Skin tumors are the most common tumors in dogs. The good news is that about half of canine skin tumors are benign. Here are some of the most common skin tumors found in canines:
Papillomas tumors:
Papillomas tumors are benign. They present themselves as small round growths with a rough surface. They are contagious between dogs but humans cannot contract them from their pet.
Sebaceous gland tumors:
Sebaceous gland tumors are divided into groups based on appearance: sebaceous adenocarcinoma ,sebaceous hyperplasia, sebaceous epithelioma, and sebaceous adenoma. The most common of the sebaceous gland tumors is sebaceous hyperplasia, which usually takes the from of a single or multiple wart-like growth(s) less than 1 cm in diameter and pink in color. Treatment depends on the type and location of the sebaceous gland tumor.
Lipomas:
Lipomas are fatty tumors that are benign. This is a very common skin tumor in dogs. Treatment is only necessary when the tumor is causing other problems such as mobility issues.
Mast cell tumors:
Mast cell tumors are very invasive and difficult to treat. There are three grades of mast cell tumors: Grade I (benign), Grade II, and Grade III. Grade III is the most aggressive, invasive and difficult to treat. Mast cell tumors can appear on the skin or in the underlying tissue. They take a variety of forms: bumpy, smooth or ulcerated and can be an individual bump or come in pairs.
When you groom or pet your dog, always be alert for any lumps in or underneath the skin as well as persistent sores. These are the most common signs of canine skin tumors.