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Why does my dog have a hard, sudden, non-tender lump on his back leg?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 1 year and 8 months old | 6 lbs

My pet has a knot on his back leg. The knot appeared suddenly, hard, but doesn't seem to be tender.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 24th, 2017

Hello. A knot in the leg of a Chihuahua is unlikely and if it is behind the 'knee' then it is likely his lymph node. If it is larger than 1cmx1cm I would have it checked by a veterinarian. It may just be his normal lymph node however if it isn't sore or tender. Enlarged lymph nodes can be due to infection, or cancer. Due to his age it is much less likely to be cancer.

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