The bumps that you are noticing under your dog’s skin could potentially be lipomas. Lipomas are quite common in dogs and are essentially soft, round lumps of flesh that develop beneath the skin. These tumors are composed entirely of fat cells and are always benign, meaning they are not cancerous.
Lipomas tend to occur more frequently in older dogs and those who are overweight or obese. While larger breeds are more prone to developing lipomas, they can also be found in small breeds. It’s important to note that lipomas can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the trunk, neck, and legs.
One distinguishing characteristic of lipomas is their soft and squishy texture. They are usually easily movable under the skin and can vary in size. In some cases, lipomas may grow quite large and become noticeable to the pet owner. However, lipomas generally do not cause any pain or discomfort to the dog unless they are in a location that affects their movement or puts pressure on surrounding structures.
If you discover a bump on your dog’s skin, it is always advisable to have it checked by a veterinarian to confirm whether it is indeed a lipoma. The vet will perform a physical examination and may also recommend further diagnostic tests such as a fine-needle aspiration or biopsy to rule out any other possible causes.
It’s worth mentioning that while lipomas are typically harmless, there are other types of lumps and bumps that can develop under a dog’s skin which may require different treatment approaches. These can include cysts, abscesses, mast cell tumors, and other types of benign or malignant growths. Therefore, it is crucial to have any new or unusual lumps evaluated by a professional to ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate management.
In my own experience as a veterinarian, I have encountered numerous cases of lipomas in dogs. I have often found these fatty tumors in older dogs, particularly those who struggle with weight issues. One memorable case involved a Labrador Retriever who had multiple lipomas scattered throughout his body. Despite their presence, the dog remained happy and showed no signs of discomfort. We closely monitored the growth of these lipomas and opted for surgical removal only when they posed a risk to the dog’s mobility or impacted nearby structures.
To summarize, the bumps under your dog’s skin may potentially be lipomas, which are benign fatty tumors. They are more commonly found in older dogs and those who are overweight. Lipomas are typically soft and movable under the skin and do not cause pain or discomfort unless they are in a problematic location. However, it is important to have any new or concerning lumps evaluated by a veterinarian to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.