Canine Oral Tumors: Early Detection and Treatment Options

10 Jan Canine Oral Tumors: Early Detection and Treatment Options

Oral tumors in dogs are an often overlooked but critical aspect of veterinary health. These tumors can manifest in various forms, ranging from benign growths to aggressive malignancies. While the exact cause of most canine oral tumors remains unknown, early detection and intervention are crucial in managing these conditions and improving the prognosis for affected pets. In this blog, we will explore the types of oral tumors commonly found in dogs, how to detect them early, and the treatment options available.

Understanding Canine Oral Tumors

Oral tumors in dogs can be broadly classified into two categories: benign and malignant. Both types can cause significant discomfort or health issues, but malignant tumors tend to be more aggressive and can spread to other parts of the body.

1. Benign Oral Tumors

Benign tumors are typically non-cancerous and less likely to spread to other tissues. The most common benign oral tumors in dogs include:

• Peripheral Odontogenic Fibromas: These are the most benign oral tumors in dogs. They originate on gum tissue. While most often slow growing, they occasionally can increase in size rapidly. They become problematic when they compromise the tooth or teeth they involve. These benign oral masses were previously referred to as “epulides”, but this phrase has fallen out of favor for many reasons. 
• Ameloblastomas: These tumors are benign, but still very locally aggressive. They may appear to involve only the tissues around a tooth, but they always invade surrounding bone. They should be surgically removed by a board-certified veterinary dentist. 
• Papillomas: These are wart-like growths that can appear in the oral cavity and are typically caused by the canine papillomavirus. Papillomas often resolve on their own, but they can be removed if they cause pain or discomfort. Fortunately, these growths are not common. 

2. Malignant Oral Tumors

Malignant tumors are cancerous and can spread to other parts of the body (metastasize), which makes early detection crucial for a successful outcome. The most common malignant tumors in dogs include:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This is one of the most common and aggressive types of oral cancer in dogs. SCC usually affects the gums, tongue, or palate and can invade surrounding tissues quickly.
• Melanoma: Canine melanoma is another common form of oral cancer. It can appear as dark, pigmented masses in the mouth and may metastasize rapidly to the lymph nodes and lungs.
• Fibrosarcoma: A tumor of the connective tissues, fibrosarcoma is a highly aggressive cancer that can invade nearby tissues and metastasize. Metastasis is slower to occur than melanomas

Recognizing the Signs of Oral Tumors in Dogs

Oral tumors, especially in the early stages, can be difficult to detect. However, there are several symptoms to watch for that may indicate a problem with your dog’s oral health:

• Bad breath (halitosis): Unpleasant or foul-smelling breath is a common sign that something is wrong in the mouth.
• Difficulty eating or chewing: If your dog is reluctant to eat, drops food, or has trouble chewing, it could indicate pain or discomfort from a tumor. This is due to a tumor increasing in size and the dog biting down on the enlarging tissue.
• Drooling: Excessive drooling, particularly if accompanied by difficulty swallowing, can be a sign of oral tumors. Quite often the drool has streaks of blood in it. 
• Swelling or lumps in the mouth: Any visible swelling, lumps, or growths on the gums, lips, or tongue should be investigated. Quite often the first sign of an oral tumor is facial swelling. 
• Bleeding or sores: If you notice unexplained bleeding in the mouth or non-healing sores, this may be indicative of a malignant tumor.
• Changes in behavior: Increased irritability, reduced activity, or pawing at the mouth can signal that your dog is in pain.

If you observe any of these signs, it’s crucial to schedule a veterinary examination as soon as possible. Early detection of oral tumors increases the chances of effective treatment and a positive outcome.

