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My dog's eye lump keeps growing. Should I keep monitoring it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Labrador | Male | neutered | 6 years and 4 months old | 95 lbs

My 6 year old Lab has a cyst/growth near his eye that continues to grow. The vet said we would just monitor the growth. About 2 months ago the cyst appeared to have ruptured and the area was soft and flat. Within about 2 weeks the growth had reappeared and now seams larger than the previous lump. He does not seem to be bothered by it unless I touch it, although he is such a great guy and doesn’t complain about anything. I would love another opinion on how long to just watch it. Thank you!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 25th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. There is no way of knowing what it is just based on its appearance. 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. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I do not think you should continue to just monitor it as it is likely going to continue to grow. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good day!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on December 10th, 2016
You are correct this growth by Batman's eye could be a wart, but any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. I would recommend taking him into the vet to have it examined. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of it's cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. Without seeing it in person, I can't say if it's serious or not, but it is concerning that is has grown bigger in a short amount of time. I would have Batman examined by a vet today if your vet has normal business hours, or first thing Monday.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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