Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

What's this clear, pellet-sized lump on my dog's neck? Is it cancer?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Papillon | Male | neutered | 5 years and 10 months old | 17 lbs

my dog has a clear mole on his neck the size of a bebe or pellet. could it be cancerous

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 24th, 2017

Yes, it is possible that it's malignant, but it could also be a cyst or a benign tumor. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of it's cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. I would have River seen by a vet tomorrow to have this lump examined and diagnosed so it can be treated.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 13th, 2017

    This lump on Malikai could be a cyst, abscess, benign tumor, or a malignant tumor. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of it's cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. I would have Malikai seen by a vet tomorrow to have this lump examined and diagnosed so it can be treated as needed.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored