarcoma (bone cancer), can be more aggressive and have a darker prognosis. In these cases, even with aggressive treatment, life expectancy may be only a few months to a year. 

How to Prevent Cancer in Dogs

It is recommended to spay or neuter your dogs to prevent or slow the development of reproductive system cancers.

Annual check-ups by a veterinarian remain the best way to prevent the progression of any cancer through early diagnosis.

It is always better to optimize an animal's health before it becomes ill.

The natural product PiptoAnimo is excellent for optimizing the overall health of our dear companions. 

Conclusion 

You are now well-equipped to combat your dog's cancer, whether through conventional or natural treatments. All that remains is to keep your spirits up during these difficult times. 

We are wholeheartedly with you and wish you quality time with your furry friends.

Be the soldiers against this scourge that is cancer and above all, keep hope. Dogs are extremely resilient beings and can always surprise us! 

Have you ever used any of the natural products mentioned above? Share your experience with us in the comments.

Contact us if you wish to discuss your animal's specific situation with one of our experts.

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