Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has a growth or lump in his mouth. Is it serious? What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Male | neutered | 23 lbs

I just found some kind of what looks to me like a growth or sist of some kind in my pug/Boston terrier and I’m really freakin out he’s my best and only friend i don’t no what to do

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 Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on January 6th, 2018

This looks like benign gingival hyperplasia. That is an overgrowth of gum tissue which is common in many breeds. I would have this examined by your veterinarian to make sure as it’s hard for me to tell just from a photograph. Often this is left alone, sometimes they remove the excess tissue during a routine dental. It doesn’t look like a cancerous lesion from the photo but I recommend letting your veterinarian exam it and then they can monitor the area for any change. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Sammy.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on October 2nd, 2019

    It could be mild gingival hyperplasia (an overgrowth of the gum tissue). You would need to have this confirmed by your veterinarian though. It could also be a tiny mass developing. Monitor it for rapid. Change or growth. Gingival hyperplasia can be treated by trimming excess tissue under anesthesia. If it is a mass, a biopsy will be needed to definitively diagnose it.

    Vote icon

    1Pet 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
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
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored