Have you ever noticed a soft, squishy lump under your dog’s skin? One of our dogs had this on them and several friends of ours also experienced this with their dogs. If your dog does have a lump under their skin it might be what is called a lipoma. These common growths are made of fat cells and often show up in older or overweight dogs. While they may seem alarming at first, lipomas are usually harmless.
This post will look at what lipomas are, what causes them, how they are diagnosed, and the treatment options available for your dog should they be diagnosed with a lipoma.
Table of Contents:
| What Are Lipomas In Dogs? |
| What Causes Lipomas In Dogs? |
| How Is A Lipoma Diagnosed? |
| What Treatment Options Are Available For Lipomas In Dogs? |
| Prevention And Management Of Lipomas |
Related: Dog Skin Cancer: Signs, Prevention, And Treatment Options
Disclaimer: This post is meant to be informative and should not be taken as medical advice. Talk to your veterinarian regarding any health concerns you may have for your dog.
What Are Lipomas In Dogs?
Lipomas are common lumps that can appear on dogs as they age. These fatty growths develop under the skin and are usually harmless.
Lipomas are benign tumors made up of fat cells. They feel soft and movable under a dog’s skin. Most lipomas grow slowly and don’t cause pain. You can often see or feel them on a dog’s chest, belly, or legs.
They range in size from tiny to several inches across. Lipomas typically have a round or oval shape. When you touch a lipoma, it may feel like a squishy rubber ball under the skin.
What Causes Lipomas In Dogs?
The exact cause of lipomas in dogs isn’t known. But some factors seem to increase the chances of them forming:
- Age: Older dogs are more likely to develop lipomas.
- Weight: Overweight dogs have a higher risk.
- Genetics: Some breeds are more prone to lipomas.
Breeds at a higher risk include:
- Labrador Retrievers.
- Doberman Pinschers.
- Miniature Schnauzers.
- Cocker Spaniels.
- Dachshund.
- Golden Retriever.
- Weimaraners.
Diet and exercise may play a role too. Dogs eating low-quality food or not getting enough activity could be at greater risk.
Hormones and environmental toxins are other possible factors. But more research is needed to understand their impact on lipoma growth.
How Is A Lipoma Diagnosed?
Finding lipomas in dogs involves specific steps. Veterinarians use different methods to check for these fatty lumps.
Clinical Examination
Your veterinarian may start by feeling your dog’s body for lumps. They’ll gently press on any bumps they find. Lipomas often feel soft and movable under the skin. Your vet will check the size, shape, and location of each lump.
They’ll ask about when you first noticed the lump and if it’s grown. Your dog’s age, breed, and weight are important factors. Older and overweight dogs are more likely to get lipomas.
Your veterinarian will also look for any signs that the lump is causing pain or problems for your dog.
Diagnostic Imaging
If a lump needs a closer look, your veterinarian might use imaging tests. X-rays can show if the lump is deep in the body. This can also help rule out other types of tumors.
Ultrasounds give a clearer picture of the lump’s inside. They can tell if it’s solid or filled with fluid. This helps separate lipomas from other kinds of lumps.
CT scans or MRIs might be used for hard-to-reach lumps. These tests give detailed 3D images. They’re useful for planning surgery if needed.
Biopsy And Testing
A biopsy is the most accurate way to diagnose a lipoma. Your veterinarian will take a small sample of the lump with a needle. This is called a fine needle aspirate.
They will then look at the sample under a microscope. Lipoma cells have a distinct look that sets them apart from other tumors.
For bigger or unusual lumps, your vet might remove a larger piece for testing. This is called an incisional biopsy. It helps rule out rare but serious tumors that can look like lipomas.
Lab tests on the samples can confirm if it’s a lipoma. They can also check if it’s a more concerning type of tumor.
What Treatment Options Are Available For Lipomas In Dogs?
Lipomas in dogs can be managed through different approaches. The best choice depends on the size, location, and impact of the fatty tumor.
Non-Surgical Approaches
Watchful waiting is often used for small, harmless lipomas. Your veterinarian may suggest regular check-ups to monitor growth. This works well for lipomas that don’t cause pain or limit movement.
Diet and exercise can help prevent new lipomas. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight may slow lipoma growth.
New treatments are being tested. Injections that break down lipoma tissue show promise. These may offer a less invasive option in the future.
Surgical Removal
Surgery is the main treatment for large or bothersome lipomas. Your veterinarian will remove the entire fatty tumor. This is often done as an outpatient procedure.
The surgery is usually quick and safe. Your dog may need stitches and a few days to recover. Most dogs heal well with proper care.
Risks of surgery are low but include infection or bleeding. Your veterinarian will discuss these with you beforehand. In most cases, the benefits outweigh the risks.
After removal, lipomas rarely grow back in the same spot. However, new ones may form elsewhere. Regular check-ups can catch new growths early.
Prevention And Management Of Lipomas
Preventing and managing lipomas in dogs involves a two-pronged approach. Focus on your dog’s diet and exercise routine, and make sure to schedule regular veterinary check-ups.
Diet And Exercise
Feed your dog a balanced, low-fat diet to help maintain a healthy weight. Omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial, so consider adding fish oil to your dog’s food. Ask your vet about the right amount for your pup’s size and health needs.
Make sure your dog gets enough exercise. Daily walks and playtime can help keep them fit and reduce the risk of obesity.
Avoid giving your dog table scraps or high-fat treats. Instead, offer healthy snacks like carrots or green beans. These can satisfy their cravings without adding extra calories.
Regular Veterinary Check-Ups
Schedule yearly check-ups with your veterinarian. These visits allow for early detection of lipomas and other health issues. Your vet can track any existing lumps and spot new ones.
During these visits, your veterinarian will perform a physical exam. They’ll check for any new growths and measure existing ones. This helps monitor changes over time.
If you notice any new lumps between visits, don’t wait. Call your vet to have them checked out. While most lipomas are harmless, it’s best to be sure.
Ask your veterinarian about any lifestyle changes that might help prevent lipomas. They can offer personalized advice based on your dog’s breed, age, and health history.
Lipomas in dogs is a common condition that can seem scary at first. The good news is that lipomas are usually non-cancerous and generally don’t require any treatment unless they are fast growing or in an inconvenient spot on your dog.
For more information on lipomas in dogs, please see PetMD, VCA Animal Hospitals.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.