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My dog has a lump on their tail. Is it serious? Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

What is this thing on my dogs tail, I'm concerned it might be something serious

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2 Answers

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on July 31st, 2017

Yes, I would be concerned this may be serious, especially if it has grown quickly. The broken surface is very high risk for infection and I recommend an urgent assessment by your vet; biopsy and possible tail amputation may be required. In some male dogs, a hormone dependent condition can cause similar masses and castration can be helpful in these situations

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This looks like a tumor or mass that has grown very large and become infected. I cannot tell by looking at it if it is a cancerous mass or not. I would recommend having this mass checked out by your vet. They can do a cytology of the mass (look a cells under the microscope) to better determine what type of mass it is and if it needs to be removed. Your vet will probably also put your dog on some antibiotics to help it heal. Tail masses can be tricky because if they need to be removed it needs to be done before the mass becomes too large since there is not a lot of skin on the tail to close. Good luck!

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