What should you know about canine squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is a cancer arising from cells in the outer skin layer. In dogs it may look like a firm bump, a thickened or crusted patch, an ulcer that does not heal, or a lesion with bleeding or discharge. Appearance alone cannot establish the diagnosis; infection, inflammation, and other growths can look similar.

A veterinarian may examine the lesion and recommend a biopsy. The result helps identify the tumour and guides decisions about its extent and treatment. Lesions can occur on the skin, mouth, toes, or other exposed areas, and location affects the treatment plan.

Book an examination for a growth that persists, enlarges, ulcerates, bleeds, or repeatedly forms a scab. Avoid squeezing, cutting, or applying strong products to it. Photographing the area and noting changes can help the veterinarian assess its progression.

Treatment may involve surgical excision to remove the lesion with a planned margin. Mohs surgery may be considered for selected tumours where preserving nearby tissue matters. A broader skin cancer surgery plan may be discussed when the lesion is large, deep, or in a difficult location.

Arrange prompt veterinary care for a non-healing sore, repeated bleeding, rapid enlargement, severe pain, or a lesion affecting eating, walking, breathing, or vision. After treatment, contact the clinic for wound opening, increasing redness, swelling, discharge, fever, or sudden loss of energy.

Ask whether a biopsy is needed, how far the lesion appears to extend, which operation fits its location, how the wound will be managed, and what follow-up checks are recommended.