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My senior dog has a suspicious leg lump. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 10 years and 8 months old | 17 lbs

My 11 yo chi terrier has this on his leg, thought was tick but took photo and looks like mole?

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 3rd, 2022

That's an interesting looking growth, it looks almost purplish in the photo. In a dog Huey's age, any growth has a chance to be malignant. 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. I would give his vet a call to make him an appointment. I hope this helps!

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I noticed today that my 11 year old 50lb mixed breed female dog has a pink growth, in the inner thigh region right where the leg joins the body. The attached picture isn't the best but is the only one she will let me take, I don't think she's in pain
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Hi I recently saw this lump on my dogs rear right leg. I’m not sure what it was and am concerned.
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