1 in 5 Female Dogs Develops Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know

What is breast cancer in dogs?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the mammary tissue of dogs. It is the most common type of cancer in female dogs, and it can occur in both intact and spayed animals.

What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer in dogs?

The most common sign of breast cancer in dogs is a lump or mass in the mammary tissue. Other signs and symptoms may include:

• Redness or swelling of the nipple
• Discharge from the nipple
• Changes in the size or shape of the mammary gland
• Pain or discomfort in the mammary gland
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Lethargy

What are the risk factors for breast cancer in dogs?

The risk of breast cancer in dogs is increased by several factors, including:

• Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age.
• Breed: Certain breeds of dogs are more likely to develop breast cancer, including Boxers, Bulldogs, and Poodles.
• Obesity: Overweight and obese dogs are more likely to develop breast cancer.
• Hormonal imbalance: Dogs that are not spayed are more likely to develop breast cancer.
• Family history: Dogs with a family history of breast cancer are more likely to develop the disease.

How is breast cancer in dogs diagnosed?

Breast cancer in dogs is diagnosed by a veterinarian through a physical examination and a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy. An FNA biopsy involves using a thin needle to remove a small sample of cells from the tumor. The cells are then examined under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous.

How is breast cancer in dogs treated?

The treatment for breast cancer in dogs depends on the stage of the cancer and the health of the dog. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for breast cancer in dogs. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and any surrounding lymph nodes that may be affected by the cancer.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of drug therapy that uses cytotoxic drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery to prevent the cancer from spreading.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery to prevent the cancer from spreading.
• Hormonal therapy: Hormonal therapy uses hormones to block the growth of cancer cells. Hormonal therapy may be used in dogs that are not candidates for surgery or chemotherapy.

What is the prognosis for dogs with breast cancer?

The prognosis for dogs with breast cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the health of the dog. The 5-year survival rate for dogs with breast cancer is 50%. However, the survival rate can be higher for dogs that are diagnosed and treated early.

How can I prevent breast cancer in my dog?

There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer in dogs, but there are a few things you can do to reduce your dog's risk of developing the disease:

• Spay your dog: Spaying your dog before her first heat cycle can reduce her risk of developing breast cancer by up to 80%.
• Keep your dog at a healthy weight: Overweight and obese dogs are more likely to develop breast cancer.
• Feed your dog a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to reduce your dog's risk of developing breast cancer.
• Exercise your dog regularly: Exercise can help to keep your dog at a healthy weight and reduce her risk of developing breast cancer.

Additional resources

• American Cancer Society: Breast Cancer in Dogs
• National Canine Cancer Foundation: Breast Cancer in Dogs
• Veterinary Partner: Breast Cancer in Dogs