Cancer in Dogs: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatments

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.