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Why is the hard bump on my dog's head growing and getting larger?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 65 lbs

My dog has this weird hard “spike” thing in his head. It was just a bump but now it’s gotten larger

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 8th, 2020

Hello. This could just be an odd looking cyst or wart, but it does not look overly aggressive or worrisome to me. Just point this out to your veterinarian at Chainz's next veterinary visit so it is documented in the record. At some point, removal may be recommended, but definitely not at this point in time. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on April 23rd, 2018
This looks like a wart or benign skin growth. These are common in animals and older animals seem to get more of them as they age. This is nothing to be overly concerned about. I recommend monitoring it for any change and bringing her in for an exam if it is inflamed or enlarging. Also have your veterinarian look at it and feel it at your next regular visit. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Angel.
5Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Tomasz Wnuk
Veterinarian
Published on May 6th, 2020
Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It looks like a skin growth, ward or a small cyst. It does not look particularly dangerous but if it gets bigger or starts bothering your Abby you should take her to your local vets for an appointment. Your vet may recommend to leave it or surgically remove it, if it starts causing discomfort.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My dog has a bump on his head. Could it be a sebaceous cyst?

I agree that it looks like it is most likely a sebaceous cyst. Sebaceous cysts tend to grow slowly over time, but should not increase in size rapidly or become red. They can become infected, so it if becomes red or painful, I would recommend having your veterinarian examine it in case it has become infected. If it is enlarging, your vet can perform a simple test called a fine needle aspirate where they use a small needle to collect some cells from the mass, then look at them under the microscope to make sure that it is a benign cyst. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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