From Sniffs to Licks: A Look at Dog Nasal and Oral Tumors

As pet owners, it’s hard to even think about the possibility of cancer affecting our furry friends, but being informed can make a world of difference. Nasal and oral tumors in dogs are conditions that, while rare, can significantly impact your dog’s health if left undiagnosed. The good news is that early detection and treatment can improve their quality of life and even extend it.

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What Are Nasal and Oral Tumors in Dogs?

Nasal and oral tumors are abnormal growths that form in the nose, sinuses, or mouth. They can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). While benign tumors might not spread to other parts of the body, they can still cause significant discomfort and complications by obstructing airflow or interfering with eating and drinking. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, are aggressive and can spread to nearby tissues or distant organs, such as the lungs.

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Types of Nasal Tumors in Dogs

While nasal tumors are relatively rare, they are often malignant when they occur. These are some common types:

Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinomas originate in the glandular tissues lining the nasal passages. This tumor type is locally invasive, destroying surrounding tissues as it grows. Symptoms like nasal bleeding and discharge are common. This is the most common nasal tumor in dogs.⁴

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

SCC forms in the epithelial cells and is particularly destructive. While it tends to remain localized, it can invade bones and nearby structures, leading to significant complications. SCC is a very common form of nasal tumors in dogs, and it is one of the most common in cats. 

Chondrosarcoma

This tumor type arises from cartilage and accounts for 10-15% of nasal tumors in dogs. Although it grows slower than some malignant tumors, it can still lead to extensive nasal blockage and facial deformities.

Fibrosarcoma

Fibrosarcomas develop from connective tissues and can appear in both nasal and oral regions. They are known for their locally invasive nature and potential to recur even after removal.

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Types of Oral Tumors in Dogs

While oral tumors are more common than nasal tumors in dogs, they aren’t the most common form of tumors that dogs can develop, making up around 6-7% of all tumors diagnosed. Below are the various types of oral tumors that can develop:²

Malignant Melanoma

Oral melanomas are among the most aggressive types of tumors in dogs. These dark-pigmented growths often develop on the gums, tongue, or lips and are prone to metastasizing to the lungs, lymph nodes, and other organs. Melanoma is the most common oral tumor in dogs.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A common type of oral cancer, SCC often occurs in the gums or tonsils. It tends to invade the surrounding bone, making surgical removal challenging. This is the most common oral tumor in cats.

Fibrosarcoma

These tumors arise in the connective tissue of the mouth. They are often locally invasive, and even after surgical removal, regrowth is a common issue.

Osteosarcoma

This type of cancer affects the bones of the jaw. It is aggressive and often results in significant pain and difficulty eating. Osteosarcoma is often found in the limbs of larger breed dogs but it can develop in any of the bones in the body.

You can learn more about osteosarcoma in our blog here.

Epulides

These benign tumors originate in the periodontal ligament and are classified into three subtypes: fibromatous, ossifying, and acanthomatous. While they don’t metastasize, they can grow large enough to interfere with chewing and require surgical removal.

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Symptoms of Nasal and Oral Tumors in Dogs

Nasal and oral tumors can manifest with a variety of symptoms, often depending on their location, size, and severity. Being aware of these symptoms can help you recognize potential issues early.

Signs of Nasal Tumors³

• Nasal Discharge: Persistent discharge from one or both nostrils, often mixed with blood, is a hallmark sign.
• Sneezing: Frequent sneezing, sometimes accompanied by blood or mucus.
• Facial Swelling: Swelling or deformity around the nose or eyes can indicate tumor growth.
• Noisy Breathing: Difficulty breathing, often accompanied by snorting or wheezing sounds.
• Loss of Smell or Appetite: Dogs may lose interest in food due to their inability to smell or breathe comfortably.

Signs of Oral Tumors¹

• Visible Masses: Growths in the mouth, gums, or under the tongue are often the first visible sign.
• Halitosis: Bad breath is common, especially with ulcerated or infected tumors.
• Drooling: Excessive drooling, sometimes with blood, indicates discomfort.
• Difficulty Eating or Chewing: Dogs may avoid hard foods or show signs of pain while eating.
• Loose Teeth: Tumors in the jaw can loosen teeth or cause them to fall out.
• Swelling Around the Jaw: Swelling or deformity in the jaw area is often associated with bone invasion.

