What should you know about cutaneous melanoma in dogs?

A melanoma may look like a dark, raised, irregular, or changing lump, although some are not visibly dark. Location matters: tumours on haired skin, the mouth, nail bed, or other sites can behave differently. A veterinarian cannot determine risk from colour alone. Examination may be followed by a needle sample or biopsy, laboratory review, and checks of nearby lymph nodes or other areas when spread is a concern. A skin lump is not automatically melanoma; testing is what separates it from benign growths and other tumours.

Arrange veterinary assessment for a new, enlarging, bleeding, ulcerated, or repeatedly irritated growth. Photograph it beside a familiar object, prevent chewing if possible, and avoid cutting or treating it at home. Treatment may involve Surgical Excision or broader Tumour Removal Surgery, depending on the site and margins that can be achieved. A specialist may discuss sentinel lymph node evaluation, additional staging, or Immunotherapy when appropriate for the individual dog.

Seek prompt care if a lesion bleeds, becomes infected-looking, causes pain, or interferes with walking, eating, swallowing, or vision. Urgent help is needed for breathing difficulty, collapse, severe weakness, or repeated vomiting. Possible spread to distant organs can cause different symptoms, but symptoms alone cannot identify where a tumour has travelled; the veterinary team decides which tests are useful.

What sample will establish the diagnosis? Does the location change the treatment plan? Should lymph nodes or the chest be assessed? What margins are realistic for surgery? Could Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy or Immunotherapy be relevant, and what follow-up schedule do you recommend?