Although it is common for older dogs of all breeds or mixes to have problems with their prostates, it is uncommon for them to get prostate cancer. According to the Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, prostate cancer happens equally to castrated dogs and intact ones. The earlier treatment begins, the more likely it is that the dog will survive prostate cancer.
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Enlarged Prostate
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The first sign of prostate cancer is that the prostate itself has enlarged. The first sign that the prostate has enlarged is that the dog will become more and more constipated.
Blood
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The next symptom of an enlarged prostate is blood in the urine, usually in the form of flecks or spots. The dog may also strain to urinate but hardly produce any urine.
Expert Insight
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At this point, the dog needs a vet to perform a rectal examination to see if the prostate is enlarged and if there is a tumor. Dogs more often get benign prostatic hyperplasia (a benign growth) rather than cancer.
Time Frame
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According to the Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, dogs can have an enlarged prostate for months or years without showing any symptoms. This is one reason why regular vet checkups are so important, especially for dogs over six years old.
Other Symptoms
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According to Canine Cancer Awareness, some dogs show other signs of prostate cancer, including developing a strange body odor, weight loss, loos of appetite, sores that won't heal, or swellings around the genitals and anus.
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