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What's this growing, discolored lump on my dog's neck? Skin tag or cyst?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | West Highland White Terrier | Male | unneutered | 12 years and 5 months old | 20 lbs

I noticed this small lump on the back of my dogs neck a couple months ago, at first I thought it to be a skin tag, but as time has went on, it has gotten bigger. It also has turned a darker yellow color and has some red mixed in. Is this a skin tag and if so, should I get it removed? And if not, is it maybe a cyst or something else?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on June 4th, 2018

This lump needs to be checked and analysed as there are many conditions and types of tumors that could look like that. take Sebastian to the vet, they will perform a fine needle aspiration on the growth and send it to the lab for analysis. when the result comes, the vet will advise what needs to be done according to the diagnosis.

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    Answered By Susan England-Foster

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 5th, 2017

    It looks like Tallula has a small growth that is under the skin but normal skin color. I would think this is most likely a small cyst. However I would recommend taking Tallula to a vet to determine the actual cause. Your vet can place a small needle into the growth and look at the cells under the microscope to determine the cause and see if it needs addressed for surgical removal. I hope that helps

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