Finding a lump on your dog can be unnerving. Thankfully, if it is a sebaceous cyst, dog parents can rest a bit easier knowing this type of mass, while sometimes annoying or unsightly, is benign. Integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby explains what a sebaceous cyst on a dog looks like, why one might occur, and details the diagnostic and treatment process.
Many of our senior pups are no strangers to lumps and bumps. Sometimes a new growth can appear seemingly overnight. Other masses may be slow growing. Whether you just noticed it or know it has been lurking for awhile, lumps can be concerning. Understandably, you may worry what this bump could mean for your canine companion. But the good news is that not all masses are the cancerous kind!
One of the more common types of growths are skin cysts. A cyst is usually a small, sac-like nodule located on or in the skin. The hollow space within cysts may contain fluid or waxy debris depending on the type of cyst. Many of these cysts, like sebaceous cysts, are noncancerous but can be prone to secondary bacterial infections.
What are sebaceous cysts in dogs?
Cysts often occur inside hair follicles, which are tiny openings that provide a base for hair or fur to attach. Cysts involving follicles also are known as follicular cysts, and there are several variations. Follicular cysts are characterized by their contents (such as keratin) and by the origination of the cells that make up the lining of the cyst. Most cysts come from glandular tissue like sweat glands. However, in the case of sebaceous cysts, they originate from the sebaceous glands (i.e. oil glands) that adjoin the hair follicles.
Compared to other follicular cysts, sebaceous cysts are one of the most common skin growths in dogs. Sebaceous cysts develop when sebaceous glands release an oily secretion called sebum, which then enters a nearby hair follicle. Usually, sebum plays a role in maintaining skin health. But if sebum becomes trapped or the body releases too much sebum, a cyst can form. The picture below shows a sebaceous cyst on a dog.
What causes a sebaceous cyst?
Although the true cause of sebaceous cysts in dogs isn’t completely understood, it is thought that cysts can result from the blockage of a follicle or skin pore. This is because obstructions can lead to the accumulation of dead skin cells and secreted glandular materials inside follicles. The following factors may increase the risk of cyst formation:
- Trauma or injuries to the skin
- UV ray damage from the sunlight
- Inflammation or infection
- Scar tissue accumulation
- Hair follicle inactivity in hairless breeds
What does a sebaceous cyst look like on a dog?
In most cases, a sebaceous cyst is characterized by a small, raised bump that appears on or beneath a dog’s skin. Cysts are usually solitary lesions but it’s possible for dogs to have multiple cysts scattered across their body. The average size of a sebaceous cyst can vary anywhere from one-quarter of an inch to two inches wide. Cysts are often smooth in appearance with a white or bluish color, but they can sometimes have hair coming out of them because of neighboring hair follicles.
Below you’ll see a picture of a sebaceous cyst on a dog. Throughout this article, you’ll see more pictures of sebaceous cysts on dogs to illustrate the variation in what they may look like.
Because sebaceous cysts can rupture, you might not notice they are there until you see bleeding or discharge coming from the site. Sebaceous cysts can excrete discharge that is light grey or white in color. Sometimes, the cyst’s debris can have a cottage-cheese (i.e. caseous) appearance. There usually isn’t a bad smell associated with a ruptured cyst unless it has become infected by bacteria.
Why can sebaceous cysts become a problem?
Sometimes sebaceous cysts can be very “quiet” in nature. This means they are nothing more than a slight blemish on your dog’s skin. However, if the dog scratches the cyst or the groomer accidentally catches it with the clippers, bacteria and yeast on the skin can contaminate the site and cause infection. The area around an infected cyst may be red, inflamed, or have an unpleasant odor. If you notice any of these signs, your dog needs veterinary attention.
Also, as mentioned above, it is possible for sebaceous cysts to burst when the cyst becomes too full or does not have enough room to grow. Immediately after rupturing, you may notice a lot of discharge and/or bleeding from the site. It may also be painful or uncomfortable for your poor pup. You should make an appointment with your vet to address a ruptured or bleeding cyst as soon as you can. This is especially true if your dog is licking or biting the area or you notice signs your dog is in pain.
Where do sebaceous cysts tend to occur?
Sebaceous cysts can appear anywhere on your dog’s body. In very young dogs, sebaceous cysts will usually appear on the top of their heads. For dogs of all ages, the most common locations are the head, neck, chest, and upper limbs. Also, dogs can get a similar type of lump on the margin of their eyelid. These occur when secretions from the meibomian gland, a modified sebaceous gland that produces the oil portion of the tear film, build up and form a cyst. The picture below shows how a sebaceous cyst can occur on a dog’s eyelid margins.
Dogs also can develop sebaceous cysts at pressure points like the elbows. A variety of types of cysts, including sebaceous cysts, may occur on a dog’s paws. This can make walking uncomfortable. Additionally, some dogs may develop a condition called stud tail. It occurs when oily secretions build up from the supracaudal gland. This specialized gland is found at the base of the tail and is composed of sebaceous glands and some sweat glands. While not a true cyst, cases of stud tail do involve over production of sebum and the potential for infection of the gland.
Which dogs tend to get them?
Sebaceous cysts can affect both males and females equally. They tend to affect middle-aged dogs more than other age groups. Some breeds have a genetic predisposition for developing sebaceous cysts. These include:
- Boxers
- Shih Tzus
- Basset Hounds
- Schnauzers
- Yorkshire Terriers
- Doberman Pinschers
Because follicular inactivity can increase the risk of cyst formation, this means hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested and the Xoloitzcuintli (i.e. Mexican Hairless Dog) can develop multiple cysts.
How will my vet diagnose a sebaceous cyst?
It is important to remember that many lumps and bumps can look the same. Most skin cysts will be observed on the surface of the skin, visible to the naked eye. But just because you think it looks like a sebaceous cyst doesn’t always mean that it is a sebaceous cyst.
