Important dog cancer symptoms that you shouldn't ignore

It's estimated that 1 in 4 dogs will get cancer in their lifetime. Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs over the age of 10, so it's important to be aware of the symptoms and to know when to take your dog to the vet. There are many different types of dog cancer, and the symptoms can vary depending on the type.

There are some general symptoms that you should be aware of, as they could be indicative of cancer. Here are some important dog cancer symptoms that you shouldn't ignore.

Unexplained weight loss

If you notice that your dog is losing weight without any explanation, it could be a sign of cancer. This is especially true if the weight loss is accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, or vomiting. If you think your dog may be losing weight due to cancer, take them to the vet for a thorough examination.

Excessive coughing

Coughing is a common symptom of many diseases and disorders in dogs, so it can be difficult to determine if your dog's coughing is normal or cause for concern. However, if your dog is coughing excessively, it may be a sign of cancer.There are several types of cancers that can affect the respiratory system and cause excessive coughing in dogs. These include lung cancer, throat cancer, and bronchial cancer. If your dog is coughing up blood or has difficulty breathing, this may also be a sign of cancer.If you notice your dog coughing excessively, please make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible for an examination.

Lethargic

If your dog is suddenly lethargic and doesn't want to do the things they normally enjoy, it could be a sign of cancer. Cancerous cells can cause fatigue and make it difficult for your dog to move around or even stand up. If you notice your dog is lethargic and not acting like themselves, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Lumps

You can feel for abnormal lumps and bumps underneath your dog's skin by gently feeling them with your hands. Unfortunately, you can't tell if it's cancerous just by touching it, so the best option is to have it tested by a vet. It's important to inspect every inch of your dog's body for lumps, not just their neck, arms, and legs. They can occur anywhere, including between the toes. Because you'll be checking so many places in your dog's body on a regular basis, it would be a good idea to train them to be able to look at their paws when you say the word "foot".