Early Warning Signs of Cancer in Dogs

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, so it is important to notice the warning signs. Knowing what to look for and catching cancer early increases your dog's chances for survival.

  1. Problems Eating

    • Dogs love food. So when they stop eating or are eating less, there is some sort of problem, and one of them could be cancer. You should go to a veterinarian to investigate.

    Digestion Issues

    • If your dog can't hold food down or has problems swallowing, that is another sign something is wrong. Also, bowel trouble can be a symptom of cancer. If your dog needs to urinate or defecate often, or if there are abnormally loose stools or stools with blood in them, cancer is a possibility.

    Loss of Energy

    • If you notice your canine sleeps more than usual or doesn't seem happy, that may be their way of telling you something is wrong. Dogs with cancer often act lethargic or exhausted.

    Wounds that Don't Heal

    • One of the most common ways to get a diagnosis is when you are visiting a veterinarian for something else, like a broken leg or a limp that you have discovered. If your dog falls and doesn't feel better within a day or two, or you notice a prolonged limp or whimpering, that may be a sign of cancerous activity.

    Bumps or Tumors

    • Bumps on your dog may be tumors. Tumors can be anywhere on a dog's body. Dogs get fatty tumors as well as cancerous ones, but any abnormality should be investigated.