Lumps & Bumps in Dogs
Noticing a lump or bump on your dog can be concerning.
Many lumps are harmless, particularly as dogs age, but understanding what is normal for your dog is important.
At Melbourne Dog Clinic, we take a calm, considered approach to assessing lumps, focusing on clarity, reassurance, and your dog’s comfort.
Are Most Lumps Serious?
Many lumps in dogs are benign.
Common examples include:
• fatty lumps (lipomas)
• cysts
• benign skin growths
However, it is not always possible to determine the type of lump based on appearance alone, which is why assessment is important.
What Might You Notice?
You may notice:
• small soft lumps under the skin
• new bumps or skin growths
• changes in existing lumps
• thickened or raised areas of skin
These changes can appear gradually and may not cause obvious discomfort.
When Should a Lump Be Checked?
It is a good idea to have a lump assessed if you notice:
• rapid growth
• firmness or fixation
• changes in size, shape, or appearance
• ulceration or bleeding
• discomfort when touched
If you are unsure, it is always appropriate to have it gently checked.
What Happens at a Lump Check?
Initial assessment focuses on understanding what the lump may be and whether further investigation is needed.
This may include:
• gently feeling and assessing the lump
• measuring and recording its size and location
• monitoring changes over time
In some cases, we may recommend a fine needle aspirate (FNA). This involves using a small needle to collect a sample of cells from the lump, which can help determine the type of lump and guide next steps.
This may be discussed as part of a broader health plan, particularly in older dogs.
What Happens Next?
Based on the findings, we may recommend:
• monitoring the lump over time
• further diagnostic testing
• surgical removal, if appropriate
• referral for additional assessment in more complex cases
In many cases, no immediate treatment is required, and the lump can be safely monitored.
If further care is needed, we will guide you through the options and help you decide on the most appropriate next step for your dog.
Lumps in Older Dogs
Lumps become more common as dogs age.
If your dog is older and you are noticing additional changes such as behaviour shifts, appetite changes, or mobility changes, it may be helpful to explore these together.
While many are harmless, some may require further assessment to understand what they are and whether they need treatment.
Sometimes these changes are first noticed after periods like summer, when routines shift or dogs spend more time outdoors.
During Seniors Month, these checks are often part of a broader health assessment, helping us look at your dog’s overall comfort and wellbeing.
You can learn more on our Senior Dogs page.
If you’ve noticed a new lump or a change in your dog, this is a good time to have it gently assessed.
You can learn more in-depth information on our senior dog appointments below.
→Senior Dog Care & Appointments
Assessments are performed using a low-stress, Fear Free approach, with additional support if your dog feels unsure.
When To Book
If you’ve noticed a new lump or a change in an existing one, it’s a good time to have it gently checked.
Early assessment helps provide clarity and supports your dog’s comfort and wellbeing.
A Calm, Considerate Approach
As a Fear Free clinic, we assess lumps using gentle handling and a low-stress approach.
Our focus is on making the experience as comfortable as possible for your dog.
Book an Appointment
If you are unsure where to start, our team is always happy to guide you.
You can begin with a nurse consultation or book a veterinary appointment, depending on your dog’s needs.