Possible symptoms of a dog brain tumor range from imperceptible to extreme. Tumors may develop in any part of the brain, with symptoms evident over time or abruptly. As the person who knows your dog the best, you are likely to be the first one to notice any physical and psychological changes signaling a brain tumor. Both malignant and non-malignant tumors pose a threat, so it is important for you to know how to recognize symptoms, no matter how subtle. The sooner treatment begins, the better chance your dog has for survival.
Physical Symptoms of a Dog Brain Tumor
Signs a tumor may be impairing your dog's motor skills and bodily functioning are:
- Changes in gait, including a slower walk
- Falls due to loss of balance
- Difficulty jumping and climbing
- Loss of senses, including sight and smell
- Hypersensitivity to touch
- Difficulty moving the eyes
- Reduced appetite
- Difficulty swallowing
- Excessive thirst
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Facial paralysis
- Head tilting
- Pressing the face against a hard surface
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Seizures
Psychological Symptoms of a Dog Brain Tumor
Signs a tumor may be compromising your dog's mental functioning and mental health are:
- Personality reversal-for example, docile dogs becoming aggressive and aggressive dogs becoming docile
- Compulsions, including eating and barking
- Depression
- Disorientation, including an inability to recognize your voice or find the way home
Your dog may also communicate the extreme discomfort and distress caused by a brain tumor by whimpering, whining and whelping. The presence of one or more symptoms of a dog brain tumor necessitates prompt evaluation by a vet. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Such options can be highly effective, but extremely expensive.