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What's this bump on my dog's head under fur? Tick, growth, or tumor?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 50 lbs

There is a little bump on my dogs head. I was trying to search for whatever it was, but her fur was covering it. I'm not sure if it is a growth, tick, or a cancerous growth. She is acting like herself, which is good. What do you think it could be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 13th, 2017

There are many possible causes for the bump on Luna's head. It could be something as simple as an insect bite that has caused a little area of inflammation. We could have something like a tumor as well. There are different types of tumors, and many tumors of the skin are benign (meaning they do not cause the animal problems or spread elsewhere and require no treatment) such as sebaceous adenomas, while others are more concerning. You may need to shave the fur over the area to be able to see it better. Usually a tick is obvious because you can see its legs and shiny/smoother appearance. If the area is bothering your dog, or it is not resolved in a few weeks or is increasing in size then a visit to your vet is in order.

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