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My senior dog's face is swollen and grew overnight. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dalmatian | Male | neutered | 10 years and 7 months old | 74 lbs

Hi, my 10 year old Dalmatian has a swelling on one side of his face, he’s acting normally & eating/drinking. He’s not in pain, swelling has got larger overnight (I noticed the lump last night)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Rebecca, DVM

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 3rd, 2017

He’s a handsome boy! I recommend a vet visit for Oliver. The swelling could be due to a dental abscess or infection, cancer, infected salivary gland or even a foreign body in his mouth. Though that last maybe less likely if he doesn’t appear bothered by it. But the vet can do a thorough physical and oral exam to try to characterize the lump a little better. Depending on what they see they may Recommend a fine needle aspirate, a dental cleaning and assessment, or biopsy if it appears to be a mass. But given Olive’s age I would recommend you get it checked out sooner rather than later
I hope it all works out well. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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