What should you know about hepatic lymphoma in dogs?

Lymphoma begins in lymphoid cells and can involve the liver as part of a wider illness or as a major site of disease. Affected dogs may show reduced appetite, vomiting, tiredness, weight loss, increased thirst or a swollen abdomen. The liver may be enlarged, and blood tests can show changes in liver function or blood-cell counts. A veterinarian may recommend ultrasound, a PET-CT scan in selected settings, needle sampling or biopsy, and tests of other organs. Staging describes where lymphoma is found and helps match treatment to the dog’s condition.

Book a prompt appointment with a veterinarian, ideally one experienced in oncology. Record appetite, drinking, vomiting, stool changes, energy and breathing, and take all medicine information to the visit. Treatment often centres on chemotherapy, with immunotherapy, radiotherapy or specialised cellular treatments considered in selected cases. The veterinarian will discuss goals, monitoring, handling of side effects and comfort care. Never give human painkillers unless the veterinary team specifically directs you.

Use an emergency veterinary service for collapse, trouble breathing, repeated vomiting, a very swollen or painful abdomen, pale or yellow gums, uncontrolled bleeding or inability to stand. Contact the veterinarian promptly if the dog stops eating, becomes markedly quieter, develops fever or has a sudden change after treatment. These signs can reflect dehydration, infection, bleeding or liver-related complications and should not wait for a routine review.

Ask whether lymphoma is confined to the liver, which tests are needed for staging, and whether a sample is safe. Ask what treatment goal is being pursued, how response will be monitored, which side effects require an urgent call, and how food, nausea and comfort will be supported.