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My senior dog has masses, balance issues, and chatters teeth. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 14 years and 8 months old | 25 lbs

My jack russell terroir is 14 years old he is in great shape and still runs around and loves playing. He has masses a lot of them are moveable and soft but some are not. He has been tripping over things lately and losing his balance plus standing with his back legs apart. I’ve noticed he is chattering his teeth in his sleep too

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 25th, 2020

It sounds like there are a couple of things wrong with Charlie. These masses can be lipomas, but they can also be malignant. It could be he is in pain causing him to trip over things and lose his balance. This chattering teeth can be a sign of oral pain. I'd have him seen by a vet today for these issues to get them diagnosed and treated. Best of luck.

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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