Cysts are abnormal growths that can appear almost anywhere on a dog’s body. What cysts on dogs look like, how they are diagnosed, and how to treat them depend on the type of cyst. Dr. Debra EldredgeVeterinarian at SeniorTailWaggers and author of “Dog Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook,” And Dr. Chyrle BonkVeterinarian at SeniorTailWaggers, talked to Dogster about the types of cysts in dogs.
Dog has a cyst? Your vet must first diagnose it because the type of cyst affects the treatment needed to remove it and prevent it from coming back. Your vet will look at the contents under a microscope to determine the type of cyst.
Here are 5 types of cysts in dogs, what they look like, and how to treat them:
True cysts on dogs
Bonk explains: “True cysts in dogs are usually found near the eyelids or ears and are a translucent or dark-colored tumor with a layer of discharge. They can be liquid filled or solid and are caused by clogged ducts in the skin, Dr. Eldredge adds.
Dr. Bonk explains: “The vet will remove the actual cyst on your dog by removing the gland and secretory lining to prevent the cyst from coming back.
Pseudocyst in dogs
Pseudocysts in dogs without secretions continue to fill up, even after draining. Dr. Bonk explains that most pseudocysts are caused by trauma – including being injected – or bleeding that leads to tissue death. The tissue dies and the area fills with fluid. Pseudocysts are usually dark in color.
Because it’s not a real cyst, draining and treating the damaged skin often prevents the pseudocyst from coming back.
Sebaceous cysts on dogs
Blocked sebaceous glands in the skin can cause cysts in dogs. “These glands make sebum to keep hair and skin hydrated and healthy,” explains Dr. Bonk. This type of cyst is usually found on the head, legs, chest, and neck. They can be light or dark in color.
Treatment of sebaceous cysts can range from warm compresses and antibiotics to surgical removal of the cyst, including the excretory lining.
Hair cysts on dogs
As the name suggests, hair follicles in dogs occur in hair follicles when they become blocked, usually from trauma or pressure. Dr. Bonk explains that certain breeds of hounds and hairless dogs are more prone to hair follicles.
The scope of treatment for hair cysts in dogs is the same as for sebaceous cysts in dogs.
Skin cysts on dogs
Dr. Eldredge explains skin cysts in dogs are rare and are really only seen in breeds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback. The cysts are formed during the puppy’s development in the womb because the epidermis of the skin has not closed completely and may not be noticed until later in adulthood, Dr. Bonk said.
Due to their nature, skin cysts are complex to treat. Images are sometimes used, and they often require surgery to remove. Bonk adds, skin cysts involving the spinal cord may need a referral to a specialist for removal or tying.
If you see your dog grow, schedule an appointment with the vet, even if you think it’s a pseudocyst. And while cysts are not usually cancerous, having them confirmed by a veterinarian will give you peace of mind as a dog owner.
