What Happens at the Vet
When you bring your dog in for a growth evaluation, your veterinarian will begin with a physical exam and a conversation about when you first noticed the lump and how it has changed. This is where your notes and photos are invaluable.
From there, they may recommend one or more of the following:
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
A small needle is inserted into the growth and cells are collected onto a slide for microscopic examination. This is quick, minimally invasive, and can often be done in the same appointment. It can identify many types of tumors immediately, or the sample may be sent to a pathologist for more detailed analysis.
Biopsy
A small tissue sample is surgically removed and sent to a lab. This provides a definitive diagnosis and — if the tumor is removed at the same time — can confirm whether the margins are clean, meaning all cancerous cells were removed. If the margins are dirty, a second surgery or radiation may be needed.
Imaging
X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI may be used to understand the size and location of a tumor, whether it has involved surrounding tissue, and whether it has spread to other areas of the body. For any tumor that tends to metastasize, a more complete workup including imaging is standard practice.
If your vet recommends removal and biopsy, do it. There are financial resources available to pet parents, veterinary credit cards (beware of interest rates) and low cost veterinary options.
Even when a veterinarian is fairly confident about what a growth is, the biopsy confirms it, checks the margins, and rules out something more serious hiding beneath a benign-looking surface.
The information it provides is worth it.
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.