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My puppy has a bump under his skin on his back. Should I worry?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 6 lbs

My gsd puppy has a small bump under the skin on his back, it is on the right side of his spine. We first noticed it because it was causing him pain. We could not pet him without him wincing. However, it seems as though there is no more pain but the bump is still there. There is no behavioral change and he still acts like a playful puppy. just concerned about this strange bump/mass.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 13th, 2019

This could be a cyst or an abscess. 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. Give Stark's vet a call in the morning to make an appointment.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on February 5th, 2017
Bumps on any dog isn't normal, but they are common in many breeds. Reese could have a cyst, an abscess, a lipoma, a benign tumor, or a malignant tumor. Any suspicious bumps 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 bump 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. I would have Reese seen by a vet tomorrow to have the bump examined and diagnosed so it can be treated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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