There are many different types of cancerous tumors that dogs can get; however, bone cancer can be one of the more difficult to diagnose because the tumors don't show up as readily. There are many different types of bone cancer that can develop in dogs. Some are more common than other, but here are the 6 most common forms of dog bone cancer.
Osteosarcoma Is Most Common Bone Cancer
Osteosarcoma, often referred to as OSA, is the most common type of bone cancer that develops in dogs. OSA destroys a dog's bones from the inside out. It can be very painful for you dog has the tumor continues to grow. OSA is most common in older, large breed dogs.
Many Dogs Get Chondrosarcoma Bone Cancer
Chondrosarcoma, which is referred to as CSA, is the second most common type of bone cancer that is found in dogs. CSA is a cancer of the cartilage and usually found in bones that are flat like the skull or the ribs. This, on average, is not as malignant as OSA and can usually be treated by removing the tumor.
Fibrosarcoma Is a Rare Bone Cancer in Dogs
Fibrosarcoma is a fairly rare form of bone cancer and is often called FSA. This cancer is typically treated through surgery on the infected area. The surgery can involve amputation of the effected area. This bone cancer is usually found in the jaw, ribs and vertebrae.
Hemangiosarcoma Usually Affects Younger Dogs
This is also a rare form of bone cancer that only impacts about 5% of dogs that have bone cancer. This form of cancer usually effects younger dogs and is often treated with medication and amputation.
Multilobular Osteochondrosarcoma is Very Rare
This kind of tumor is very rare and occurs in the lining of the bone, most often in the skull. Treatment options include surgery, but because of where the tumors are often located, surgery can be difficult.
Primary Joint Tumors
This cancer is a little more common in dogs. A dog with this cancer will start to show symptoms that aren't all that uncharacteristic of osteoporosis dogs get. The recommended treatment is amputation, but chemotherapy is an option you could also discuss with your veterinarian.
While the bone tumor dogs get may vary in type, the most common treatment is amputation. This may seem extreme, but if it can limit the effect of the tumor on your dog it may be worth it. The treatment decision will be a discussion that you and your veterinarian will need to have.