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My golden retriever has a growth behind his ear. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | neutered | 7 years and 7 months old | 98 lbs

My 7 year old golden retriever has a growth behind his ear. Any idea what this is?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 5th, 2019

It looks like it could just be a benign tumor like a wart, but without seeing him in person, I can't say for certain. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of its cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. Once the cause of the lump is diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment options if needed. Give Jake's vet a call in the morning to make him an appointment. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 3rd, 2017

    This could be a benign growth like a wart in which case we usually just monitor them. However if it suddenly appeared and is increasing and or changing and size it could indicate a more serious skin tumor. I recommend monitoring it for a day or two for any change in size, discharge, redness and or pain. If you notice any of those changes Molly needs to be checked out by her veterinarian.

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