What causes cancer?
In many ways, your dog is a lot like you. You both need the basics of proper nutrition and exercise to stay active and healthy. The bad news: Dogs can develop cancer, just like humans. And because dogs are living longer and diagnosis is getting better, this is something that may touch your lifeThe good news: Dogs have cancer treatments, just like humans.
Cancer generally arises from a single cell that has undergone a series of genetic mutations. Many environmental agents are capable of inducing changes in cells – viruses, chemicals, radiation, ionising radiation and some hormones. The effects of many of these agents accumulate over a lifetime, possibly explaining why many cancers affect middle-aged and older dogs.
To help prevent cancer, be aware of your dog's risks so you can be proactive in keeping him healthy.
The risk factors for cancer in dogs include:
- Age - Dogs are living longer, which increases the likelihood of cancer
- Breed and Size - Certain kinds of cancer are more common in specific breeds such as German shepherd, Scottish terriers and golden retrievers. Some bone tumours are more common in dogs weighing more than 20 kg.
- Gender - Some cancers are more common in one sex compared to another, such as mammary tumours in female dogs
- Environment - Exposure to chemicals, such as pesticides or herbicides, may contribute to cancer
Does my dog have cancer?
- Your veterinarian may need to perform several tests to establish a diagnosis, determine which organs are affected, and determine which therapy is best for your dog. The signs of cancer may include:
- Abnormal swelling that grows or persists
- Rapid or extreme weight loss
- On-going and persistent sores
- Significant change in appetite
- Chronic bleeding or discharge from the mouth, nose, ears or anus
- Offensive odour
- Difficulty swallowing or eating
- Coat changes
Other common symptoms include lack of interest in exercise, loss of stamina, persistent lameness or stiffness, breathing difficulties and difficulty going to the bathroom.
Tasty Tips
Treatment and the importance of nutrition
Early detection of cancer is the single most important factor for successful treatment. Many cancers may be managed with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy and this can reduce the severity of clinical signs and add quality to your dog’s life. Many dogs debilitated can benefit from dog foods with increased levels of protein and energy to help correct nutrient deficiencies and replenish body nutrient storage. The main goal of nutritional management for cancer is to markedly improve the success of cancer therapy and add to the survival time and quality of life for dogs with cancer.
The food your dog eats plays an important role in his overall health and well-being. Balanced nutrition is an essential part of an active, healthy lifestyle. When your dog has cancer, it’s even more important to feed the right dog food consistently. For accurate diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian and ask them to recommend the best food for your dog’s cancer.
Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian about Cancer in Dogs
- What are the treatment options for my dog’s cancer?
- Ask how nutrition works with other available options
- Should nutrition be a part of my dog’s treatment regimen? Would you recommend a Hill’s™ Prescription Diet™ dog food for my dog’s cancer?
- What if I have multiple dogs? Can I feed them all the same dog food?
- How can nutrition help? What is the benefit of feeding therapeutic nutrition as part of treatment which may include administering pills, shots or chemotherapy?
- What are the pros and cons of using nutrition to help manage my dog’s cancer?
- How long will I need to feed the recommended dog food to my dog?
- Ask how feeding a therapeutic dog food can help promote health for my dog with cancer
- What is the best way (email/phone) to reach you or your hospital if I have questions?
- Ask if you need a follow-up appointment.
- Ask if a reminder email or notice will be sent.
Related products
Puppy Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Wet Dog Food with Chicken is a complete premium pet food for growing puppies from weaning until 1 year old and for pregnant and nursing dogs. This deliciously smooth minced chicken loaf is precisely balanced to deliver the appropriate amount of energy to support the needs of growing puppies.
Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Breed Adult Dog Food with Chicken & Brown Rice supports ultimate digestive well-being & a healthy microbiome.
Large Breed Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Large Breed Adult Dog Food with Lamb & Rice is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food is specifically designed to fuel the energy needs of large breed dogs during the prime of their life.
Small & Mini Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Small & Mini Breed Mature Adult Dog Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
Tailored nutrition to support graceful ageing in small dogs. Specially made with a synergistic blend of nutrients for energy & vigor.
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Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.