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What is this large, painful purple lump on my unspayed dog's nipple?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 11 years and 2 months old

When we got kittens a few years ago, my dog started mothering them and actually nursed them. Now my dog has a large lump in one of her nipples, stretching the skin greatly. It doesn't seem to cause her discomfort unless you touch it, even lightly. The skin around it is like a dark purple color, almost looking like a bruise. The lump is a little bigger than my fist. She's about eleven now.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 9th, 2019

I'm concerned this lump could be a mammary tumor, which are common in unspayed dogs. The problem with mammary tumors is that 50% of them are malignant. You will need to take Bella into the vet on Monday to have this lump diagnosed. The vet can discuss treatment options with you depending on if it's malignant or not. Best of luck.

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