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What's this odd bump on my senior Golden Retriever's head near ear?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | spayed | 13 years and 2 months old | 62 lbs

My 12 year old golden retriever has developed a odd looking bump or cluster of bumps on the top of her head near her ear. My vet is closed so I won’t be able to get some idea of what is going on with her till tomorrow which means I will worry all night. Any ideas or thoughts would be appreciated. Thank you!

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1 Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on July 30th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. 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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