You should always inform your vet about any new lumps you find. Doing so means your vet can perform additional testing to determine the type of mass. This can put your mind at ease. It can also help prevent a situation where something you think is a sebaceous cyst is actually a cancerous mass that needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
Fine needle aspirate
In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend a fine needle aspiration (FNA) test. For this, the vet will use a needle to perforate the mass and collect the material and/or cells within. FNA testing is useful for a wide variety of skin tumors, such as mast cell tumors, or subcutaneous (i.e. under the skin) tumors, such as lipomas in dogs. However, sometimes in the case of smaller or firm skin cysts (like sebaceous cysts), the aspirate may only yield normal skin cells, inflammatory cells, or cellular debris.
Biopsy
If FNA testing is inconclusive and the vet is concerned the mass could be something dangerous, he or she may recommend a biopsy. This is because biopsies, while more invasive, tend to provide more accurate results. Rather than pulling cells or debris from the mass like an FNA, a biopsy involves removing a small piece of tissue. The vet will then submit the tissue to a pathologist for further analysis.
Since some sebaceous cysts are very small, a cyst biopsy may mean surgically removing the cyst for further evaluation. As an added bonus, if the pathologist confirms the vet removed the entire cyst, the biopsy may be curative!
Dealing with diagnostic surprises
Pathologists may use the more correct term “keratin inclusion cyst,” “follicular cyst,” or “epidermal inclusion cyst” to describe what is commonly known as a sebaceous cyst. This is because true sebaceous cysts (i.e. those filled with sebum only) are relatively rare in veterinary medicine. Instead, the so called “sebaceous cysts” are also filled with keratin, which is the white or chunky part of the contents.
So don’t be surprised or concerned if you were expecting to see “sebaceous cyst” as the diagnosis and see one of these other terms instead. They are, for all practical purposes, the same thing.
Also, keep in mind that different types of lumps and bumps can look very similar. As a result, your dog’s FNA or biopsy may occasionally come back with an unexpected result. Benign tumors like hamartomas and sebaceous adenomas can look like sebaceous cysts but still carry a good prognosis. On the other hand, some cancerous bumps like squamous cell carcinoma may also mimic a sebaceous cyst. But a biopsy will reveal their true identity. No matter the diagnosis, your vet will be there to help you figure out the next steps—even if the plan looks different than you thought it would.
What is the treatment for sebaceous cysts?
Once your vet confirms the new bump is indeed a sebaceous cyst, he or she will go through the treatment options with you. Sometimes, your vet can manage small but inflamed sebaceous cysts with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and topical treatments.
The Canadian Veterinary Journal published a case study entitled Successful control of disseminated follicular cysts in a dog with low dose isotretinoin. In it, veterinarians used oral isotretinoin (a vitamin A derivative) in a dog with numerous cysts. The study showed that the isotretinoin helped resolve the cysts when it was combined with a short course of oral antibiotic. Perhaps this could become a more widely available option at some point.
If you and your vet address the underlying cause for a sebaceous cyst (such as treating an infection, for example), it can sometimes become smaller or even disappear altogether. Also, cysts that develop due to skin injuries or trauma may resolve over time. So some veterinarians might recommend to simply monitor skin cysts for any changes. This is especially the case if the cysts aren’t problematic for you and your canine companion.
If the sebaceous cyst is breaking open, bleeding, becoming infected, or won’t go away, your veterinarian may recommend surgical removal. Sebaceous cyst removal via surgery is the most effective type of treatment. This is especially the case if the cyst has ruptured or has become infected. The cyst can be cut out using an incision or removed via a surgical laser. Most veterinary dermatology specialists are able to remove cysts with a laser. This technique is especially useful if there are multiple cysts, which is common with hairless dog breeds.
Generally, once a cyst is removed, it won’t come back again. However, this doesn’t mean the dog won’t form sebaceous cysts in other areas.
At home treatment for sebaceous cysts on dogs
Treating sebaceous cysts is primarily the job of your veterinarian. Unfortunately, most at-home treatments will not resolve a sebaceous cyst entirely. And there aren’t many treatments that will help to prevent sebaceous cysts from occurring. However, there are some things you can do for your pup in the event of a cyst rupture. Plus, general skin care can make a huge difference in the life of your furry (or hairless) friend.
Resist the urge to squeeze the cyst
Although it may be satisfying to squeeze a pustule or blackhead (a la Dr. Pimple Popper), it is important to avoid manually expressing sebaceous cysts. Not only can this introduce bacteria into the cyst when it ruptures, but it can also cause cyst contents to move deeper into the affected area. In some cases, this can trigger an allergic reaction. This happens when the immune system treats the cyst contents like a new infection or a foreign body.
First-aid for a ruptured cyst
Unfortunately, large sebaceous cysts can unintentionally rupture, releasing their contents. These situations can be very messy because cysts can sometimes bleed. It can also be really scary when you’ve never seen it happen before! This is where having a dog first aid kit comes in handy.
If the cyst is bleeding, you can use sterile gauze or non-stick pads to apply firm but gentle pressure. Sometimes the site will be dirty (for example, if the rupture happened out in the yard). In that case, clean it with warm water and gentle soap. Diluted chlorhexidine or iodine can be great disinfectants. However, avoid using hydrogen peroxide as it is harmful to new, healthy cells.
Consider using a bandage or a loose-fitting shirt (depending on the cyst’s location) as a covering until you can get to your vet. Putting an Elizabethan collar (E collar) on your dog in the meantime can also prevent your pup from licking the site.
Take steps for good skin health
As mentioned, promoting healthy skin is great for all dogs, including those who are prone to sebaceous cysts. And good skin health starts with good nutrition. All dogs should eat a properly balanced diet. If the diet is a home-cooked meal instead of a commercial diet, ensure the recipe has been formulated by a board certified veterinary nutritionist. This is because diets with missing ingredients can lead to skin problems and other disorders.
