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My dog has a black scab on her neck. Do I need an expensive biopsy?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Belgian Malinois | Female | spayed | 4 years and 3 months old | 55 lbs

I've noticed a black scab, almost like a lump on Ana's neck 2 weeks ago. We took her to our vet who did an exam and peeled some of it off. She wasn't concerned about cancer and gave us an ointment with steroids to use on it. We have been monitoring it every day. But it is still there, only looks dryer now. We checked back with out vet and they gave us a $750 bill to do a biopsy. We don't have that much right now. Could someone look at the pictures attached (taken over a few days)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on January 25th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. This may be enough to diagnose her growth. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good day!
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