Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has a white lip growth getting bigger. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Goldendoodle | Male | neutered | 11 months and 14 days old | 43 lbs

My dog has a white- wart like growth on the side of his bottom lip. It seems to be getting bigger- should I take him in or is it harmless?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 2nd, 2018

Since it is not possible to diagnose a malignancy or a benign mass just from a photo I strongly suggest you have this examined by your vet. Unfortunately tumors on the lips and in the mouth often are malignant, and the earlier they are caught and removed the better the prognosis. The way this looks it could be anything from a tick to a wart to a tumor.

Vote icon

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 10th, 2017

    Yes, I would have Clover seen by a vet for this. It could be a wart, but it could also be a malignant tumor or another type of benign tumor. 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 it's cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. I would have Clover seen by a vet tomorrow to have this lump examined and diagnosed so it can be treated as needed.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 18th, 2017

    It's ok! I'll be glad to give you some advice :-) It could be a wart or another benign tumor, but it could also be a malignant tumor. 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 it's cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. I would have Luna seen by a vet tomorrow to have the lump diagnosed so it can be treated.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My guinea pig has a growing lump on its neck. Can it heal itself?
Guinea pig has a growing, hard neck lump? Worried about vet costs? A certified veterinarian advises on crucial steps for diagnosis and your pet's well-being.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a lump on their neck. What is it and what should I do?
Is your pet's lump a mystery? A licensed vet tech explains common causes like tumors or infections. Discover why a vet visit is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My mouse has a growing lump. What can I do if I can't afford a vet?
Concerned about your mouse's growing lump and vet costs? A trusted Petco veterinarian provides guidance on managing her comfort during this difficult time.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a soft lump. How long can I wait before seeing a vet?
Discovered a soft, nickel-sized lump on your pet's chest? A certified veterinarian offers expert advice on tracking changes and when to seek professional evaluation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored