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My senior dog has a growing, scabbing chest lump. What are my options?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | unspayed | 12 years and 7 months old | 60 lbs

My dog is 12 and for the past year a lump has grown pretty big,it’s on her chest at her front paws and now it’s scabbing in 2 places, she hasn’t been off her food and doesn’t seem to be in much pain however the past few weeks she has started doing the toilet in the house during the night, I’ve looked up a price for removing lumps and it’s looking very expensive also I’m not sure if she will survive a big operation. Please can you advise me of my options. Thanks debbie

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 15th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. There is no way of knowing what it is just based on its appearance. 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. The accidents in the house are unlikely to be related to the mass. 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 day!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on May 2nd, 2019
I see that Akilla is a senior dog, and unfortunately in senior dogs, there is always a chance that a growth is 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. Give her vet a call to make her an appointment. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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