Sometimes you can purchase (or make) diets created specifically for skin health. They tend to contain extra vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. It also may be a good idea to ask your vet if a fish oil supplement (an excellent source of omega-3s) would be beneficial for your dog.
Additionally, some dogs may have excessively oily skin. This is especially true for hairless dog breeds and for dogs who have a condition called seborrhea oleosa. This is a skin disorder where sebaceous glands release too much sebum. Shampoos and medicated wipes that contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide can remove excess oil. Plus, they can promote healthy skin cells by removing layers of dead cells. Your veterinarian may recommend bathing your dog with a benzoyl peroxide shampoo once a week or every other week.
Be proactive about skin masses
One of the biggest pieces of advice I can give regarding skin tumors is not to take a “wait and see” approach. Yes, sebaceous cysts on dogs are fairly common. But that doesn’t mean that every skin mass that pops up is a sebaceous cyst, even if it looks like one to you. It is much better to make an appointment with your vet now and find out it was just a sebaceous cyst than it is to regret waiting because the mass ended up being something else.
Also, your vet probably only gets to examine your dog once or twice a year. So don’t rely on him or her to be the only way to find new masses. Instead, be proactive with your canine companion’s health. Check his or her skin at least once a week to see if there are any new lumps or bumps. This can be part of your tip-to-tail dog wellness scan.
Make notes about the location of the lump and its initial appearance. Then make an appointment with your veterinarian so he or she can evaluate the mass. This approach will give you the best chances of either catching problems early or feeling confident that the mass isn’t a problem.
Has your dog had sebaceous cysts?
Please share your experience in the comments.
Hi Dr. Buzby! Thanks a ton for you enormously useful content.
My poor boy, 9 year old Shih Tzu, is covered in cysts. They sometimes rupture, but used to heal on their own all right.
A week ago one did burst and ceases to heal. Our vet has started us with intramuscular Ceftriaxone injections , and insists on rinsing the cyst cavity with chlorhexidine and subsequent inserting of Levomekol (chloramphenicol) ointment into the cavity.
Is the latter (rinsing and putting in ointment) is a good idea? It feels like re-traumatizing the site and preventing the cavity to close and heal. What do you think?
Hi Anna,
Thank you for the kind words about the article! The use of chlorhexidine and ointment will not prevent the cyst from healing and on the contrary may improve chances of healing if infection is suspected. I have done something similar for several of my patients in the past. Hoping things will start to improve and your sweet boy can get back to living his best life. Best wishes to you both!
hi my pitbull has developed what looks like a sebaceous cyst on his back what should I do?
Hi Devante,
It would be a good idea to have it evaluated by your vet. They can let you know if it is indeed a cyst or something more serious. Either way, your vet will help you decide how to proceed to ensure your pup remains happy and healthy. Best wishes and good luck!
Our 12 year old German shepherd has had two large sebaceous cysts surgically removed by the vet after they have both ruptured. One on her tail and it was so large that her tail had to be amputated due to too much of tissue needing to be removed. I thought the tail cyst would be the last surgery but now we are 7 months later and 3 more have popped up and ruptured. This has become a fairly expensive routine and I’m curious if there is anything we can do to keep them clean and not infected so that she won’t need surgery for the 3rd time.
Hi Laura,
I understand your concern about these recurring cysts on your senior Shepherd. The best way to try to prevent infection is to keep them clean and dry. Just as the article mentioned, using dilute chlorhexidine at the site can be very helpful. Also, you can talk to your vet about possible preventive measures. There could be a medicated shampoo that if used routinely might help keep the cysts from forming. Does your pup have underlying allergies? A daily over the counter allergy medication could make a difference and your vet can give you the appropriate dosage. I hope you can find the best way to keep your sweet girl healthy and happy. Best wishes and keep up the good work!
Hi there, I have a 9 year old shih Tzu who had a lump (cyst) at the top of his back leg for a couple of years. Never got much bigger however beginning of this year it grew really large then burst, we got it operated on and removed. scar seemed to heal great with no issues. Now another lump jas appeared exactly where the other lump was except bigger this time. Could this be the same thing again? We didn’t get the other one tested for cancer we just removed it and hoped it would be over and done with. Would you suggest getting it tested? He seems happy within himself, eating, playing and loves his walks as usual.
Hi Laura,
I understand your concern about this lump. Since it is in the same spot as the previous mass, I am highly suspicious that it is the same thing and has returned. While it is possible it could be completely unrelated, there is no way to know for sure since the previous mass was not sent out for pathological evaluation. I would recommend having this new lump aspirated prior to removal to try and get an idea of what it could be. Then if surgical removal is recommended, I would also urge you to have it sent out for a pathology review. Hoping you get some answers and make a plan for how to proceed. Praying for a positive outcome.
My pit/lab rescue will be 10yo in September 2023, she has ‘chronic’ cysts. I made the decision in December 2022 to have them all removed (eight); that was the worst recovery & I decided I would never put her through that again! Of course after she recovered she’s had about the same amount pop back up in different places. I’ve had a couple rupture on me with the same white cottage cheese like substance that others described. She’s now developed what seems to be a rash on her head and side, she’s on her 3rd week of steroids. Im at a loss right now, I’m just trying to keep her happy & as comfortable as I can because it’s definitely gotten costly and nothing seems to be helping at this point.
Dear Vanessa,
I am so sorry your senior girl is dealing with these chronic cysts. How are things today? Did the prednisone help resolve the rash? I hope her condition has improved and she is happy and comfortable. Praying for a positive outcome and wishing you both the best.
Hi my 10 yeah old cockapoo has had a lump which the vet said was a cyst for years ..today ive found it burst ? the pus was grey in color but with some white bits that had dried in his fur, there were also some bits that looked firm (almost round in shape) but were soft when squeezed ? these were also greyish in colour , I’m not sure when it burst as he has a long curly coat and only realised when I found his fur matted , I’ve applied some green clay for now and the lump has gone right down ,but should I take him to the vet now or see how it heals ? thanks 😊
Hi Erica,
Sorry to hear that your dog’s cyst ruptured! That can be messy and uncomfortable. By now you will have already made a decision, but in general I would say that it is never a bad idea to check in with the vet if the cyst ruptures and you have any concerns about how it looks. Hope you and your pup are doing well!
I have a 13 year old rescue who has a cyst the vet refuses to remove it due to my dog having a slight heart murmur. Should I get a 2nd opinion?
Hi Tammi,
A heart murmur can be a sign of more serious heart issues. Certain heart problems could make anesthesia too risky or even deadly. With that being said, a second opinion is never a bad idea. When it comes to the health of your beloved pup, you want to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best decision possible.
Tammy, is your vet concerned because he wants to put your dog under full anesthesia? I just spoke to a VCA vet who said that he is required to use full anesthesia for any procedure, but many other vets will do the procedure under local anesthesia which has fewer risks.
I have a 7 yr old rescue pup (best guess Havanese mix)that has issues with hard lumps some small some tiny and are easily expressed and are hard gel sacks. They do not bleed but grow back. They are located on his back, back of neck, shoulder, hips and tail. The most problematic are the 2 on his back. The lumps are sharp almost feel boney.
Vet diagnosed as Atopy – hay fever we breathe it in , dogs land in skin.
Benzoperoxide shampoo weekly
Apoguel . I switched his food to raw freeze dried for past 6 months but that has not changed anything.
Has anyone experIenced this with their pup? I feel badly that I can’t help him.
Please use the comcast email not the gmail.
Thank you
Carole
Hi Carole,
I understand your concern for your senior pup and these worrisome lumps he keeps developing. You are definitely not alone and should find others here in a similar situation. Have you told your vet you are not satisfied with the results this treatment plan is providing? It may be a good time to think about a referral to a veterinary dermatologist. I hope you can find the answers you are looking for and praying your sweet boy will start to improve. Wishing you both the best of luck.
My Giant Schnauzer had a sabacious cyst on back of neck size of large pea. It was there for about 2 years and vet said it was a cyst. Last month while petting him I noticed a bit of gunk in the area. I took a cotton pad soaked in witch hazel and wiped it and put a little pressure on it. The discharge that came out was black like tar with little white specs. I kept doing it for a week and continued to get the tar like substance coming out. No smell or redness just black thick tar. It’s now been a month and it still continues to have a little discharge but not black anymore.
I understand these cysts can drain for quite some time is that normal?
Hi Mary,
I am sorry your Schnauzer is dealing with this nasty cyst. While a chronic draining cyst is common, I am not sure it can be called “normal”. It is possible antibiotics may be needed to get the ruptured cyst to heal. It might even be time to discuss surgical options with your vet. I recommend you call your vet and let them know about this ongoing issue. I am hopeful you will find the best way to get this problem resolved. Best of luck to you and your sweet boy.
My 11 yr old lab-terroir mix female has an extremely large cyst on her belly. Rapid growth. We had it tested but surgery would have been difficult because of the size. Tested and had some abnormal cells. Is there anything we can give her like vitamins and/or antibiotics to possibly reduce the size? She is eating sleeping and wants to play but is limited as hind quarters are becoming weak. Does not seem to be in pain. Any suggestions?
Hi Anne,
I understand your concern for your senior girl and this large cyst on her belly. Unfortunately, without examining her myself, I can’t make specific treatment recommendations. I would ask your vet if any bacteria were seen on the aspirate cytology. If so, then antibiotics may be useful. Depending on what the abnormal cells were, there could be other medical options. This may be a good time to think about scheduling a consultation with a specialist. Your vet should be able to make a referral if you wanted to pursue a consult. I hope you can find the best way to maintain your sweet girl’s quality of life for as long as possible. Wishing you both the best of luck.
Hello Dr. Buzby,
My, almost 16yo, schoodle has had a clear 1/4 bubble under her ear for years but the doctor said not to worry. That was 8 years ago. Whenever she got her rabies shots. the vet would drain the fluid with a needle and then it would fill up again. But since her rabies expired last year, we decided against any more shots. We never leave her alone and we have family watch her when we are away.
Today, I noticed she had blood all over her right side of her head, the side of the cyst. Unfortunately, I cleaned with hydrogen peroxide as I thought it was a cut; it turned out the cyst is now filled with blood and it seems like it was nicked! It stopped bleeding but what is going on?
Hi Carol,
I agree, that sounds concerning! Unfortunately, without seeing your dog myself, I can’t make conclusions about what could be happening. I highly recommend you contact your vet and schedule an exam. They can look at the blood-filled cyst and let you know if testing or surgery is needed. I hope your pup is doing ok and not in any pain. Wishing you the best and hoping for a quick resolution.
My shitzu has a round circle under his chin the size of a nickel. it keeps bleeding on and off and is red, somwtimes has scabs. not sure if I should be worried. Noticed it after I started taking him to the groomers a few months back.
Hi Breonna,
I understand your concern about this strange spot that has developed on your dog’s chin. I do think you should have it checked by your vet. Without examining your pup, myself, I can’t make specific conclusions. But it does make me suspicious of a mass or tumor. There are a few different tumors that can have the characteristics you describe. Some are benign and nothing to worry about while others could be serious and need immediate attention. Your best bet is to have the spot evaluated and then you can find out how to proceed. Hoping you get some good news. Best of luck to you and your sweet boy.
My 17 year old senior dog Moose developed a subcutaneous sebaceous cyst in his groin. The vet took it out surgically and he is fine. I’d like to warn others that I missed it as he is not a belly rub dog and very independent. Lesson learned. Check your dog all over regularly.
Hi Liz,
This is great advice! I am glad the surgery was a success and Moose is doing well. Thank you for sharing!
My dog is a senior rescue, she had this cyst the size of a golf ball on her tail. One day as I was combing her it just popped it!! I gently and lightly squeezed it and it just gushed out brown discharge with cottage cheese like consistency and small tiny pieces of white chunks that were hard but when squeezed it became mush. I was thinking a mix of fat and keratin? But there was absolutely no blood though. But now the ball is a deflated sack, it’s kinda cold to the touch which isn’t surprising to me. I’ve kept it clean with chlorhexidine and bandaged it. Should I take her to the vet to remove the skin?
Hi Jessica,
I know seeing the cyst rupture was probably quite alarming. What you describe sounds very normal for this type of issue. I do think it would be a good idea to have your vet take a look at the wound. It may need some debriding or surgical intervention. How are things today? Hoping all is well and your pup is back to living her best life.
My Charlie is 152 dog.. he had cysts all over his body,,
He has them on his head and face and on his back…
When I touch the ones on his back some oily dirt comes off it…
Is there any way I can send you a photo of this?
Hi Johanna,
I am sorry your bug guy is struggling with these cyst-like lesions. I agree a picture can be a great way to help get a diagnosis, but I think it would be best discussed with your vet. Without examining your dog myself, I can’t give you specific information or recommendations. Talk to your vet about these concerns and together you can come up with a treatment plan.
Hi
I just found your article. Thank you for it!
Our dog, 5.5 years, beagle-Mix has a big mass on his tail and after a punctuation and a cytology the diagnosis is follicle cyst, most likely a trichoepitelioma. Now, sue to the area where it sits ( in the middle of the tail), our vet suggests an amputation. I am not sure, this sounds extreme but I also don’t want to take any risk with a potentially very difficult and potentially dangerous healing phase or infection. Is this a common treatment for a cyst on the tail?
Thank you very much!
Hi Angelika,
I am sorry your pup has developed this large mass on his tail. I understand your concern with possible tail amputation, but this may be the best option for your dog. Even though cytology has shown the mass is likely to be a trichoepithelioma, there is no way to know if it is benign or malignant without sending in the mass for a pathologist to evaluate. If there is even a chance the mass could be malignant, the surgeon will need to take very wide margins when excising the mass. Since your dog’s mass is on the tail, the only way to get wide margins is to amputate the tail. I know this sounds extreme. But you definitely don’t want to leave any cancer behind and allow it to return with a vengeance when it could have been completely resolved the first time. If you still have any hesitation, make sure you discuss your concerns with your vet and get answers to your lingering questions. You need to be comfortable with the decisions you are making for you and your pup. Best wishes and good luck!
Hi!
I have a heeler that has been getting sebaceous cysts for a few years now… they pop up, we go to vet to confirm, she pokes it and it pops then we move on! Every couple of months We go through this cycle…. This summer I was very grateful that I have been so vigilant with checking her often. What I thought was just another simple cyst that the doc would take care of turned out to be a level 2 mast cell tumor on her chest 😭. About A week after her surgery to have it removed one popped up near her hind leg. Previously anytime about popped up I assumed it was a sebaceous cyst. At this point I was really worried it was another mast cell tumor that was spreading! Went into the vet turned out it was just another sebaceous cyst! One month later we have one pop up on our head the other day again I start worrying that we have a tumor this time. Nope… it was Another sebaceous cyst! I didn’t realize dogs could get them so frequently she started getting them when she was Around five and now she’s almost 9 and still gets them every couple of months.
Hi Brittany,
I applaud you for being so vigilant about getting every bump checked! What a blessing that you caught the mast cell tumor while it was small, and it was able to be completely removed. Thank you for sharing your experience with our readers. This is a valuable lesson I wish everyone could learn. Wishing you the best and bless you both.
Dear Dr. Buzby,
I think this is a different issue and I would love to see an article about it if it is. My 15 yr old mixed breed developed a raised hairless area on her elbow. Occasionally it would get a “head” and open with what I thought was pus but now think maybe it was keratin? I know older dogs get these and my vet would not remove it, reason given was due to the high mobility of the area and the propensity of this returning. I know most older dogs get these on their elbows. Please consider an article about them.
Hi Karen,
I am always glad to get recommendations for potential article topics! Thank you for sharing your experience and ideas. I am not exactly sure what condition you are describing in your senior pup. This issue with her elbow, is it a pressure sore? Hygroma? Just in case I thought you might be interested in this article we just published on the 22nd.
Pressure Sores on Dogs: Treatment and Prevention
Best wishes to you and yours!
My greyhound Bambi hadD/has what seemed like a classic sebaceous cyst, about a cm in diameter, it was relatively soft, then it burst and a lot of “cottage cheese” like substance came out. We took her to the vet and vet confirmed it was a sebaceous cyst. It is still there, but now has developed a really hard crust, it is very hard like a pebble. It is still very much of the skin, not attached to anything underneath. Should I worry about this change in consistency?
Hi Dianne,
I understand your concern for Bambi and this worrisome cyst. Since I haven’t examined your dog myself, I can’t make specific conclusions. From what you describe, it sounds like this crust has formed over the open area which is the normal healing process for a ruptured cyst. Just to be safe, it is a good idea to contact your vet and update them on these new events. You may even be able to send them a picture of the cyst for evaluation. I hope your sweet girl is doing well and everything will resolve quickly.
Hi Doctor, thanks for this site. My black lab is approx 12 years old and in the last couple of months or so, he’s developed two raised lumps on his head. One is on the upper right side of his face and the other is in the center of his face, between the eyes. Both are about 1/4″ x 1/4″ and relatively firm and are movable. Their coloring is black and crimson in color, smooth. The vet has said they are subdermal hematomas, but no FNA was done; this was just based on sight. His health is no different than before these lumps developed but I worry it could be cancer. Would you recommend FNA or a biopsy? Can an FNA definitively rule out cancer?
Thanks again for your information, it’s very appreciated.
Hi David,
You were right to be concerned about the recent appearance of these lumps. I am glad you had them examined by your vet and that they don’t seem to be worried about their presence. Since I haven’t personally examined your dog, it is hard to make specific conclusions. Generally, I do think it is wise to do a FNA of new lumps unless the FNA would cause additional issues. It is possible for an aspirate to rule out malignancy, but sometimes all it tells us is what kind of tissue is present. For example: if I aspirate fat cells, then that tells me the lump is probably a lipoma which are usually benign. But if I aspirate spindle cells, then I know I am probably dealing with some type of connective tissue mass which would require a biopsy to be sent for pathological evaluation to determine if it is benign or malignant. These are just two of the many possible scenarios. If having some answers would help ease your mind, then let your vet know you would like an aspirate preformed. I am sure they would be willing to do the aspirate and may not have realized you had any lingering concerns. I hope you receive good news. Best wishes!
my pit has this cyst on her side. not showing any signs of troubles with it but she causes it to bleed. is this a concern?
Hi Tracy,
I am glad you are reaching out about the cyst on your dog’s side. Unfortunately, without examining it myself, I can’t make specific conclusions. Your best bet is to have your vet take a look at it. They can get a sample with a needle and evaluate it under the microscope to see if there is any cause for worry. Wishing you the best of luck!
My 5 year old Lhasa Apso has a few cysts on her back and bum, they have been seen by a vet and confirmed a cyst but nothing further was done.
One burst open we kept it clean and it disappeared, another big one has burst and she won’t stop licking it, no signs of pain but raw.
Hi Adelaide,
I know how messy and frustrating these cysts can be. If your pup won’t stop licking, you may have to use an E. Collar (cone of shame) for a few days to allow the ruptured cyst to heal. Make sure to let your vet know if you have any concerns. Good luck!
My 14 year old Aussie has had a medium lump/bump on her back for a couple years. That has remained the same size about 2” x 3”. The vet said not to worry about it, common on older dogs. Today I noticed it was draining and when I went to clean the area it burst with cottage cheesie stuff and is still draining clear bloody fluid. There is still a large area under her skin that is a lump. Will be taking her to vet but am curious if it could be something more serious. At her age I want to avoid surgery.
Hi Carollemuiex,
I am glad you are planning to have the lump evaluated by your vet. What you are describing sounds like a cyst, but there is a chance something more serious could be found in the deeper tissues under the ruptured area. I understand your concern with surgery. This is a common conversation with owners of senior dogs. Please know that age alone is not a risk factor for anesthesia. If your vet does recommend surgery, I am sure they will perform the necessary testing and lab work prior to the surgical event to make sure your dog is a good anesthesia candidate. Here are links to other articles with more information:
1. Is My Dog Too Old for Surgery?
2. Is My Dog Too Old For Anesthesia?
I hope you receive good news, and this can all be resolved with some medications. Wishing you both the best!
My 14 Year old English spaniel has had many cysts. Some of which have been surgically removed. However, she developed one on her neck behind ear that became quite large and she kept scratching open. I had taken her to the vet, however they wouldn’t do surgery on her due to heart condition. Afraid she wouldn’t make in out of anesthesia. The cyst won’t heal, wide open and I have to continually bathe her to remove drying blood that attaches to her hair. Very smelly. Any suggestions for home as the vet not an option?
Hi Jodi,
I am sorry your spaniel is dealing with such a nasty cyst that doesn’t want to resolve. Unfortunately, I am not aware of any treatments you can do at home other than keeping it clean and dry. Could you have your pup wear an E. collar (cone on her head) for a few days to allow the cyst to try and heal? Make sure your vet is aware of your concerns and that the cyst is staying open and bleeding. They may be able to try an antibiotic or steroid to see if that helps resolve the issue. There may be a medicated topical cream or spray that would offer some benefits. I hope you can find the best way to get your girl comfortable. Best wishes for a speedy and complete recovery.
Hi Jody,
I use a powder called “coat defense” originally was used for horses and is used for dogs and cats too.
I make a paste with it. Just put some in a bowl, and add a drop of water. Rub that on the sore and it will harden and start to help heal. I fully swear by this! Helps with the stink too. I use it in my dogs ears as a dry powder. I hope this helps!
Hi Jenn,
I was not familiar with the product you mentioned so I looked up the Coat Defense website. I verified the ingredients are non-toxic and it does seem like it could help with certain conditions of moist dermatitis. Buyers should be aware that this will help with the symptoms of certain skin conditions but may not resolve the root cause. Also, please be careful with administering powder into a dog’s ears. There is a risk the powder can travel down near the ear drum and become impacted. Should any powder make it into the middle ear this could turn into a big problem. I am glad this product has worked well for you. Thank you for sharing your experience with our readers.
Hello. If my black lab had a C section (May 7th 2022) and was shaved, would that possibly cause the raised cysts on her belly I am seeing? (Shhhh…I squeezed a couple. Greenish-grey discharge). Some are light colored, others darker cysts.
Should she see our vet?
Hi Susan,
What you are describing do not sound like cysts, but rather more like pustules. Since I haven’t examined your dog myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions. This sounds like pyoderma or a skin infection that is showing up like pimples. I do think this needs to be seen by your vet. Antibiotics may be required to help this resolve.
My senior Border Collie had a cyst on his head few months ago , Allof a sudden it went flatish, It came back month ago ,while we were on holiday it enlarged to a big pea size. Now 3 days ago went flat again , no discharge , skin is loose . Should i be getting my Vet see it? Is this normal , that it didnt burst outwardly. He has been under the weather tiday but we were in heat waves on our travels ,,, thank you
Hi Rita,
I understand your concern about this strange cyst on your dog’s head. It sounds very odd, and I am really not sure what to make of it. Since it is changing in size and appearance but has not outwardly ruptured, I do think it would be best to have your vet take a look at it. They may want to aspirate the cyst to make sure it is not infected. Also, some masses/tumors can change in size like this, and it would be good to rule them out as a possibility. I hope your senior guy is feeling well and this strange issue can be resolved quickly.
My 3 1/2 year old Rottweiler mix has a small, pink, cone shaped cyst protruding from his chin. It literally looks like a cone, with the tip of it dried/crusty. It has grown to a 1/4” long in one week, beginning as just a pink spot. Could this be simply a clogged pore or wart? My vet isn’t sure what it is and wants to surgically remove it ($1200), and have it biopsied. Or, she suggested a needle aspirate. Which to do first? Can I try a topical first to see if it’ll dry it up?
Thank you.
Hi Leslie,
I understand your concern for this strange growth that has formed on the chin of your Rottweiler. Since I have not examined him myself, it is hard to form a mental picture of exactly what you are dealing with and therefore difficult to make specific recommendations. In general, I usually like to aspirate things first to get an idea of what sort of tissue is causing the problem. The downside to aspirates is they can be inconclusive and then you would still be faced with the need to have it surgically removed. If the growth is small and your vet is confident about being able to remove it completely, then surgical removal may be the best option. I hope you can find the answers you need to feel comfortable with which ever treatment you choose. Praying for a positive outcome!
I have a four year old schnauzer mix that the vet says has schnauzer bumps that looks like sebaceous cyst. She has sprays, foams and baths as recommended by the vet but they keep coming back. I also changed her diet to a derm complete dog food recommended brand from the vet. She also takes allergy medicine prescribed by the vet. Is there anything else I can do for her to relieve her of these bumps? I read you can dilute alcohol-free iodine to keep the areas clean. Maybe that will help also?
Hi Darlene,
I understand your frustration with these bumps that just won’t stay away. It sounds like you are doing everything you can to keep them at bay and I commend you for trying as many treatments as you have. Unfortunately, this is a genetic issue with Schnauzers, and I am not sure there is a way to completely prevent them. I would not worry with the iodine since you already have a medicated shampoo, spray, and foam. I think you are doing what you can and recommend you keep it up as much as possible. Try not to let it drive you crazy. Best wishes and good luck!
What is the best pet insurance to have for situations like this
Hi Desiree,
I am not sure there is one specific company that is better than another. They each have their own pros and cons. Your best bet is to call different companies and get quotes from each just like you would if you were searching for insurance for yourself. Pay attention to how much your out-of-pocket cost is before they start helping with the bill. Some companies cover wellness services (vaccines and preventive care), and others only help with sick visits.
My 11 yr old poodle has a cyst on his neck. It has been there for sometime now and has not grown, although it did bleed (possible from his collar) and now a scab has formed. This scab is black…my question is “should I wait for it to fall off before bathing him”
Thank you for your advice.
Hi Hayden,
I don’t think you have to worry about the scab being completely healed before bathing your pup. If you have additional concerns or the scab is extremely large it would be a good idea to have your vet take a look at it.
I just bathed my dog and the scab came off….the cyst is still the same size and it has started to bleed when the scab came off. It did not continue to bleed and hopefully will now form a new scab. If I leave it alone do you think it will eventually heal under a new scab? My poodle has no pain…he doesn’t even know it is there. He will be 12 in December and never has a health issue until now. He eats and plays as normal.
I really don’t want to put him through surgery at this time in his life.
Thank you for your advice.
Hi Hayley,
I understand your concern about possible risks associated with surgery. Surgery may not be needed but this issue may be resolved with medication. I still think it would be a good idea for your vet to examine your dog and evaluate the cyst/scab. There is a chance that the cyst could be infected and need an antibiotic, or it might not even be a cyst at all. The only way to know what treatment to pursue is to have the issue diagnosed by your vet. I hope you find the answers you are looking for to make the best choices for you and your pup.
Hi
Our 6 year old cavalier developed a bump on her back about 6 mos ago. Her vet didn’t seem concerned. at her well check.Eventually the bump came to a head and looked like it could burst. Today it did! A lot of serous drainage followed by cottage cheese like exudate. I bathed it with warm water and a pea sz bit of baby shampoo. She has an appointment tomorrow for possible removal..
Hi Sandie,
It sounds like you handled this situation very well. I hope your vet visit was productive and you have a course of action to resolve this cyst issue. Did you have the bump removed? Feel free to leave an update if you get a chance.
My French bulldog has a reoccurring cyst on her head but this time it’s bigger. It’s not bothering her but its bleeding occasionally.
It’s the size of a frozen pea at present. What treatment can I use to get rid and prevent from reoccurring.?
Hi Lisa,
I understand your concern with this recurring cyst on your pup. It does worry me that the cyst is bleeding and has increased in size. Since I haven’t examined your girl myself, it is difficult to make specific conclusions and recommendations. Was the cyst every officially diagnosed by your veterinarian? It might be a good idea to have it rechecked to make sure it isn’t some different type of nodule or mass this time. Surgery may be the only way to completely resolve the issue. I hope you are able to find a treatment that works best for your sweet girl.
My shih tzu had a bump for several years on her back that was biopsied in 2016 and came back normal. In the past week or two it enlarged and then yesterday resembled a blood blister. Overnight it ruptured. Sent a photo to the vet and they advised hydrogen peroxide and then neosporin on the area. I read numerous articles including this one saying to avoid hydrogen peroxide so I just trimmed the area and applied neosporin with a sterile gauze and gloves. We cannot get in for an appointment for several days – apparently they weren’t concerned enough to squeeze us in for an appointment today.. Hope she will be OK. Unfortunately all of my shih tzus have had skin issues.
Hi LC,
It sounds like you have handled this situation well. I know it can be frustrating when an appointment is not readily available and you have to wait for your pup to been seen by your vet. Just know, your vet is trying to make the best decisions about severity of cases. If they think your dog can wait to be seen, then that is good news she is not considered critical. Just make sure the affected area stays clean and dry and if you notice any changes, contact your vet again. I hope her appointment goes well and everything will be ok. Best wishes to you and your girl!
Hey my name is Melissa Lyons I have a 2 year old Chihuahua and I thought my dog had anal glands was wicked swollen and I am guessing after doing what it say to do online now all kind of stuff is coming out and before his anal glands with Wicked big size of in math sec pinball can u PLEASE help me. I can’t lose my dog . I can’t I don’t have much money to take him to the vet right now I just lost my job
Dear Melissa,
I am so sorry you are in such a difficult situation with your chihuahua. Unfortunately, since I haven’t examined him myself, it is difficult to get the full picture of exactly what is happening and make specific recommendations. I understand finances are a concern, but it sounds like the only way to figure out how to help your little guy is to have him evaluated by a veterinarian. It might be a good idea to contact your local humane society or rescue groups in your area to see if they have any financial assistance to offer. I hope your sweet boy is feeling better soon and has a positive outcome. Best wishes.
My poor baby Princess – my 15 1/2 year old shih tzu – has many of them all over her body. One of them is infected, even after taking antibiotics, the infection has gotten worse. Will be calling the vet tomorrow. But I’m concerned that the badly infected one if not treated in time would it cause her blood to become septic?
Hi Naomi,
I understand your concern for Princess and the infected cyst she is dealing with. I hope you were able to talk to you vet and get some good advice. Since I haven’t examined your pup myself, it is difficult to make specific conclusions. In general, I am not usually concerned with skin infections causing sepsis, although the possibility cannot be completely ruled out. I hope you have found a solution for the problem or at least have a treatment plan to follow. Wishing you both the best of luck!
My 15 years old pekinese dog has 5 cysts on his body , it doesn’t seems bothering him ,, but one of the s cyst is ruptured n bleeding, I clean it with warm water n neosporin ointment on it but still little swollen.? Can I go to the pet shop Buy some medicine to help him?
Thank you!
Hi Rose,
If there is a cyst that isn’t healing well, I recommend you have your vet take a look at it. They may need to prescribe an antibiotic which would not be available at a pet shop. I am glad the cysts don’t seem to be bothering your pup. Praying everything heals well!
Our 6 year old boxer has a cyst on the bottom of her paw- it is constantly bleeding and not healing after 2 weeks of antibiotics and anti inflammatory – it is also swollen. Our vet says there really isn’t anything we can do but there has to be something – she can’t stand wearing a boot and pulls it off/ it also looks extremely uncomfortable and I worry about her circulation. We also try to wrap it with tape but she eventually takes that off as well. Any suggestions? I have her on omega 3’s
Hi Theresa,
I understand your concern about the bleeding cyst on your Boxer girl’s paw. It does sound like it could be rather painful when she tries to walk. Since I haven’t examined your dog myself, it is hard to make specific recommendations. It may be a good idea to schedule a consult with a veterinary internal medicine specialist. Boxers are notorious for getting lumps and bumps as they age and are at a higher risk of cancerous masses. A specialist can evaluate the cyst to make sure it is benign and also offer treatment options that may be cost prohibitive in a general practice setting. The cyst may need to be surgically removed if it will not heal with medications alone. I hope you can find the answers you are looking for and help your girl get back to living her best life. Best wishes to you both!
Thanks. Good timing. I think my 15yo schnauzer has a sebaceous cyst on her paw pad. I’ll take her in to double-check with the vet and see what we can do for it. Currently she is wearing a dog-sock but it comes off every day or two even with vet wrap.
Hi Mindy,
I am glad you are planning to have your girl examined by your veterinarian. I hope you receive good news and possibly a plan of action to allow your girl freedom from the sock. Good luck and feel free to update us with any new developments!
My dog has had several last year: one got so big on her lower rear leg so she was chewing on it and then it was bleeding. I had it removed and she wound up with a 6″ incision, it was horrible.
She also had 2 smaller ones I had removed to avoid the same issue, one was on her back along the spine and so I was worried it would get so big like the other one and didn;t want to damage her spine during removal if it got any larger.
.
THIS year she had a few more, and one was on her snout….it was getting larger and larger. I had it removed during her annual dental cleaning and was worried she would be deformed after the procedure but she was fine. Unfortunately the Nationwide INSURANCE co. would not reimburse me. They said it was a pre-existing condition. These were all NEW bumps.
I did NOT have the biopsy done this year cuz it was gonna cost another $600 and I assumed they were the same as the ones last year, all benign…thank GOD! :-)) Still not happy with the ins co. though. Really unhappy with the outcome.
Hi Deb,
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I am sorry for all your troubles with the insurance company but so glad to hear your sweet girl is doing well. Best wishes to you both!
My pitbull has a large bump on his left shoulder its hard and firm when you touch it but it moves around and it dont feel like its connected to anything I really cant afford a vet and Im very scared of what it could be can anyone tell me what it could be
Hi Jodie,
What you are describing sounds more like a mass rather than a cyst, but without examining your pup myself it is difficult to make conclusions. There are many types of tumors that could be in that location. Without an exam and aspirate or biopsy of the lump there is really no way to know if it truly is a mass and whether it is benign or malignant. I highly recommend you have your vet take a look at the lump and go from there. Best wishes!