As a holistic veterinarian, I know how stressful it can be to find a new lump on your dog. Sometimes it’s something harmless, like a fatty deposit. Other times, it might signal an infection or something more serious. My goal is to help you understand what these growths could mean, what to look for, and how to support your dog’s health naturally and effectively.
Common Causes of Lumps and Bumps
Lumps and bumps on dogs usually come from two main sources: environmental triggers or genetic tendencies.
Environmental Factors
Everyday surroundings can influence your dog’s skin health. Some common causes include:
- Allergies: Dogs can react to pollen, dust mites, foods, or even grooming products. These allergies can cause itchy, inflamed skin or small raised bumps.
- Parasites and infections: Fleas, ticks, and mites can irritate the skin and lead to swelling or scabs. Bacterial or fungal infections may also cause lumps or sores.
- Physical trauma: A cut or bruise can sometimes lead to scar tissue or a small lump as the skin heals.
Genetic Factors
Some breeds are more likely to develop certain growths. For example:
- Boxers, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers often develop mast cell tumors.
- Golden Retrievers and Labradors are prone to lipomas (fatty lumps under the skin).
Even if your dog’s breed isn’t listed, remember that any dog can develop lumps. Regular skin checks and vet visits are the best way to catch issues early.
How to Identify Growths on Your Dog
Finding a lump doesn’t always mean bad news. Many are benign, but it’s always best to get them checked.
Visual Check
Look your dog over from head to tail. Run your hands through the fur and check hidden spots like under the armpits, behind the ears, and between the toes. Watch for:
- New or growing swellings
- Sores that don’t heal
- Redness or hair loss
- Weight loss or changes in appetite (if the lump is part of a larger health issue)
Physical Check
Gently feel the lump. Ask yourself:
- Is it soft or firm?
- Is it smooth or irregular?
- Does it move under the skin, or does it feel attached?
These clues can help your vet determine what kind of lump it might be. However, it’s impossible to be certain without testing. A fine needle aspirate or biopsy can confirm whether it’s benign or cancerous.
Regular grooming makes it easier to notice changes. I always tell pet parents: trust your hands. You know your dog’s body better than anyone.
Veterinary Evaluation and Treatment Options
Once a lump is found, your veterinarian will evaluate it through exams or lab tests. Depending on what we find, treatment can include medical care, surgery, or supportive therapies.
Medical Treatments
If the lump is caused by infection or inflammation, we may use:
- Topical ointments or creams to reduce swelling or help the skin heal
- Antibiotics or antifungals if bacteria or yeast are involved
- Anti-inflammatory medications or steroids for swelling or allergic causes
In holistic care, I often pair these treatments with immune and skin support supplements, like Standard Process VF Omega-3 or Standard Process Dermal Support, to help the body heal naturally.
Surgical Treatment
If the lump is large, painful, or suspicious, surgical removal may be the best option. The procedure is usually simple. Your dog will go under anesthesia, and I’ll carefully remove the lump. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing.
After surgery, your dog may wear a cone to prevent licking while the incision heals. If the lump turns out to be cancerous, additional treatments like chemotherapy or cold laser therapy may be recommended.
Cold laser therapy, also called photobiomodulation, helps speed tissue repair, reduce pain, and decrease inflammation. It’s especially helpful for surgical recovery or chronic skin irritation.
Natural Prevention and Skin Health Support
While not every lump can be prevented, you can reduce your dog’s risk through diet, lifestyle, and regular monitoring.
Nutrition Tips
What your dog eats directly affects their skin and immune system. I often recommend:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil or flaxseed) to reduce inflammation
- Antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries, spinach, and sweet potatoes to protect cells from damage
- High-quality protein from chicken, turkey, or beef for strong skin and coat health
Before changing your dog’s diet, make sure it fits their age, breed, and health needs. I cover this in detail during my online holistic pet consultations, where I help pet parents design customized diets and supplement plans.
Regular Check-ups
Routine vet visits are essential for early detection. During an exam, I:
- Visually inspect your dog’s entire body
- Palpate (gently feel) any suspicious lumps
- Run lab tests or biopsies if needed
Between visits, do your own mini-checks at home. A few minutes each week can make a big difference in catching problems early.
When to Seek Help
Contact your vet if you notice:
- A lump growing quickly
- Redness, bleeding, or pain
- Weight loss, fatigue, or other changes in behavior
Most lumps are harmless, but prompt attention ensures peace of mind and better outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Finding a lump on your dog can be scary, but you’re not alone. With the right information, proactive care, and a holistic approach, you can help your pet stay healthy and comfortable.
If you’d like personalized guidance on your dog’s nutrition, supplements, or natural skin support, you can schedule an online holistic pet consultation with me. Together, we’ll create a plan that supports your pet’s whole-body health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dogs can develop many types of growths. Some are harmless, like lipomas (fatty lumps), sebaceous cysts, and warts. Others can be more serious, such as mast cell tumors, melanomas, or squamous cell carcinomas. Only a veterinary exam can confirm the type and risk level.
A growth may feel like a small bump under the skin or appear as a raised or discolored area on the surface. It can be firm or soft, round or uneven, and may grow over time. If you notice anything unusual, schedule a vet visit as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis.
Most growths on dogs are benign and not life-threatening. However, some can be malignant and spread quickly. Since it’s impossible to tell by sight alone, I always recommend testing any new, changing, or painful lumps to keep your dog safe and healthy.
Treatment depends on the type of growth and how it affects your dog. Benign growths may just be monitored, while cancerous ones often need removal or medical therapy. In my holistic approach, I may combine surgery or conventional care with immune support, nutrition, and cold laser therapy to help healing and reduce inflammation.
Not all growths can be prevented, but a healthy lifestyle goes a long way. Regular checkups, a balanced diet rich in whole foods, and maintaining a calm, low-stress environment all support strong immune function. Early detection gives your dog the best chance for a smooth recovery.
