As years go by, your dog can show different kinds of worrisome behavior, which may or may not be related to cancer. It is not a good thing to always think of the worst case scenario but similarly, being completely easy-going when your dog is clearly experiencing some sort of physical trouble is not how a responsible pet owner should act. Therefore, it is best to get informed about all possible warning signs of cancer so that you can make sure that your dog is well cared for and, if possible, avoid any more serious problems.
Coughing and difficulty breathing
Again, if your dog coughs, especially only once or twice a day, this is no reason to make a mountain out of a molehill. The real reason for concern is when your dog starts coughing very often and show difficulties when breathing. This can be easily noticed because you will be able to hear every breath of your pet as if it has a sore throat or a cold. This is not normal for pets in any way and you should not treat it like a common cold that humans experience. Taking your dog to the vet is of utmost importance if you want your pet to receive the best and quickest treatment.
Often collapsing
If your dog, and especially large breed dog, suddenly starts collapsing and shows signs of weakness, this is a moment for concern and you should definitely bring it to the vet for a checkup. Your dog does not have to necessarily collapse, but if you notice that it is reluctant to move, welcome you at the door or gate and is completely disinterested in any physical activity and play, the odds are that something is definitely wrong even if it is not cancer-related.
Weight loss and weight gain
Both weight loss and gain in dogs can be a serious symptom of cancer. If you notice that your dog does not have the appetite or completely stops eating, this is a reason for concern on its own. Moreover, noticing that your dog eats normally but still loses weight should definitely prompt your immediate action. Similarly, seeing that your dog lose its appetite but seems to gain weight or get bloated should also be treated as a potential cancer risk.
Nosebleed and discharge
While nosebleed in younger dogs is usually a sign of a foreign object in the nose, nosebleed in older dogs is very worrisome because it can point to nose cancer. The same goes for excessive discharge from nose and eyes. Even if your dog seems perfectly healthy otherwise, you should still bring it to the vet.
Dangerous seizures
Seizure-like behavior such as uncontrolled activity, leg movement and mouth foaming are potential signs of brain tumor and concern should be even bigger if older dog is in question. If the seizures are combined with collapsing a short while after the burst of hyperactivity, there is definitely no time to lose in taking your dog to the vet.
Strange skin changes
Pet and groom your dog as often as you can because this is the best way to notice any possible skin changes such as bumps and lumps. There is no way to tell whether these changes are harmless or not without taking a sample so do not be lazy to take your dog to the clinic to have this procedure done. Wounds and cuts that will not heal are also a reason for concern, even though this condition might not be related to cancer only.
Inability to control bladder
Like humans, pets will also have some occasional changes in bathroom routine depending on what they eat. Therefore, having diarrhea from time to time is not really that big of a deal for dogs but it is definitely a sign of something more dangerous if diarrhea starts happening all the time. Together with inability to control bladder and urinating while doing some other activities are valid reasons for concern.
The moment you decide to take in a dog into your household, you have to realize that you have responsibility towards the new animal family member. Therefore, provide your dog with proper care and love and always be cautious when some of the above mentioned symptoms show.
