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Dog has a lump on tail that's bleeding from biting. What is it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 65 lbs

Hello, so my dog Otis has had this lump form on his tail. It only appeard a few days ago . I did not notice it until it started bleeding because he was biting at it. I am unsure if it is a tumor, a abscess or possibly a wart. It’s not warm but he doesn’t really let me touch it and it’s extremly hard to clean. Any help, advice or wisdom on this would be greatly appreciated !

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 2nd, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Otis Lee. He will need to see his veterinarian for a procedure known as a fine needle aspirate. The veterinarian will use a small needle to collect a sample of cells to evaluate under the microscope. This will ideally give you a diagnosis for the bump. A histiocytoma is common on the extremities of a young dog. This is a spontaneous growth usually goes away on its own. However, a cancerous mass known as a mast cell tumor has the same outward appearance. In the meantime, place an E-collar on him to prevent any further self-trauma. I hope this information helps!

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