Lumps & Bumps Treatment Overview
Treatment depends entirely on the type of growth, its size and location, whether it is causing discomfort, and whether it is benign or malignant.
Watchful waiting. Monitoring — for stable, confirmed-benign growths that are not causing problems
Surgery. Surgical removal — for growths that are growing, causing discomfort, malignant, or need confirmed clean margins
Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy — the primary treatment for lymphoma and some other systemic cancers
Radiation. Radiation therapy — used when surgery cannot remove all cancer cells, or as an adjunct to surgery
Immunotherapy. Immunotherapy or targeted therapy — newer options available for some tumor types
Non-surgical removal. Freezing or laser removal — for certain surface growths
Your veterinarian will walk you through what is appropriate for your dog’s specific situation. Follow their recommendations, ask questions, and if you receive a cancer diagnosis, ask whether a veterinary oncologist consultation is appropriate.
The Good Boy Foundation has one ask for you after reading this page: go put your hands on your dog right now. Run them slowly over every inch. Feel for anything new.
Do it again next month. And the month after that.
Early detection is not a medical procedure. It is a habit.
It is the five minutes a month that can give you years.
Deuce gave us more time because we were paying attention.
Your dog is counting on you to pay attention too.
Warning Signs: Call the Vet Today
Contact your veterinarian immediately — or go to an emergency clinic — if you notice any of the following:
A lump that is growing rapidly — visibly larger within days
A growth that is painful to the touch
Bleeding or discharge from any growth or body opening
A sore or wound that is not healing
Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw, in front of the shoulders, or behind the knees
Lameness, limping, or stiffness without an obvious cause
Difficulty eating, swallowing, or breathing
Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
An unusual or strong odor coming from a growth
If the lump is not painful and not rapidly growing, call your vet to schedule an exam within the week. Do not wait longer than that.
Sources: Chewy / Sarah Wooten DVM CVJ; The Spruce Pets / Yvonne Villasenor, reviewed by Marla Fischl DVM; PetMD / Teresa Manucy DVM, reviewed by Barri J. Morrison DVM; The Spruce Pets / Jenna Stregowski, reviewed by Jennifer Coates DVM; American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) 2026 Oncology Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, Veterinary Cancer Society (VCS), Veterinary Society of Surgical Oncology (VSSO), American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), VCA Animal Hospitals, Merck Veterinary Manual, and trusted veterinarians during our founder’s nearly 17 years of being a great dog mom.
The Good Boy Foundation is committed to providing valuable resources and education to empower pet parents in caring for their furry companions. However, it's important to note that the information provided on our website is intended for educational purposes only and should never replace the advice or treatment provided by a licensed veterinarian. While we strive to offer accurate and helpful guidance, we cannot be held responsible for any outcomes or consequences resulting from the application of this information. Pet parents are encouraged to consult with their veterinarian for personalized guidance and recommendations tailored to their pet's specific needs and circumstances.