Lumps & Bumps in Older Dogs
As dogs age, it is common to notice small lumps or changes in the skin.
Many of these are harmless, but understanding what is normal for your dog 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 any obvious discomfort.
Are Most Lumps Serious?
Many lumps in dogs are benign, particularly as they age.
Common examples include:
• fatty lumps (lipomas)
• cysts
• benign skin growths
While many lumps are harmless, some may require further assessment to understand their nature.
When Should a Lump Be Checked?
It is a good idea to have a lump assessed if you notice:
• rapid growth
• firmness or fixation to underlying tissue
• changes in shape, size, 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.
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.
How We Can Help
At Melbourne Dog Clinic, we offer calm, gentle assessment of lumps and skin changes.
You may begin with a nurse screening to document and monitor changes.
If further assessment is needed, we may recommend a veterinary consultation.
You can also book a Senior Comfort & Quality of Life Appointment if there are additional changes in behaviour, appetite, or comfort.
Lumps and Overall Health
Lumps are often just one part of a bigger picture.
Changes in the skin, coat, or body can sometimes occur alongside:
• changes in behaviour
• changes in appetite
• changes in mobility
You can explore these areas further:
→Behaviour Changes in Older Dogs
→Mobility & Arthritis in Older Dogs
When to Book
If you have noticed a new lump or a change in an existing one, it is a good time to have it checked.
Early assessment helps provide clarity and ensures your dog remains comfortable.
A Calm, Considerate Approach
As a Fear Free clinic, we assess lumps in a way that is calm and low-stress.
This includes:
• gentle handling
• allowing time to settle
• tailoring the approach to each dog
You can learn more about supporting your dog as they age on our Senior Dogs page.