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My dog has a new lump on its leg. What could it be and is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 12 lbs

What is this on my dogs leg. I am very concerned.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 30th, 2019

Without further testing, there is no way to tell if this lesion is due to infection, trauma or allergy, or if it is a mass. Masses can be of a malignant (cancerous) type that can spread elsewhere and/ or invade the healthy tissue around them, or a more benign (noncancerous) type that is unlikely to spread. Cancerous types of masses are far less common than benign ones, but I recommend making an appointment for Chaos to see your vet to have the growth tested and to guide treatment. See the link below for more information on one of the more common types of masses that can look like what Chaos has on his leg. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952215

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 17th, 2017

    I would recommend to take Boss into the vet's office to have the mass checked out. Any time masses change (larger, smaller, change in consistency) then that can be a sign of malignancy. Most likely the doctor will want to take a small sample to send into the lab to determine what type of cells are present and if there is a danger of cancer. Just because it changes however, does not mean its always cancer but do get Boss checked. Best of luck.

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