As pet parents, finding a lump on your dog can be distressing. Mammary tumors, or “breast cancer,” are common in dogs. They can affect up to 50% of unspayed female dogs during their lives. These tumors can be harmless or aggressive. Fortunately, early detection and treatment, especially surgery, can improve outcomes. At Petyaari Pet Clinic in Hyderabad, our skilled veterinary team offers compassionate surgical care to help your dog live a healthy, happy life.
In this post, we’ll cover everything about mammary tumours in dogs. from symptoms and causes to why surgery is essential, and how our clinic can support your pet’s recovery.
What Are Mammary Tumors in Dogs?
Mammary tumors grow in the mammary glands along a dog’s abdomen, typically arranged in two rows of five glands on each side. Unlike in humans, where breast cancer is usually malignant, about half of dog mammary tumors are benign, like adenomas or fibroadenomas. The other half are malignant, including adenocarcinomas that can spread to lymph nodes, lungs, or bones.
These tumors are more common in female dogs. They are often found during grooming or belly rubs. Any breed can be affected, but Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Indian Spitz, Poodles, and English Setters seem more prone.
Spotting the Signs: Early Detection Saves Lives
The key to successful treatment is early detection. Mammary tumors often start small and painless. Regular checks at home are vital. Watch for these symptoms:
- Lumps or Swellings: Firm, pea-sized nodules under the skin along the mammary chain. They may feel like BB pellets and can grow quickly.
- Ulceration or Discharge: The skin over the lump may break open, leading to bleeding, pus, or a foul odor.
- Swelling or Redness: Inflammation around the gland, sometimes warm to the touch.
- Behavioral Changes: Signs like lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing if the tumor has spread.
If your dog is intact (unspayed), these signs call for an immediate vet visit. Pro tip: Start monthly “belly exams” at age 5, when the risk increases.
Causes and Risk Factors: Why Does This Happen?
Hormones play a major role in mammary tumor development. Estrogen and progesterone exposure during heat cycles can promote abnormal cell growth. Spaying before the first heat cycle reduces the risk by over 99%. a simple, life-saving procedure we perform routinely at Petyaari.
Other factors include:
- Age: Most common in dogs over 7 years old.
- Breed and Genetics: Some breeds are genetically prone.
- Obesity: Extra fat can increase hormone levels.
- Environmental Exposures: Limited evidence links pesticides or certain diets, but more research is ongoing.
Even spayed dogs can develop tumors, so staying vigilant is key.
Diagnosis and Treatment: Surgery Takes Center Stage
At Petyaari, diagnosis starts with a thorough exam, followed by fine-needle aspiration or biopsy to check if the tumor is benign or malignant. We may also recommend chest X-rays, ultrasounds, or blood tests to check for spread.
Treatment varies by tumor type:
- Benign Tumors: Simple surgical removal (lumpectomy) is usually curative.
- Malignant Tumors: More extensive surgery, like mastectomy (removal of one or more glands), is crucial. For advanced cases, we may discuss chemotherapy or radiation. However, surgery alone controls 80-90% of early-stage malignancies.
After surgery, most dogs recover quickly with pain management and a cone collar to prevent licking. Follow-up care includes check-ups to monitor for recurrence.
Expert Surgical Services at Petyaari Pet Clinic: Your Partner in Pet Health
For your dog’s mammary tumor surgery, you want a team that’s experienced and caring. At Petyaari Pet Clinic, Hyderabad’s trusted name in pet care, we provide advanced surgical services tailored to dogs. Our board-certified veterinarians handle everything from routine spays and neuters to complex oncologic surgeries like mammary gland excisions in our modern operating suites.
What sets us apart?
- Comprehensive Diagnostics: we do lab testing, ultrasounds, and digital X-rays for precise pre-surgical planning.
- Minimally Invasive Techniques: We always use electro-surgery to reduce pain and bleeding.
- Holistic Recovery Support: Post-op rehab, nutrition counselling, and pain-free protocols to help your pup bounce back quickly.
- Affordable and Accessible: With locations in BN Reddy Nagar, Vanasthalipuram, and Karmanghat, we’re convenient for Hyderabad pet parents. Our in-house pet shop offers recovery essentials like e-collars and healing treats.
We’ve helped many dogs overcome mammary tumors, and our spay/neuter programs have prevented many more.
Final Thoughts: Act Now for a Brighter Tomorrow
Mammary tumors don’t have to be a death sentence; they can often be treated successfully. If you notice any changes in your dog’s mammary area, don’t delay. Early surgery can extend your best friend’s life.
At Petyaari Pet Clinic, we’re not just vets, we’re your pet’s advocates. Book an appointment today via our website (petyaari.com) or call our clinic at +91-9959337244. Let’s work together to keep tails wagging.
Questions about your dog’s health? Leave a comment below or DM us on Instagram @petyaari. Stay pawsitive, Hyderabad pet parents!
