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My dog has a skin lump. Is it a mole or a cyst? Does it need removal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I know it’s a mole but will I av to have it removed it was a subasusius cyst first but then a mole came thank u

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on January 22nd, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. There is no way of knowing for sure without an examination though this represents a reason to seek veterinary care. This is usually determined with an examination and a fine needle aspirate (FNA) or a biopsy. Treatment depends on the findings up to that point. I recommend you have your pup evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Good luck and have a good day!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 25th, 2020

    It the lump has not changed in size in the last years and if it is not bothering your dog, not bleeding and not causing any discomfort, most likely it is a benign skin 'tag' or a ward. However, this kind of skin lumps should be always examined by a vet in person, as it is very hard to make definite diagnoses over the Internet. So, I think you should show this lump to your vets next time you take your dog for vaccination appointment so they can fully examine the lump and discuss treatment options.

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 20th, 2017

    I think you should have your vet take a look at it. It would be a good idea to aspirate it or just remove it and submit it to a lab for testing. It is impossible to know the exact cause without looking at some cells under a microscope. The fact that he has had it for a while makes it more likely that it is something benign but you won't know for sure without doing some diagnostic testing.

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