Introduction
Our canine companions can suffer from some of the same diseases that we suffer from, and sadly cancer is one of them. Cancer is now the leading cause of death in dogs. This is most likely due to the increased number of years that dogs are living.
The Most Common Cancers in Dogs
There are 5 leading types of cancers that are diagnosed in dogs: lymphoma, osteosarcoma, soft tissue sarcoma, oral melanoma, and mammary carcinoma.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of cancer which begins in the white cells of the dog’s immune system; the cancer then spreads to other areas of the body. It is a highly aggressive cancer, but if it is diagnosed early chemotherapy can be used to extend the dog’s life.
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that occurs most often in the long bones of large breed dogs. Males are slightly more often affected than females. This cancer is another highly aggressive cancer. If it is diagnosed in time, amputation of the affected limb and chemotherapy can treat the cancer.
Soft tissue sarcomas
Soft tissue sarcomas in dogs are tumors which begin in various types of connective tissue. The speed at which the cancer progresses, if it progresses at all, varies. Soft tissue sarcomas are most often seen as firm tumors that appear on the legs, mouth, or chest of the dog; these tumors are often on top of, or right under, the skin.
Oral melanoma
Oral melanoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the dog’s mouth. This type of is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers out of the 5 common cancers in dogs. Specific breeds of dogs seem to be more prone to developing this form of cancer.
Mammary carcinoma
Mammary carcinoma in dogs is also known as breast cancer. This type of cancer is most commonly seen in female dogs over the age of 10. Some breeds are more prone to developing this type of cancer. It is believed that the cancer is caused by hormone levels which fluctuate during increasing numbers of heats which non-spayed female’s experience. If diagnosed early, this type of cancer can be treated with surgery. Chemotherapy may also be recommended.