Soft Lumps Appearing Under a 9-Year-Old Vizsla's Skin
by Mary Anne
Soft, painless lumps that move under the skin are very often lipomas, which are benign fatty lumps. They are common in middle-aged and older dogs, many dogs get more than one, and the armpits, chest and sides are typical spots. Lipomas can feel soft, even slightly fluid-like, but cysts and other growths can feel the same way.
The catch is that you can't be sure by feel. Some cancers, including mast cell tumors, can feel soft too. The good news is that checking is usually simple: your vet can take a quick needle sample from each lump, often without sedation, and look at the cells under a microscope. Most lipomas don't need to be removed at all.
Until then, measure each lump with a ruler or tape measure, take a photo and write down the date, then recheck monthly. Ask your vet to recheck sooner if one grows quickly, feels firm or fixed in place, or starts to bother her. Removal is usually only suggested if a lipoma is growing fast, in an awkward spot such as the armpit where it can affect movement, or not clearly a lipoma. New lumps appearing over time is common and doesn't mean each one has to be removed. If cost is a worry, ask your vet about a payment plan, or look for a low-cost clinic, humane society clinic or veterinary school near you.
See lipomas in dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
