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My dog has a back lump and smelly discharge. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 1 year and 10 months old

I took my 2 year old Labrador puppy for some training on Wed. The trainer said she had a lump on her back. I can see nothing but her spine and muscle, but she said I should check it out. It has always been this way, so not a new thing. My dog is very fit and active, but also has a high pain tolerance, so I might not know if it hurt. She also sometimes has a very smelly brown discharge from her bottom in the evenings, but this has been from birth.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 9th, 2018

Hello. Thanks for using PetCoach! I cannot tell you what the lump on the back would be without at least seeing a photo. I suggest you get Lucy to your vet for an exam sometime so they can check it out. I don't think it's an emergency. If you would like to post again with a photo we may be able to give you more information on it. It is not likely anything serious but it is better to be safe than sorry and just have it checked. The discharge from her bottom is most likely anal sac fluid. This is pretty normal. https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/anal-glands-what-to-do-when-they-are-a-problem Hope this helps. Best wishes!

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