My young Boston Terrier has a hard, movable neck lump. Should I worry?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

  Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

  Published on September 4th, 2016

  If they are in the same place on either side of her neck, I would be concerned that they may be swollen or enlarged lymph nodes - this can indicate an infection or illness of some kind, or can be caused by certain types of cancer such as lymphoma. The lumps could also be abscesses, or some type of tumor. I would recommend having Lexi examined by a vet as soon as you can - he/she can do a simple test called a fine needle aspirate to find out for sure what the lumps are, and will make recommendations for what to do next depending on the results.

  

  10Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on August 13th, 2018

  Yes, I would be concerned. Without seeing a vet, you can't know for sure if this lump is a lipoma. In a 10 year old dog, there is always a concern that any lump could be malignant. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. 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 its cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. Once the cause of the lump is diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment options if needed. I would call the vet today to make an appointment for him to be seen. I hope this helps!

  

  6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on August 23rd, 2017

  It is hard to tell from the photo exactly but I am worried about the location of the lump. Dogs have lymph nodes in that area than can become enlarged with lymphoma :( I'm not trying to scare you but that is one possibility. Of course there are other things that it could be: reactive lymph node (not cancer but just inflamed), fatty tumor (benign), cyst, abscess.
  
  Your vet will certainly be able to give you a better idea after an exam but be prepared that some testing may be needed. Namely, a fine needle aspirate of the lump and some bloodwork. That will probably be the start.
  
  I hope this helps. Best wishes to you and Marv. I hope it is something easy.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful