Checking your female dog for mammary tumours

If you have a female dog, you need to be aware that she's at risk of developing mammary tumours, especially as she gets older. This is because they often appear late in life in female dogs that are unneutered or were neutered late.

What are mammary tumours?

Unfortunately, some mammary tumours found in female dogs are malignant, similar to breast cancer in humans. However, as with other tumours, it's impossible to tell if one is benign or malignant just by looking. The lump needs to be analysed.

Often, a dog won't show other symptoms of mammary tumours, so it's up to her owner to detect them. However, common signs of cancer in dogs include fatigue and weight loss.

Detecting a mammary tumour early means less extensive surgery for your dog and a lower risk of the tumour spreading. It’s therefore important to get into the habit of regularly feeling your dog's mammary glands.

Here's how to examine your female dogs mammary glands

• Feel the chest all the way from the groin to the armpit – on both sides. You need to check each part thoroughly.

• If you feel any change – such as swelling, a lump, or a rough patch – you may have found something that needs veterinary attention. Also, look out for redness or sores.

If you suspect your dog has a mammary tumour, make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible for a check-up.