Mammary Neoplasia in Dogs

Category: Cancer
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 3

Overview

Abnormal growths can develop in the mammary, or breast, glands along the underside of the body. These tumors may be benign, meaning they do not spread as cancer, or malignant, meaning they can invade nearby tissue and spread. They are much more common in female dogs, particularly those that have not been spayed. A lump near a nipple is often the first change noticed.

Signs to watch for

A lump under the skin beside a nipple
Swelling or discomfort around a mammary gland
Fluid coming from a nipple or gland
Broken or ulcerated skin over a lump
Reduced appetite, weakness or weight loss in some dogs

These tumors generally develop in adult dogs, most often between 6 and 10 years old.

When to get help Book a vet visit soon if you find a new lump near a nipple.

Diagnosis and tests

The vet examines each lump and nearby lymph nodes, then may collect cells with a fine needle. A biopsy, or laboratory examination of removed tissue, helps identify the tumor type. Blood and urine tests assess general health, while chest X-rays and abdominal scans check for spread.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Medium

Swedish Elkhound (jämthund)Medium · FCI Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types)

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.