Cancer in dogs

Dogs can develop carcinomas of epithelial cells and organs, sarcomas of connective tissues and bones, and lymphomas or leukemias of the circulatory system.

[2] Carcinogenesis is linked with DNA mutations, chromosomal translocations, dysfunctional proteins, and aberrant cell cycle regulators.

Selection for specific phenotypes in dog breeding causes long-range linkage disequilibrium in their DNA.

[1] Certain areas of alleles have the tendency to separate less frequently than normal random segregation, which leads to long ranges of repeated DNA sequences.

The tumors are most fatal when they rupture, causing the dog to suffer from severe loss of blood, or hypovolemia.

[7] The cancerous cell lines are transmitted between individuals that are in close contact with each other through acts of intercourse, biting, scratching, or licking.

[1] Boxers, Boston Terriers and Golden Retrievers are among the breeds that most commonly develop mast cell tumors.

[8][9] Spayed female dogs are less likely to develop cancers affecting the mammary glands, ovaries, and other reproductive organs.

[13] There is limited information about canine tumor antigens, which is the reason for the lack of tumor-specific vaccines and immunotherapy treatment plans for dogs.

The heterogeneity of tumors makes drug development increasingly complex, especially as new causes are discovered.

[2] Some dog owners opt for no treatment of the cancer at all, in which case palliative care, including pain relief, may be offered.

If the owner opts for palliative care instead of treatment, the dog will live about 3 months, although if the tumor is partially removed this can be extended.

If a tumor is completely removed, usually the pet will receive small doses of radiation in hopes of preventing recurrence.