Melanoma in dogs is a type of cancer that can occur on the skin, mouth, toes, and in some cases on the abdomen or scrotal area. Unlike human melanoma that is caused by repeated exposure to the sun, canine melanoma rarely occurs from this cause. Canine melanoma may either be benign, as in the case of melanocytomas, or malignant as in the case of malignant melanomas.
While melanoma cannot be prevented in dogs, the effects of the melanoma can be reduced with early detection and diagnosis. Pet owners who have a breed that has a higher risk for developing benign melanocytomas and malignant melanomas should familiarize themselves with what this type of cancer looks like. Owners should then perform regular checks on their pets to ensure early detection of any melanoma.
There are two basic types of melanoma in dogs: the benign skin melanocytoma and the malignant melanoma. Each of these melanomas occurs more frequently in older dogs, dogs of the male sex, and certain breeds have a higher risk for developing these cancers. However, the outlook and treatments for these cancers are quite different.
Once melanoma is suspected in a dog, the diagnosis of melanoma in dogs often utilizes several steps to try to determine if the melanoma is benign or malignant, what stage a malignant melanoma is at, and if the melanoma has spread to other areas of the body.
Treating melanoma in dogs depends on what type of melanoma the dog has. If the condition is a benign skin melanocytoma then a wait and watch, or surgical, treatment is used. If the dog has malignant melanoma then surgery, the Canine Melanoma Vaccine, and chemotherapy or radiation may be used in the treatment plan.