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My dog has a small, non-painful lump under his skin. What is it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack-A-Poo | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 3 months old | 5 lbs

I found a small lump on Jack under his skin by his rib cage. It has been there for a long time but it has remained the same same size and there is no infection and no bleed in fact the only time you will know its there is when you feel for it. It is not effecting Jack in any way he is doing everything absoultey normal and its not bothering him. Should i be worried and what could it be? Enen when i touch it he doesnt feel any pain or anything at all.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 9th, 2020

It could be a cyst or a benign growth. 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 Jack's vet a call to make him an appointment.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 12th, 2019

    I'm sorry Tobias has a lump! This lump could be a cyst, a lipoma, a benign tumor, or 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 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'd call his vet on Monday to make him an appointment. I hope this helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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