5 Tips to Prevent Breast Cancer in Dogs

5 Tips to Prevent Breast Cancer in Dogs


Find out how simple care can make a difference to your pet’s health

The Pink October campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the prevention and early diagnosis of breast cancer in humans, also serves as a warning to pet owners. This is because the disease doesn’t just affect women: female dogs can also develop mammary tumors, especially when they don’t receive preventative care.




Breast cancer in dogs is characterized by the appearance of lumps or nodules in the breast region, which can increase in size, harden and, in advanced cases, even ulcerate. Symptoms include swelling, discharge, local pain, and changes in appetite and behavior. THE illness It can be aggressive and affect other organs if not diagnosed and treated quickly.

According to veterinarian Kelly Moura, hormonal stimulation is the leading cause of breast tumors in dogs. But there are also other factors that can contribute to the onset of the disease, such as obesity. Therefore prevention is the best way to protect your dog’s health.

Below, check out some tips for preventing breast cancer in dogs!

1. Perform early neutering

THE castration It is considered the main way to prevent breast cancer in female dogs. This happens because the procedure interrupts the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which are directly related to the development of breast tumors.

Kelly Moura explains that neutering after the first heat prevents the possibility of developing the disease by up to 95%. If it happens after the second run, this percentage drops to 85%. If performed after the third run, the probability of prevention is 70%.

“Early neutering is the main form of prevention. It will not make sense to neuter the dog when the dog is three years old, because it has already been exposed to the hormones responsible for the formation of tumors,” emphasizes the veterinarian.

2. Avoid the use of hormonal contraceptives

Many owners resort to contraceptive injections to prevent their dogs from going into heat. However, these drugs contain hormones that significantly increase the risk of breast cancer and other serious complications, such as pyometra (uterine infection). The best alternative for reproductive control is surgical castration.



Periodic consultations with the veterinarian allow you to timely identify changes.

3. Undergo routine check-ups with your vet

Periodic consultations with the veterinarian allow you to identify health changes before the problem gets worse. During exams, the professional may evaluate the breast, palpate the region, and order imaging tests, such as ultrasound, if suspicious. Detecting nodules at an early stage increases the chances of an effective and less invasive treatment.

4. Observe the changes in your breasts at home

The brace plays a fundamental role in the early diagnosis of breast cancer in females. While cuddling or bathing, you can palpate your breasts and observe if there are any lumps, swelling, discharge or painful areas. This home inspection does not replace a veterinary evaluation, but it helps notice signs that require immediate attention. The recommendation is to consult a professional when you notice a change, even if small, as tumors can grow rapidly.

5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Just like in humans, healthy lifestyle habits in animals also contribute to the prevention of cancer. A food Balance, weight control, exercise and nutritional monitoring help strengthen the immune system. Obesity, for example, is associated with increased risks of developing mammary tumors in female dogs. Thus, ensuring the quality of life for pet It is also a way to reduce the chances of illness.

Source: Terra

You may also like