What should you know about osteosarcoma in dogs treatment?

Osteosarcoma is a bone tumour that can weaken the affected bone and cause pain or lameness. A veterinary team may use examination and imaging to define the bone involved and assess the chest or other areas before recommending a plan. Surgery may remove the tumour and, when appropriate, the affected limb or a portion of the bone. Read more about [Tumour Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/tumour-removal-surgery/).

Chemotherapy may be offered because tumour cells can travel beyond the original bone even when this is not visible on initial imaging. The team will explain the intended benefit, possible adverse effects, visit schedule and monitoring. See [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/) for an overview of this treatment approach.

Arrange assessment with a veterinarian, particularly if your dog has persistent lameness, swelling, pain, reduced activity or a fracture after minor movement. Keep a record of changes in walking, appetite, sleep and comfort. Until assessed, follow the veterinary team’s advice about exercise; avoid jumping, rough play and stairs if movement seems painful, because a weakened bone may be more vulnerable.

Seek urgent care if your dog suddenly cannot use a limb, cries when moved, develops marked swelling, has trouble breathing, collapses, or appears severely distressed. A sudden change can signal a fracture or another problem that needs prompt examination. Do not give human pain medicines unless a veterinarian specifically prescribes them.

Ask which bone is affected, what imaging is needed, whether a biopsy is recommended, and what the treatment aims are. Ask how surgery would affect movement, how chemotherapy would be monitored, which changes should prompt a call, and how comfort will be supported at home.