My dog has a lump on her cheek near her mouth. Should I be worried?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. There is no way of knowing for sure without an examination though this represents a reason to seek veterinary care. This is usually determined with an examination and a fine needle aspirate (FNA) or a biopsy. Treatment depends on the findings up to that point. I recommend you have Panda evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Good luck and have a good day!

In a dog of Pixie's age it could be a benign fatty tumor (lipoma), local infection or inflammation or a malignant growth. You will need to have her physically examined by your veterinarian for a definitive diagnose. A fine needle aspirate (FNA) can be done to collect samples for pathology. This may provide a diagnosis after which the appropriate treatment can be discussed with the vet.

In a dog Ellie's age, it would be very unlikely that this lump would be malignant. It doesn't look big, and if it's not affecting her eating, then it likely doesn't need to be removed. Saying all that, I can't say anything for certain without seeing her in person. I would have it checked out by a vet to be safe. I hope this helps.

Given the location, it could be a tooth root abscess. It isn't an emergency, but is likely uncomfortable. If Dolly is behaving normally, she can probably see her veterinarian in the morning. An oral exam can be done to determine if there is periodontal disease and if so, if it is severe enough to cause an abscess. A complete dental cleaning and possibly extractions may be necessary. If an abscess is ruled out, your veterinarian can perform a fine needle aspirate of the lump to collect samples for pathology. This may provide a diagnosis. Treatment options can be discussed once results are returned.

This could be a tooth root abscess or a swelling from an insect bite or a salivary gland problem. Unless you think this is very painful, there is really nothing you can or need to do. If Chelsea appears in a lot of pain you may want to take her to a vet tonight, but if she is comfortable, then there is nothing you need to do.

Thank you for the pictures. I wouldn't rush Topsy into the emergency clinic, but I would recommend having this evaluated sooner rather than later (next day or two). It is hard to tell from the pictures if it is skin related or more involved. Some possibilities include skin irritation from something that she came in contact with, an insect bite, possibly tooth related, or maybe a foreign body. If she will allow you you can lift her tongue and look around her lips to see if you can see any potential source of irritation. If she will not allow you, or the lump seems to be uncomfortable to her then I wouldn't push her and definitely have her evaluated by a veterinarian. I hope this gives you some direction. I am available for consultations if you have further questions or concerns. Feel better soon Topsy!

Hi there. There are many possibilities with a swelling like that. However, in that specific location I would be highly suspicious of a tooth root abscess. If you lift the lip and look at the tooth, often you can see abnormalities. Also if you apply gentle pressure to the lump you may see pus drain out over the tooth. Of course abscesses from other causes as well at tumor can not be ruled out at this time. Please have Gingi seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.