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My dog has a tender lump on her muzzle near her nose. What is it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | spayed | 8 years and 2 months old | 42 lbs

8 yo smooth coated border collie recently developed lump/bump on muzzle next to nose. She didnt want me to exam it, probably tender. No hair on it. Looks like it has 2nd smaller bump on top of main bump. She seems just fine otherwise. Eating, happy, etc.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 2nd, 2017

It could be an infection, cyst, allergic reaction, benign or cancerous lump. The best thing would be to have your vet examine her to perform a needle aspirate to help diagnose. Your vet can then determine the best way to treat. She may need an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, or it may need to be removed.

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    Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 11th, 2017

    I am very sorry that Nola is experiencing these issues with her snout. Given the fact that the lump seems to come and go I would be concerned it is either an injury which is swelling, a tooth issue, or an infection under the skin. I would suggest a visit to the veterinarian in the next few days if the lump continues to appear. The vet will possible perform an X-ray to visualise the lump, and may take a sample of it using a technique called fine needle aspiration. In the meantime you can try a cool compress if she will tolerate it. Best of luck to you both.

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    Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 4th, 2019

    This lump should be checked out by a veterinarian. I suspect it is some type of tumor, or it could be an abscess or infection (though less likely as she's not painful). A tumor could be benign, meaning that it doesn't need treatment at all, or that surgical removal alone would cure the problem, or it could be malignant, meaning that surgical removal alone may not solve the issue. Take her to the vet. Your vet will likely do a "fine needle aspirate" which is when we poke a skin lump with a needle to get a sample of the cells, then squirt those cells out onto a microscope to look at it. Based on findings, your vet will be able to advise you of what treatment, if any, is needed. Thank you for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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