What Is Bone Cancer in Dogs? Can It Be Treated?

If you suspect your dog has bone cancer, or if you’ve recently received a diagnosis from your vet, it can be heartbreaking. 

It’s only natural to be anxious and have many questions. After all, cancer is a major concern for many pet owners. 

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In this article, we are going to examine the types of bone cancer in dogs, how common it is, the causes, rate of spread, as well as treatment options. 

Take a look at our complete guide to dog cancer to answer any other questions you might have about cancers affecting dogs.

How Common is Bone Cancer in Dogs?

Unfortunately, bone cancer is a relatively common type of cancer found in dogs, and roughly 10,000 dogs are diagnosed with this cancer each year. 

Although there are multiple types of bone cancers that affect dogs such as chondrosarcoma (found in the connective tissue and cartilage), and fibrosarcoma (found in the fibroblasts of the connective tissue), osteosarcoma is the most common, accounting for 85% of cases.

Osteosarcoma occurs deep in the bone, gradually moving its way outward as the disease progresses. While osteosarcoma can develop in any of the bones of the body, including the jaw and hips, the vast majority of cases occur in the limbs (called appendicular osteosarcoma). 

Unlike with some other tumors which the majority are benign (non-cancerous and non-spreading), the majority of osteosarcoma tumors are malignant, meaning they are cancerous and the cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body.

What Causes Bone Cancer in Dogs?

As with different types of cancer, determining a singular cause is very difficult, and up to much debate. Various genetic and environmental factors are believed to have a part. However, there are certain risk factors for developing bone cancer. 

Middle-aged and older dogs are at a higher risk for all cancers, including bone cancer. Osteosarcoma also tends to affect higher percentages of larger dogs such as Great Danes, Rottweilers, and Scottish Deerhounds. 

Symptoms of Bone Cancer in Dogs

How do you know if your dog has bone cancer? While they may present differently in each case, there are some signs you can look out for.

• Joint or limb pain
• Lameness (either intermittent or constant)
• Swelling or a mass
• Lethargy and/or loss of appetite
• Reluctance to exercise

How Fast Does Bone Cancer Spread in Dogs?

Unfortunately, bone cancer in dogs is a very aggressive cancer. It also has a high tendency to metastasize (or spread) to other parts of the body. 

Because of its aggressive nature and the difficulty of early recognition and diagnosis, by the time of detection, the majority of malignant tumors have already metastasized, spreading microscopic cancer cells to additional places in the body, most commonly the lungs. 

Of course, keeping on top of your pup’s health with regular check ups is an important step in making sure you can catch the cancer as early as possible, which can minimize the scope of it spreading before treatment can be started. 

Can Bone Cancer in Dogs Be Treated Naturally?

Once a definitive diagnosis has been made, you want to start treatment as soon as possible. Reducing the delay between diagnosis and a start of treatment is recommended to increase life expectancy and reduce pain. Your vet may suggest surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation treatment to treat your pet.

Naturally, you want to offer the best options possible for your companion. You’re willing to do anything you can to help his/her fight against cancer, and here at Zumalka we share that desire. That is why we have designed PIPTOPET, a broadband natural antiviral and antibiotic product. 

Piptopet has been designed as a natural aid to animal who's fighting against cancer. It has undeniable anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties, meaning it is a great ally for your dog who's fighting unhealthy cancerous cells without negatively disrupting healthy cells. As an incredible immune system booster, this natural product ensures your dog is best equipped. A good immune system can help your dog reducing the occurrences of secondary infections. 

While a bone cancer diagnosis for your pup is never easy to hear, there are options available to give your pet the best care possible, no matter the circumstances!