Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has a small lump on her paw that bleeds. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 1 year and 11 months old | 50 lbs

My dog has this little lump growing on her paw it doesn't seem to bother her other than sometimes it'll get snagged on something and bleed a little.. doesn't seem to be growing too fast if at all ... what exactly is it ? And should I take her to have it removed

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2017

I would recommend taking Kona into the vet to have the lump evaluated. There is no way to diagnose it from the picture, it could be just a benign skin tag but it could also potentially be a malignant tumor. The vet may be able to do a needle aspirate to look at some cells to get a better idea of what type of growth it is. And then help you decide if biopsy or removal is how you want to proceed. Even if benign, if she routinely knocks it on things causing it to bleed it may be worth having it removed to prevent further trauma or infection. I hope this helps thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Emily Luisana DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Lumps and bumps typically fall into one of two catergories: benign (like warts and cysts) or malignant (can cause local or systemic problems). The appearance of the growth and her age are both encouraging as it is more likely it is a benign growth. However the only way to know for sure is to have it sampled (or altogether removed) and sent to the lab. The good thing about removal is that even if it is benign, if its breaking open and bleeding it is often better off regardless!

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My guinea pig has a growing lump on its neck. Can it heal itself?
Guinea pig has a growing, hard neck lump? Worried about vet costs? A certified veterinarian advises on crucial steps for diagnosis and your pet's well-being.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How do I safely fix my dog or cat's painful hangnail at home?
Ouch! Does your pet have a painful hangnail? Dr. Melanie, a certified veterinarian, provides expert guidance on safe trimming or when to seek professional vet care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a lump on their neck. What is it and what should I do?
Is your pet's lump a mystery? A licensed vet tech explains common causes like tumors or infections. Discover why a vet visit is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My mouse has a growing lump. What can I do if I can't afford a vet?
Concerned about your mouse's growing lump and vet costs? A trusted Petco veterinarian provides guidance on managing her comfort during this difficult time.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a soft lump. How long can I wait before seeing a vet?
Discovered a soft, nickel-sized lump on your pet's chest? A certified veterinarian offers expert advice on tracking changes and when to seek professional evaluation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored