Cancer Screenings for Dogs: Understanding Why Early Cancer Detection Matters

Cancer is one of the most common causes of death in dogs, with nearly 50% of dogs over the age of 10 developing some form of the disease.

While a diagnosis can be frightening, advancements in veterinary medicine are creating new paths to early detection, offering hope for more effective treatments and better outcomes.

One such advancement is the availability of non-invasive cancer screening tests for dogs that can help detect the risk of cancer before clinical signs become obvious to pet parents.

What Is a Cancer Screening for Dogs?

Cancer screening tests for dogs are designed to identify the risk or suspicion of cancer by detecting abnormal particles in the bloodstream, such as nucleosomes (sections of DNA wrapped around particular proteins) or cell-free DNA (fragments of DNA circulating freely in the bloodstream, outside of cells).

These tests are non-invasive, often requiring only a small blood sample, and can be performed during a routine wellness exam

However, it is important to understand that these tests do not diagnose cancer. Instead, they signal that cancer may be present, prompting the need for follow-up diagnostics such as X-rays, ultrasounds, biopsies, or more advanced imaging such as CT or an MRI.

Veterinarians may recommend a cancer screening if your dog is considered at higher risk, shows concerning symptoms, or is entering their senior years. Higher risk factors for cancer in dogs can also be related to certain breeds, environments, and lifestyles.

These tests can act as an early warning system, helping veterinarians make more informed decisions about next steps.

What Should You Expect During a Dog Cancer Screening?

Dog cancer screenings are usually performed during a wellness visit, and your veterinarian will draw a small blood sample from your dog.

The sample is then analyzed in a lab using advanced molecular or genomic testing to detect signs that may indicate cancer. Results usually come back from the lab within a few days, or if your vet hospital has an in-house lab, results may be returned within minutes. Either way, this will help your vet determine whether additional testing is needed.

No anesthesia or sedation is required, and the procedure itself is typically painless.

Does My Dog Need to Be Screened for Cancer?

You might wonder whether your dog should be screened for cancer, and the answer may depend on several factors.

Dogs over the age of 7, particularly those considered large or giant breeds, face an increased risk. Additionally, certain breeds including Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Rottweilers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are predisposed to developing cancer.

Common signs of cancer in dogs may include:

• Unexplained weight loss

• Lumps or bumps that grow or change

• Lethargy or loss of appetite

• Difficulty breathing or coughing

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Limping or lameness

If you notice any of these symptoms, or if there is any uncertainty about your dog’s behavior or health, schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.

Why Early Cancer Detection in Dogs Matters

Early detection of cancer in dogs can significantly affect treatment outcomes.

When cancer is caught in its early stages, your veterinarian might be able to intervene with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or alternative therapies while the disease is still localized.

This increases the chances of both successful and more tolerable treatment, and it may help reduce a dog’s pain.

Additionally, early detection allows pet parents to plan financially and emotionally. Cancer treatment can be expensive, and having time to prepare gives families more options and better peace of mind.

Advancements in Dog Cancer Screening Tests

Recent years have seen rapid improvements in veterinary oncology, especially in the area of early cancer detection. Blood-based screening tests are becoming more sophisticated, with some now capable of detecting risks for cancers such as lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma.

While no test can detect every type of cancer, the ability to catch some of the most aggressive and common cancers is a valuable advancement.

Current research and technology are pushing the boundaries of what these screenings can detect. According to a study published in BMC Veterinary Research, cancer screenings in dogs can help identify cancer-associated changes in blood samples with high specificity and sensitivity.

Some at-home early detection test kits are beginning to enter the pet marketplace. However, it is crucial that pet parents rely on tests that have been vetted by licensed veterinarians and supported by peer-reviewed studies. Always consult with a veterinary professional before choosing an at-home product for your dog.

Providing Preventive Care for Your Dog

Preventive care plays a key role in early detection of cancer in dogs. To ensure you’re staying on top of your dog’s wellness, it’s important to:

• Maintain regular wellness checkups (twice a year for senior dogs and annually for others), including appropriate blood and lab tests.

• Discuss breed-specific risks with your veterinarian and other reliable resources such as the American Kennel Club Breed Standard book.

• If you are unsure about the breed of your dog, consider a DNA test to help determine your dog’s breed and their possible health risks.

• Ask your vet about adding a cancer screening to your dog’s annual or semi-annual exam

• Monitor your dog for any behavioral or physical changes

• Consider pet insurance or a savings plan to prepare for future care costs

While not all cancers can be prevented or detected early, incorporating screening tests into a dog’s wellness routine can dramatically shift the odds.

Combined with traditional veterinary care, early screenings empower pet parents and veterinarians alike to take proactive steps in preserving a dog’s quality of life.

Early cancer detection in dogs saves lives, and when it comes to cancer in dogs, knowing sooner can make all the difference.