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My dog has hard lumps on both sides of her neck. What are they?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Female | spayed | 7 years and 11 months old

My 8 year old dog has lumps a bit smaller than a golf ball on each side of her neck. They feel hard. What is this?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on September 4th, 2016

If they are in the same place on either side of her neck, I would be concerned that they may be swollen or enlarged lymph nodes - this can indicate an infection or illness of some kind, or can be caused by certain types of cancer such as lymphoma. The lumps could also be abscesses, or some type of tumor. I would recommend having Lexi examined by a vet as soon as you can - he/she can do a simple test called a fine needle aspirate to find out for sure what the lumps are, and will make recommendations for what to do next depending on the results.

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10Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    They are probably cervical lymph nodes, which are reacting to a certain pathologic disease which is affecting your dog. Ideally a presentation like this needs an immediate check up as the differentials include tumors (like lymphoma). Lymph nodes needs to be sampled to understand the underlying disease.

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    6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on September 15th, 2017

    Hi there! I am sure you are worried about Riley. Lumps on the side of the neck can be cause by many different things. The fact that is is hard and big concerns me. Lymphnodes, salivary glands, abscesses, or tumors could be the problem. A physical exam and possibly needle aspirate or biopsy of the lump will help identify the cause and help you decide how best to treat it ( if need be). Good luck and I hope Riley is OK!

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    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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