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Why does my older dog have a new lump that feels like a muscle?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 12 years and 2 months old | 20 lbs

can’t make out what it could be. it feels like a muscle or something that’s gotten a little bit bigger

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1 Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 30th, 2019

Hello. At 12 years of age, I doubt Bear is increasing any muscle fibers. More likely, this is a benign tumor, probably a fatty one called a lipoma. It is always best to have any new lumps, bumps or nodules pointed out to your vet, especially in the older patient. If this is a lipoma, it will just be watched. No treatment or surgery is needed. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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