One of the most common causes of death for dogs, cancer is a formidable disease that can impact your pup’s life greatly. Fortunately, with proper care and treatment, most dogs with cancer can still live fulfilling lives.

Common Cancers in Dogs

Just like with human cancer, tumours in dogs can come in many different forms and some occur more frequently than others. Here’s a look at some of the more common canine cancers and symptoms of cancer in dogs:

It’s also important to note what factors contribute to your pup being more susceptible to cancer. For instance, having other health issues like obesity can lead to a higher chance of getting cancer. Others include smoking around your pup, over-exposure to the sun, or not spaying/neutering them. 

In addition, the breed of dog may also affect the chance of your pup getting cancer. Here are some dog breeds that have a higher chance of contracting cancer: 

• Rottweilers
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• German Shepherds
• Great Danes
• Labrador Retrievers
• Bichon Frises
• Boxers
• Golden Retriever

If your pup belongs to any of the above breeds, fret not! Just make sure to read up on canine cancer and the ways you can help prevent or manage it. You may also want to approach your local vet for tips on how to prevent and spot canine cancer.

Treating Canine Cancer

If your pup experiences any of the above symptoms, get them to a vet right away for a full checkup. With any luck, your vet can help your pup sort through their condition and assess what’s best for them through tests like blood tests and urinalysis.

However, in the situation where your dog does have cancer there are several treatment options pet veterinarians may recommend to you. This includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. Treating some cancers may require a combination of any of these methods. It’s important to note the cost of some of these treatments and set aside enough money for this purpose.

Your vet may also recommend you to visit a Veterinary Oncologist, a certified specialist in cancer treatment. To be prepared, you may also want to google “dog oncologist near me” and find out where you can go for more information and treatment for your pup.

Caring for Dogs With Cancer

Caring for pups with canine cancer can be difficult. But the most important thing is to help manage your pup’s condition and keep their quality of life up as best as you can. This way, your pup can overcome the necessary treatments and enjoy the end of their lives. 

Here are some ways you can help manage your dog’s condition effectively:

Dog Cancer Diet

One of the ways to help manage your pup’s condition is to review their diet and choose suitable dog cancer diet options. Here are some ways you can change your pup’s diet:

1. Reduce the amount of carbohydrates in your pup’s meal. This may reduce their overall energy level, but in the long run this will help reduce the energy that their cancer cells use.
2. Add fish oil supplements and other suitable supplements like Dr. Mercola’s Vitamin B Supplements for Dogs. Omega3 Fatty acids in particular are great supplements in food for dogs with cancer as they can help reduce some of the cancer’s effect on your pup’s metabolism.

Treat your pup to food with high palatability. During this period your dog may experience a loss in appetite. Make sure to get them as interested in their food as possible by making them tasty and fun. Feeding your pup more pungent foods like Bone Broth Dr. Premium Salmon Frozen Bone Broth For Dogs is a great way of keeping your pup’s morale and appetite high.

Good options for dog cancer diets include The Grateful Pet Cooked Dog Food (Wild Kangaroo). Delicious and chock full of fresh ingredients, this single protein diet also has no salt or additives. 

Be Prepared

In order to give your pup the best care that you can, arm yourself with the right information. Ask your vet as many questions as you can - from what the best dog food for cancer is, to how you can help them stay comfortable and even to how you can recognise pain.

The latter is especially important with canine cancer patients as cancer pain can be a huge source of discomfort. Understanding when your dog is experiencing pain and discomfort can help you address their living situation better. It may also help you inform your vet more effectively on your dog’s condition.

Most importantly, prep your house for your dog’s comfort.Get more comfortable dog beds like Big Borky Orthopedic Dog Bed and position their play area strategically. You may also want to get suitable supplements to help boost your pup’s general health when you can, such as Augustine Approved’s Faith’s Cleanse & Detox Supplement Powder.

Be Happy

This tip may seem strange, but dogs are often hyper aware of their owners’ mood. Your mood and anxiety can also make your pup more anxious than they should be. If possible, set up rituals and a daily habit that can help your pup reduce their stress levels.

If your dog is particularly stressed or unhappy, make sure to spend more time with them and inform your vet if their behaviour is abnormal.

At the end of the day, caring for a pup with cancer will definitely be challenging and often heartbreaking. Thankfully, with the right amount of preparation and research, you’ll be well equipped to take care of your pups needs, whatever they may be. Quell any doubts and worries you may have with your veterinarian and prepare whatever your dog may need ahead of time.

Most importantly, build more memories and enjoy the precious moments you have with your furry friend. Instead of spending too much time worrying about them or about things you may not be able to change, be present and with them, to make sure they’re as comfortable and happy as they can be.

Tammi writes articles about anything from data analytics to animal health, and loves doing the occasional craft. But most importantly, she loves hanging out and doing photo-shoots with her dog.