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Tumours in dogs


Cancer & tumours in dogs

What are cancer and tumors, and what are the differences?

Cancer is a collective term for uncontrolled cell growth that can occur in various tissues of the body. This results in tumors, i.e., tissue growths that can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors grow slowly, do not invade surrounding tissue, and do not metastasize. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, can spread rapidly, destroying healthy tissue and spreading to other parts of the body.

Possible Causes

Known risk factors include:

  • Genetics: Certain dog breeds have an increased predisposition to cancer.
  • Environmental Factors: Pollutants such as pesticides, cigarette smoke, or environmental toxins can play a role.
  • Diet: A lack of high-quality nutrients or long-term feeding of low-quality food can strain the immune system.
  • Age: With increasing age, the risk of developing cancer increases become ill.
  • Hormonal influences: Uncontrolled hormonal fluctuations can promote tumors.

Symptoms and diagnosis of cancer


Symptoms

The signs of cancer in dogs can vary depending on the type, location and progression of the disease. Common symptoms include:

  • Swelling or lumps that do not go down.
  • Loss of appetite or weight loss.
  • Changes in behaviour, such as lethargy or malaise.
  • Problems breathing, swallowing or excreting.
  • Non-healing wounds or bleeding.
  • Lameness or pain that cannot be explained.

Diagnosis

A reliable diagnosis requires a thorough veterinary examination, which may include the following:

  • Blood tests: checking organ function and inflammation levels.
  • Imaging procedures: X-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI to localise tumours.
  • Biopsy: Removal of tissue samples for microscopic examination.
  • Fine needle aspiration: Analysis of cell material from a tumour.

Which dog breeds are particularly affected?

Some breeds have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer. Examples are:

  • Golden Retriever: Predisposition to lymphomas and haemangiosarcomas.
  • Bernese Mountain Dog: Frequent osteosarcomas and histiocytic tumours.
  • Boxer: Prone to mast cell tumours.
  • German Shepherds: Frequent haemangiosarcomas and lymphomas.
  • Rottweiler: Higher risk of bone sarcomas.

Medicinal Mushrooms: Natural helpers for cell strength

The medicinal mushrooms Reishi, Shiitake, and Polyporus originate from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and have been valued for their beneficial properties for thousands of years.

  1. Reishi (colloquially "Mushroom of Immortality"):

    • Contains triterpenes and polysaccharides that may have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties.
    • Studies* suggest that Reishi has antioxidant effects and can protect cells from damage.
  2. Shiitake:

    • Contains lentinan, which according to research has shown positive effects.
    • In Japan, lentinan (Shiitake) is approved for the treatment of patients with stomach or colon cancer (Oba K/Anticancer Res 2009).
  3. Polyporus:

    • Promotes detoxification and fluid balance.
    • Activates the immune system.

Further information & research on Medicinal Mushrooms

For interested readers, we provide general information and selected studies on various aspects of medicinal mushrooms and their mechanisms of action. Please note that these links are for general information purposes only and do not represent any direct healing claims. Research into the diverse properties of natural substances is continuously ongoing.

Everyday tips for dog owners

Regardless of diagnosis or risk factors, there are many ways to make everyday life as pleasant as possible for you and your dog. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and loving attention play an important role. Carefully observe any changes in your dog's behavior or appearance and, if you have any concerns, seek advice from a veterinary alternative practitioner or veterinarian early on. A structured daily routine with set feeding and rest times can give your dog security. Small shared rituals, mental stimulation, and a stress-free environment as much as possible help promote your dog's quality of life in everyday life.

You and your dog: Every dog is unique and deserves individual attention – especially during special phases of life. With mindfulness, patience, and good veterinary care, you can do much to ensure your dog has the most fulfilling life possible by your side.


Our veterinarian


Veterinary expertise at the heart of our team

Dr. med. vet. Sibylle Ott plays a central role in our team at DOG FIT by PreThis®. As an experienced veterinarian with naturopathic expertise, she makes a decisive contribution to the development of our products. Her experience and deep understanding of the needs of dogs flow into many of the formulas we create. She is a valuable asset to our team and to the well-being of many dogs.

Frau Dr. med. vet. Ott
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice from a veterinary practitioner or veterinarian. The information is not exhaustive and does not constitute a suitable basis for health-related decisions or self-diagnosis. If you have any questions or concerns, or before administering any supplemental feed, consult a veterinary practitioner or veterinarian. Supplemental feed is not intended to cure any disease.