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My senior dog has a firm lump on his chest. Should I see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 12 years old | 65 lbs

12.5 years old and a Staffordshire bull terrier. He has had lumps & bumps removed before none were bad. This one on his chest feels more firm and is stuck to his chest wall. All his others were somewhat loose & moveable. I've attached some photos. I'm cautious about bringing him to the vet as he has been operated on 6 times before and I'm worried about his age and going under. Any advise would be much appreciated. Thank you. I've also attached some photos. Kindest regards. Rob.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 15th, 2018

Hi Rob! With a dog Captain Rob's age, there is always a concern that any lump could be malignant. Given that this lump is more firm and stuck to his chest wall, that makes it even more concerning. This is something that should be checked out by a 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 (no anesthesia required) 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'd have him seen by a vet next week. I hope this helps!

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on March 28th, 2020
It may be a benign growth, but I cannot make a diagnosis without seeing him in person. There is always a chance any lump could be malignant in dogs. 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 his vet a call to make him an appointment.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on February 28th, 2017
Poor Akasha. Unfortunately, in a senior dog, there is always a possibility that this growth is malignant. It could also be a cyst or a benign tumor. 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 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 Akasha seen by a vet tomorrow to have this lump examined and diagnosed, and then the vet can discuss treatment options.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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