Have you discovered a lump on your dog's side and are wondering what it means? Don't worry, there are many possible explanations and not all of them are cause for concern.
Whether it's after a vaccination, a sting or a harmless fatty lump - there are various causes that can lead to a bump. In this guide, you'll find out what they are and what steps you should take.
Causes of a lump in dogs: What's behind it?
The appearance of a bump on a dog can be worrying at first, but there is often something harmless behind it. It doesn't always have to be a malignant tumor. It is often a harmless skin change that is easily treatable.
Here are the most common causes:
Insect bites and parasite infestation
Even dogs are not spared insect bites, even if they have a thick coat. A mosquito or tick bite can cause the skin to swell. It is particularly unpleasant if the dog irritates the area by scratching or licking it, which makes the bump appear larger.Tip: Colloidal silver or coconut oil can soothe the itching and prevent the area from becoming further irritated.
Warts in older dogs
Many dogs develop benign warts as they get older. These small bumps are usually harmless as long as your dog does not inflame them by constantly scratching or biting them.Caution: If your dog starts to work on the wart, consult a vet to avoid inflammation.
Sebaceous sacs (sebaceous cysts)
Sebaceous sacs are accumulations of sebum under the skin that in most cases do not cause any discomfort. However, they sometimes become inflamed, which can cause pain.Important: If the sebaceous sac grows or hurts, a vet should be consulted.
After-effects of a vaccination
It is not uncommon for a small bump to appear at the injection site after a vaccination. This is usually harmless and disappears by itself.When to go to the vet? If the swelling does not subside after a few days, a vet should be consulted.
Lipomas - fatty tumors
Lipomas are benign tumors of the fatty tissue and occur more frequently in many dogs as they get older. They can occur in various parts of the body and usually do not affect the dog. Nevertheless, you should make sure that the lump does not cause your dog any problems.Note: If the lipoma interferes with your dog's running or playing, removal may be considered.
What to do if your dog has a bump?
The first rule: don't panic! Bumps on dogs can be caused by many harmless things, from insect bites to sebum build-up. However, it is important to have the exact cause investigated by a vet, especially if the bump gets bigger or causes your dog discomfort.
The vet can use a biopsy to determine whether it is a benign change or whether further measures are necessary. In most cases, however, bumps in dogs are easily treatable.
How do you recognize a lipoma in dogs?
A lipoma usually feels soft and mobile. It is an accumulation of fatty tissue that is considered benign. Although lipomas often do not cause any health problems, they can restrict your dog's freedom of movement depending on their location and size.
Conclusion: What to do if your dog has a lump on its side?
If you discover a lump on your dog's side, it doesn't necessarily have to be a serious illness. Many causes such as insect bites, warts or lipomas are harmless and treatable.
If you are unsure, don't hesitate to have your dog examined by a vet. This way you can make sure that it is a harmless change and act accordingly.
If in doubt, always visit your vet immediately and have it checked out! We are not doctors and can only give advice here, but cannot take over the medical clarification - please go to a doctor if you are unsure or suspect it is something that needs to be examined!