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How are Nasal and Oral Tumors Diagnosed in Dogs

As with any cancer or medical issues, early and accurate diagnosis is key to formulating an effective treatment plan. Veterinarians use a combination of techniques to identify and classify nasal and oral tumors.

A thorough examination of the nose and mouth is the first step. Veterinarians may use sedation for a detailed look, especially for oral tumors that are painful or hard to access.⁴

Imaging Techniques are one of the first steps toward identifying and diagnosing oral and nasal tumors. 

• X-rays: Help identify bone involvement and assess tumor size.
• CT Scans and MRIs: Provide detailed images of the tumor, including its spread and impact on surrounding tissues. These are particularly useful for surgical planning.

Additional methods of diagnosing a nasal or oral tumor in a dog include: 

1. Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a small sample of the tumor tissue for microscopic analysis. This is the definitive method to determine whether a tumor is benign or malignant and identify its type. A biopsy is crucial to diagnose oral and nasal tumors as small needle aspirates are often non-diagnostic.
2. Rhinoscopy: For nasal tumors, a rhinoscope (a small camera) allows veterinarians to visualize the inside of the nasal passages and collect biopsy samples.
3. Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA): FNA is used to evaluate swollen lymph nodes or detect the spread of cancer to other areas.
4. Blood Tests: While not diagnostic for tumors, blood tests can reveal underlying health issues and assess your dog’s overall health before treatment.

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Treatment Options for Dog Nasal and Oral Tumors

Treating nasal and oral tumors involves a multifaceted approach, often combining surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Surgery

• Nasal Tumors: Surgery for nasal tumors often involves removing parts of the nasal cavity to excise the growth. This is a complex procedure requiring specialized expertise and is rarely used as complications are often greater than the benefit of removal.
• Oral Tumors: Surgical removal is the primary treatment for most oral tumors. In some cases, partial removal of the jawbone (mandibulectomy) is necessary.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is often used alongside surgery or as the primary treatment for inoperable tumors. It is particularly effective for nasal tumors and is the sole therapy, reducing their size and alleviating symptoms.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is used for aggressive tumors like malignant melanoma or when cancer has metastasized. While it may not cure the disease, it can slow progression and improve quality of life. Chemotherapy can also be used to slow down the growth of the tumor if radiation and/or surgery are not pursued.

Immunotherapy

For oral melanomas, a specialized melanoma vaccine helps stimulate the dog’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.

Palliative Care

In advanced cases where remission is unlikely, palliative care focuses on managing symptoms to improve the dog’s quality of life. 

This may include:

• Pain Management: Medications like NSAIDs or opioids to control pain.
• Nutritional Support: Providing soft or liquid diets for dogs struggling to eat.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications: To reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Antibiotics: Oral and nasal tumors are often infected which causes discomfort and antibiotics can alleviate the pain by treating the infection.

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Prognosis for Dogs with Nasal and Oral Tumors

The prognosis depends on several factors, including the type and stage of the tumor, the dog’s overall health, and the treatment approach.

• Nasal Tumors: Dogs with early-stage nasal tumors treated with radiation therapy may survive 1-2 years. Advanced tumors often have a poorer prognosis.³
• Oral Tumors: The prognosis varies widely. Benign tumors have an excellent outlook after removal, while malignant tumors like melanoma or SCC often have a guarded prognosis, especially if they metastasize.

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Preventing Nasal and Oral Tumors in Dogs

While not all tumors can be prevented, there are some actions that pet parents can take to maintain as much of their dog’s health as possible. 

1. Routine Veterinary Check-Ups: Regular exams help catch abnormalities early.
2. Good Dental Hygiene: Brushing your dog’s teeth and scheduling professional cleanings can minimize oral health issues.
3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye out for early signs of discomfort or unusual growths and consult your veterinarian promptly.

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Stay informed to be able to give your pet the best care possible

Nasal and oral tumors in dogs are serious conditions that demand prompt attention and a comprehensive approach to treatment. By understanding the types, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and available treatments, you can take proactive steps to ensure your dog receives the care they need.

If your dog shows any symptoms of nasal or oral tumors, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Early diagnosis and treatment can hopefully increase your dog’s prognosis and overall quality of life.

By staying informed and proactive, you can provide your furry friend with the best possible care, even in the face of challenging health issues.

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