Dog Tumors

Tumors form when a cell continues to proliferate uncontrollably rather than following the usual cycle that results in cell death.

Tumors are classified into benign and malignant.

Benign tumors are incapable of spreading or invading other healthy tissue.

They may require medical attention, although they are not malignant.

Malignant tumors, often known as cancers, spread to other organs and tissues through a process known as metastasis.

Cancers can be dangerous to your dog's health depending on the type of tumor and how aggressive it is.

To assess how serious a tumor is, your veterinarian will inspect it and assign it a grade or stage depending on the type of tumor.

Certain forms of tumors are more common in certain breeds, implying a hereditary relationship.

When a senior dog visits the vet, cancer is virtually always on the list of probable diagnoses.

Tumors can also develop in your dog if exposed to recognized teratogens (substances that can change DNA).

Any substance or activity that can change a cell's DNA can result in the presence of a tumor.

Even environmental variables, such as UV radiation exposure, might raise your dog's chance of tumor development.