My dog has a sudden soft, squishy lump on his head. Is it a bug bite?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 4 months old | 54 lbs
Our dog has suddenly developed a lump on his head. This happened over the course of maybe a half hour. He was napping in another room, walked in and had it. He doesn't mind when it's touched, and it's soft/squishy. He was outside for part of the evening, and has not hit his head on anything. He has no behavior or appetite change-still loves his treats. Is this simply a bug bite gone bad? Thanks in advance!
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 5th, 2018
Well that's pretty odd! It could be a bug bug, a minor trauma outside while running around (so basically a big blood blister), or even the start of hives from an allergic reaction (but it would be an usual hive). A mass wouldn't show up so quickly. I would recommend monitoring Reggie closely for the next few hours to make sure it's not getting worse. If no changes, call your vet in the morning to schedule an appointment, but if keeps getting bigger or you notice any more changes in Reggie, head to an emergency clinic.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on October 12th, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! These could be either benign changes such as hives from an allergic reaction (since it came so suddenly) vs potentially masses. I recommend that you have him evaluated by a veterinarian to better characterize these changes. If it looks more like a mass, your veterinarian could perform a test called a fine needle aspirate which is easy, cheap and pain-free. Sometimes, a biopsy is required for a diagnosis. Have your pup evaluated by your veterinarian to have this test performed to try to sort out what the diagnosis is so that the best course of action can be determined. Keeping my fingers crossed that it is something benign!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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