Diagnostic Tools for Oral Tumors

When a potential oral tumor is detected, your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination. Diagnostic tools commonly used to confirm the presence and type of tumor include:

• Oral Examination: A visual and tactile examination of the mouth is the first step. Your vet will look for abnormal growths, bleeding, or ulcers.
• Biopsy: A small tissue sample may be taken from the tumor to determine whether it is benign or malignant. This is the most reliable method for diagnosing the type of tumor. It is very important that a veterinarian not try to remove a tumor without first taking smaller biopsy samples. This allows a veterinarian to make the decision on how best to remove a tumor and if the dog owner should be referred to a veterinary dentist to perform the oral surgery. 
• X-rays: X-rays can be used to assess the extent of the tumor, particularly if it has invaded the bone or spread to surrounding tissues. While dental radiographs are helpful, they have a limited field of view. 
• CT/MRI Scans: In cases where the tumor is large, or the diagnosis is unclear, advanced imaging techniques like CT or MRI may be employed to get a better view of the tumor’s size, location, and potential metastasis. Most veterinary dentists now have cone beam CT (CBCT) units in their facilities that allow them to perform scans “chairside” that can be interpreted within minutes. 

Treatment Options for Canine Oral Tumors

The treatment of oral tumors in dogs depends on the type of tumor, its location, and whether it has spread. There are several treatment options available, each with its own set of benefits and risks:

1. Surgical Removal

Surgery is the most common treatment for both benign and malignant oral tumors. For benign tumors, the goal is to completely remove the growth with minimal damage to surrounding tissues. In cases of malignant tumors, surgery aims to remove the tumor tissue with needed margins that decrease the chances of the tumor recurring. It is critical that all involved teeth be completely removed and that no roots of these teeth are left behind. Veterinary dentists are trained and equipped to be sure this mandatory aspect of oral surgery is adhered to. 

• Challenges: In some cases, surgery can be difficult if the tumor is located in a hard-to-reach area or has invaded vital structures, such as the jaw or palate. These surgeries are best performed by board-certified veterinary dentists who are also oral surgeons. 
• Prognosis: The prognosis for dogs with benign tumors is typically very good, especially if the tumor is diagnosed early and fully excised. However, for malignant tumors, the success of surgery depends on early detection and the extent of the disease. The initial biopsy results will allow a veterinarian to determine the short- and long-term prognosis.

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy can be used to shrink or control the growth of tumors that cannot be completely removed by surgery, especially if the tumor has spread. It is often used in conjunction with surgery to ensure that any remaining cancerous cells are eradicated. Radiation therapy is always performed at veterinary specialty hospitals. Most of these facilities are at veterinary colleges. 

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is another treatment option for malignant oral tumors, especially if the cancer has spread beyond the mouth. Chemotherapy is typically used to target and kill cancer cells that may have metastasized to other parts of the body. It is very important to remember that chemotherapy in dogs and cats is done in a very humane way. We never want sick patients in response to a treatment. Chemotherapy drugs are never used in doses that will cause known side effects. 

• Benefits: Chemotherapy can help control the spread of cancer and improve the quality of life in dogs with metastatic disease. It can also decrease or even remove the risk of metastatic spread. 
• Side Effects: Chemotherapy can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and decreased immune function, but these are often manageable with supportive care.

4. Palliative Care

For dogs with advanced, untreatable oral cancer, palliative care can help manage pain and improve quality of life. This may include pain management, nutritional support, and other comfort measures to keep the dog as comfortable as possible.

Prevention and Prognosis

Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed way to prevent oral tumors in dogs. Regular veterinary check-ups, however, can help detect tumors early and give your pet the best chance of successful treatment. 

The prognosis for dogs with oral tumors varies significantly depending on the tumor’s type, size, and location, as well as the stage at which it is diagnosed. Benign tumors, when detected early and surgically removed, often result in a full recovery. Malignant tumors, however, require more intensive treatment and ongoing monitoring to manage the disease and prevent recurrence.

Conclusion

Oral tumors in dogs can pose significant health risks, but early detection and prompt treatment can make a considerable difference in the outcome. Regular veterinary check-ups, awareness of your dog’s oral health, and quick intervention when symptoms arise are key to managing these tumors effectively. If you suspect your dog may have an oral tumor, don’t wait—schedule a visit to your veterinarian to ensure the best possible care for your furry companion.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (01/10/2025) Image by Alexandr Ivanov from Pixabay