Introduction
Cancer can occur in dogs of any age and sex and breed. Some cancers are extremely progressive and have a poor outlook, while other cancers are benign and pose little threat to the dog. Fortunately today, dogs with malignant cancers have a better outlook due to progressive treatments and early diagnosis.
Types of Cancer in Dogs
There are many different types of cancers that can affect dogs including: bladder cancer, bone cancer, brain tumors, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, lung cancer, cancer of the mammary glands, mast cell tumors, skin cancers, and testicular cancer. Some breeds of dogs are more predisposed to certain types of cancers, and spaying or neutering pets can help to reduce or avoid the risks of testicular and mammary gland cancers.
Outlook for Dogs with Cancer
Early diagnosis for cancers which include cancer of the mammary glands, skin cancers, and testicular cancers can lead to a much improved prognosis. Surgery and/or chemotherapy to remove the cancers are generally successful if the disease is caught early, and most dogs go on to live a long and healthy life.
Other types of cancers such as bladder cancer, bone cancer, brain tumors, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma and lung cancer can be challenging to treat even if they are diagnosed early. With these types of cancers, aggressive treatments such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, pain management, and dietary support are needed to extend the dog’s life while maintaining a good quality of life.
Dogs do not usually develop the drastic side effects to chemotherapy and radiation treatments which are seen in humans. When side effects such as itchiness, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite do occur they can usually be controlled with additional medications.