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My dog has a firm, golf ball-sized lump on his elbow. What is it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 11 years and 10 months old | 73 lbs

My dog has a lump on the back of one of his front right elbow, I first saw it yesterday when I got up it was fairly large slightly bigger than a golf ball, today its become fairly firm but can still move it, my puppy tends to nip at his legs as I was wondering if it's an inflammation from that or another kind of mass like a tumour or lipoma?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on January 11th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. This could also be a hygroma. 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 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!

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 13th, 2017
Without a picture it is hard to tell what it is, but large breed dogs can get a hygroma at the elbow. It is often due to hitting their elbows or constantly laying on that side as a result of constant pressure. It may be a tumor of some sort also. Your vet can aspirate the swollen area to distinguish what it is to see if further treatment is needed
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on October 15th, 2019
I think continuing with the consultation is your best option and you're on the right track. Your veterinarian can examine the growth and may recommend an aspirate or biopsy of the area to determine what it is and if it requires surgical removal or treatment such as antibiotics if infection is present. Compression is also sometimes recommended for protection and treatment of the area. In the meantime, keeping Arlo from licking or chewing at the spot can help decrease any irritation.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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