5 early warning signs of cancer in dogs

It is estimated that one in four dogs will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, and half of dogs over 10 years of age will die. Scientists suspect that the prevalence of this disease is due to several factors. These include longer life expectancy, selective breeding, environmental factors and better diagnostic tests. Early recognition of the signs can improve your dog's chances of overcoming the disease and living a long, happy life.

There are several signs that could indicate that your dog has cancer, and the sooner you spot them, the sooner they can be dealt with. As with humans, canine cancer is best treated if detected early.

Early detection of signs of cancer can save lives

1.) Acting strangely

Experts say that many dogs start to behave unusually when they develop the disease. A change in behaviour of your dog can be a sign of cancer, even if it is something minor. It could be something as simple as no longer begging for breakfast or having difficulty falling asleep. But it could also be a dog becoming distant from the family or no longer wanting to go for walks. He may also seem more lethargic than usual. The change can be mild or severe and can happen quickly or over days or weeks. These behavioural changes may indicate that the dog is in pain. Most cancers cause systemic inflammation in the body and the inflammation can make the four-legged friend feel unwell.

2) A sign of cancer can be if the dog suddenly becomes very thirsty and pees a lot

Some dogs with cancer drink incessantly. Their owners usually don’t realise this until they have to go out to pee every hour or two, or even an accident happens in the house. Experts say that some cancers increase the body’s calcium levels, which can make dogs particularly thirsty. Other types of cancer affect the kidneys, which can make the animal pee more. Cancer can also cause internal bleeding, and the blood loss can make the four-legged friend feel thirstier than usual.

3.) Swelling on the puppy

This may seem obvious, but it is very important to watch out for new bumps and lumps. Older dogs often develop benign skin lesions and fatty growths, and many owners assume that new lumps are the same, even though each one needs to be examined individually. New lumps that are firm, irregularly shaped or change rapidly in size, texture or colour may be cancerous.

4) Limping can also be a sign of cancer

Especially in large breeds, joint or bone tumours can develop in the legs. These can make it difficult for dogs to move and usually occur on one leg. It’s best to have an x-ray with a vet to see if this is the case or if the tumour is benign, or if a soft tissue injury is to blame for the limp.

5) Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

If your dog has suddenly lost weight without any changes to his diet or physical activity level, this could also be a sign of cancer. Their body uses more energy to fight the disease, which is why they may lose weight. Tumours in the digestive tract can also interfere with the absorption of nutrients, so the dog may also become thinner as a result.

In addition, many dog owners report that their pet suddenly becomes disinterested in food. Tumours in the mouth, throat or stomach can make eating painful or uncomfortable. All of the above signs can be linked to other health conditions, such as diabetes, injury or infection, or kidney disease, so it is not necessarily cancer. Be sure to see a vet if you experience any of these, as all of these conditions need treatment!