Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My dog has a small lump beneath one of her front nipples. I am planning to ask my regular vet about it when I take her in for shots next month, but it's easier for me to think and know what questions to ask if I know what to expect ahead of time. So I hope you can answer a few questions for me now. The main thing I'm wondering is: Do all mammary tumors in dogs need to be surgically removed, or only those that are malignant? A book I have does not make that clear. And if benign tumors can just be left alone, could this lump be biopsied to see what it is? If so, what would a biopsy entail? Could it be taken without using a general anesthetic?

I'm really worried about this.
Thanks for your time.

Benign tumors don't have to be removed, but benign tumors can become malignant. Determining the status of a mass is best done by examining the tumor microscopically once it is removed, which requires general anesthesia. It can also be staged eith a needle biopsy or fine needle aspirate, but less accurately so. Depending on the location and size of the mass, it may be possible to do without general anesthesia.