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My dog has a hard, movable, painless lump behind her jaw. What is it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 3 years and 3 months old | 114 lbs

I have a white 114-pound German shepherd. I have found a lump behind her jaw about 2 inches around, It is hard and can move around a little. It does not seem to give her any pain or discomfort.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on June 2nd, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. This could even be an abscess. There is no way of knowing what it is just based on its appearance. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!

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