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My dog has a bump on his head. Could it be a sebaceous cyst?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 10 years and 2 months old | 6 lbs

I found this tiny bump on zues head the other day hes been fine no issues.. i think its a sebasous cyst. Any ideas? Pics are attached

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2 Answers

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Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on July 16th, 2018

I agree that it looks like it is most likely a sebaceous cyst. Sebaceous cysts tend to grow slowly over time, but should not increase in size rapidly or become red. They can become infected, so it if becomes red or painful, I would recommend having your veterinarian examine it in case it has become infected. If it is enlarging, your vet can perform a simple test called a fine needle aspirate where they use a small needle to collect some cells from the mass, then look at them under the microscope to make sure that it is a benign cyst. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 28th, 2017

    This is likely a small cyst/blocked gland and likely benign. Continue to monitor for any increase in size or change in color and ask your vet to check it out at her next wellness exam or earlier if anything changes

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