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My senior dog has belly lumps and is peeing blood. Is it serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 16 years old | 13 lbs

My dog has lumps under the skin in lower abdominal area and is urinating blood. She is 15 years old.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 27th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Blood in the urine can be observed with things like urinary tract infections, urinary tract stones and even urinary tract tumors. The masses under the skin can be due to a benign or malignant growth. Both of these conditions can be linked or be completely separate issues. A urinalysis and urine culture can be performed to check the urine. Abdominal imaging may also be recommended.

The lumps could be benign or malignant growths. 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 her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on December 29th, 2018
I would recommend to take your pup in for a visit with her veterinarian. The blood in the urine is concerning for a urinary tract infection or crystals in the urine. Other things that are less common but can cause blood in the urine are bladder stones, masses in the bladder, vaginitis or a bleeding disorder. Stress will not cause blood in the urine.
While she is there, make sure to point out the changes in the masses. Sometimes benign masses can become infected or inflamed, especially if she was rubbing at them. If the doctor is concerned with a more sinister cause, she may recommend sampling the masses to determine what exactly they are. She may also recommend treatment to decrease inflammation. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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