Lipoma in Dogs

Breeds documented
1
Published sources
2

Overview

A soft lump beneath the skin may be a lipoma, a noncancerous growth made of fat. These growths usually enlarge slowly and can develop alone or in groups. They often occur on the body or legs. Some become large enough to interfere with movement, so a lump's location matters as well as its size.

Signs to watch for

  • A soft, rounded lump beneath the skin
  • A lump that moves under gentle touch
  • A lump that gradually becomes larger

More common in older dogs.

When to get help Book a vet visit for any new lump, even if it feels soft.

Diagnosis and tests

A vet examines the lump, but feeling it alone cannot reliably confirm what it is. A fine-needle sample collects cells for examination under a microscope. A biopsy, in which tissue is removed and examined, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size
  • 1 Giant

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. vet.cornell.edu
  2. Broholmer: kennelliitto.fi