Dog Cancer Types – The Top 7 Common Ones

When we see our dogs, we look at them as a healthy being not prone to any sickness. But like humans, dogs can also acquire certain diseases and put their lives in danger such as cancer. There are different dog cancer types we must be aware of in order to prevent our dogs from having it. The following are the most common types of canine cancer:

1. Bladder cancer. Dogs also have a urinary system and the most common site that is affected is the bladder. Transitional cell carcinoma is the kind of bladder cancer in dogs that if compared to humans, it is already considered as the advanced stage of the disease. It affects the trigone which is located at the neck part of the bladder and can cause obstruction in urine flow. It usually occurs in female dogs and those that are seven years of age and overweight.

2. Brain Tumor. English bulldogs, boxers, and Boston Terriers are the most common breeds that are affected by this type of cancer. There are also different kinds of brain tumors but those that affect dogs at the age of 7 years are called canine meningiomas. It occurs due to the presence of tumor and abnormal cell division in the meninges, skull, cranial nerves, and pineal or pituitary glands.

3. Hemangiosarcoma. It is a cancer that affects the blood vessels. Middle aged to older dogs usually 6 to 13 years old and those that usually have short hairs are most prone to it. The breeds that are commonly affected are golden retrievers, Labrador, German shepherds, boxers and Dobermans.

4. Lymphoma. It is one of the most common cancers in dogs. It has a 10 to 20 percent average of occurrence compared to other types of cancer. It is a type of cancer that targets the lymphoid system that’s why the dog’s immune system is destroyed. Rottweilers and those dogs which are of middle age and are most prone to it.

5. Lung Cancer. Two types of lung cancer are diagnosed in dogs. First is the primary type wherein the tumors are found in the lung tissue. The second one is known as metastatic lung cancer that originates in different parts of the body but reaches the lungs with the aid of the bloodstream. Large and medium sized dogs regardless of the gender are commonly affected. It occurs at the age of 11 years.

6. Mammary Cancer. It affects the mammary gland and older female dogs aging 5 to 10 years old.  The breeds that are commonly affected are poodle, boston, fox terrier, and cocker spaniel. Fifty percent of dogs having this kind of cancer are malignant but the other half is benign involving different kinds of cells which are very rare. It is called Benign mixed Mammary Tumor.

7. Mast cell tumors. This is seen in dogs at the age of 8-10 years old.  Bulldogs, Labradors, boxers, and beagles are the breeds that are most prone to it.  This kind of cancer may develop in different areas of the body but internal organs and limbs are the most common location. These mast cells release certain chemicals and hormones that are essential in body function so if cancer occurs they produce excess amount causing adverse danger and reactions.

There are different dog cancer types and to prevent your pet from dying certain treatment are available like chemotherapy.  Alternative treatment such ES Clear may also be used to reduce the pain caused by cancer. It provides comfort and develops a healthy immune system to your dog.