Causes of Lumps and Masses in the Mouth in Dogs

Humans are not the only ones to get lumps and bumps on their bodies, canines are also notoriously popular in developing odd looking masses and growths. According to the Pet Cancer Center, oral cancer is the fourth most common cancer overall. A mass in the mouth can be caused by several conditions, but since there are always chances for cancer, as in humans, any suspected lump or bump should be biopsied to rule out this possibility.

Problem is, not always such growths are discovered by humans. Sometimes, the growth is hiding under the tongue and therefore can only be seen when the dog keeps the tongue to the side, sometimes the lump is in the back of the mouth or in the top roof of the mouth. This is why it is always recommended for dog owners to inspect the mouth on a frequent basis, and often the best way is by brushing the teeth on a routine basis. Following are some of the most common causes of lumps, bumps, or growths in a dog's mouth.

• Canine Viral PapillomasThese are small growths characterized by a jagged surface, almost resembling often a cauliflower or sea anemone in shape. However, at times they can be smooth. They are typically found on the lips and muzzles of dogs under the age of two. These papillomas are contagious between dogs and therefore are transmitted with direct contact. Generally, these growths go away on their own within 5 months. While rare, there have been some of these growths turn malignant, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.

• Epulis

This is the most common type of benign growth found in a dog's mouth and is also simply known as a ''gum boil''. This growth is the same color of the gums, pretty smooth and is typically often found between the incisors or canine teeth. Sometimes it may present a stalk-like peduncle. These growths are generally found in older dogs over the age of six and the Boxer breed along with other brachycephalic or short-nosed breeds may be predisposed to it. As this mass enlarges it may start causing trouble such as drooling, bleeding, difficulty eating, and bad breath. At times, the growth may cause the teeth to shift and grow misaligned. There are three types of epulis: fibromatous, ossifying and acanthomatous. A vet will biopsy the growth to rule out cancer. These growths are removed surgically. Prognosis is pretty good for small epulis.

These are the tree most common malignant oral cancers found in dogs with melanoma affecting 30% to 40% dogs, squamous cell carcinoma affecting 17% to 25%, and fibrosarcoma affecting 8% to 25% according to Virginia J. Coyle, DVM, and Laura D. Garrett, DVM, DACVIM (oncology).

• Malignant Melanoma

This is the most common oral malignancy in dogs. Oral malignant melanoma tends to develop when there is an abnormal cell division of melanocytes. It typically appears on the gums, the lip, the palate, and sometimes on the tongue of older pets and can cause symptoms such as trouble eating (preferring soft foods), oral bleeding, facial swelling and bad breath. Commonly affected breeds are those with pigmented mouth tissues such as Chow Chow, however other predisposed breeds are poodles, dachshunds, Scottish terriers and golden retrievers These tumors are known for spreading quickly and aggressively to other parts of the body, the preferred site being the lungs and regional lymph nodes.

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This form of cancer is more common in cats, however dogs occasionally get it as well. Affected dogs will drool, develop difficulty eating, and have bad breath. This cancer has a prevalence for developing in the gingiva and is locally aggressive, but may spread late in the disease. If the mass is found in the front part of the mouth, there are good chances that surgery can be curative, according to Vet Surgery Central Inc.

• Fibrosarcomas

These are malignant tumors that are locally invasive but may spread to other parts of the body, a process known as ''metastasis''. These tumors originate from the fibrous tissue of the mouth and may appear as a red growth or ulcer. These tumors have a tendency to ulcerate and bleed but do not generally spread as quickly as other tumors.

Some less common but also malignant oral tumors found in dogs include osteosarcoma, mast cell tumor, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, plasma cell tumor, and multilobular tumor of bone.

These are just a few examples of the most common oral growths found in a dog's mouth. Should your dog develop a growth, lump, mass,no matter how small it is, it is best to have a vet take a look at it. Because cancer may be a possibility, timing is of the essence.

Disclaimer: This article is not to be used as a substitute for veterinary advice. If your dog develops a lump, bump, mass, or growth, have him or seen by a veterinarian promptly. By reading this article you accept this disclaimer.