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My dog has a growing lump on his ear. What could it be and what to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 2 months old | 75 lbs

My 2 year old pitbull started growing a “mole” on his ear. It started out looking like a scab and gradually got bigger.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 23rd, 2020

This could just be a benign growth but without seeing Mac 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 his vet a call to make him an appointment. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 9th, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Truman. He should see his veterinarian for a procedure known as a fine needle aspirate. The veterinarian will use a small needle to collect a sample of cells to evaluate under the microscope. The goal is to determine the type of mass and if treatment is require. It would be unlikely to have melanoma in such a young dog. So hopefully this is not the case. A benign growth called a histiocytoma is more likey in a dog his age, but you need to know for sure. I hope this information helps!

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My dog is developing a bump on his ear flap since 45 days. It is soft on palpation,fast growing and painless as well. What will be the treatment.?
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Thanks for using Boop by Petco! This could be a benign or malignant growth. This could even be an infection though it is hard to know without an exam. There is no way of knowing what it is just based on its appearance. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good day!
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