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My senior dog has a black lump on his leg. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 15 years and 4 months old | 11 lbs

My 15 year old chihuaha terrier mix has developed a black nasty huge lump on leg i have vet appt on monday but i think its an emergency

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 8th, 2017

Hi there. I will agree with you that this probably needs immediate attention. It would be helpful to know how long it has been there-how long it has been growing and at what rate, etc. This lump may be a mass that needs aspirated to definitively diagnose. My best to you and your pup!

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    Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Zorro! If the picture is recent and the mass isn't bleeding or oozing I think it can wait until Monday. You may need to use a cone if he's traumatizing it, and try to keep him on soft bedding so that he's not bumping it on hard surfaces. However, if the mass came up very suddenly and he is painful or not using the leg I would consider taking him in sooner if possible.

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