Symptoms of Canine Mammary Tumors

Canine mammary tumors are the most frequently diagnosed tumors in female dogs and are often diagnosed during a dog’s regular physical examination.  They usually occur as swelling and the veterinarian can detect them when palpating the mammary glands.  Most canine mammary tumors are located in the mammary glands nearest the rear legs.  

 Further testing can be done with a full blood profile, urine analysis, and x-rays.  All of these tests will help the veterinarian diagnose the presence of cancer in a dog’s system.  Radiographs can show the size and location of a tumor.  A biopsy can be ordered at this time.  The biopsy results will give an indication of whether the tumor is malignant or benign.  Mammary tumors usually develop in dogs between six and ten years of age.

Malignant tumors are generally irregular in shape and grow much faster than those that are benign.  Some malignant tumors are very aggressive.