Lymphoma in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment

Lymphoma in dogs is one of the most common cancers and, although it may sound alarming, understanding what it is is the first step to detecting it early. This type of cancer affects the lymphatic system. In this article, we explain what lymphoma is, what its most common symptoms are and which treatments are available to improve your dog's quality of life. Keep reading!

Lymphoma in dogs: what it is and types

Lymphoma in dogs is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which forms part of the immune system.

Lymphoma originates in lymphocytes, a type of blood cell involved in defending the body against infections. This type of cancer is very common in dogs, especially in breeds such as the German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Bulldog and Boxer.

As for the types of lymphoma, we can find:

• Multicentric lymphoma: this is the most common type, in which enlarged lymph nodes appear in several areas of the body.• Gastrointestinal lymphoma: it affects the digestive tract.• Mediastinal lymphoma: it appears in the chest, especially in the lymph nodes near the lungs.• Extranodal lymphoma: it can occur in other organs outside the lymph nodes, such as the skin, eyes or kidneys.

Diagnosis and symptoms of lymphoma in dogs

Although lymphoma can present differently depending on the dog, the most common symptoms include:

• Enlarged lymph nodes (they can be felt under the skin).
• Loss of appetite.
• Weight loss.
• Lethargy or excessive tiredness.
• Changes in behaviour.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea (if the digestive tract is affected).

• Breathing difficulties or coughing (if the mediastinum is affected).

As for diagnosis, this is based on clinical observation, blood tests, biopsies of tissue from the lymph nodes or other affected organs, and imaging tests.

Treatments for lymphoma in dogs

There are different treatments available to treat lymphoma in dogs, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other supportive treatments. Here is more about them:

• Chemotherapy: this is the most common and effective treatment for lymphoma in dogs, with a success rate that can extend a dog's life for months or even years.
• Radiotherapy: in some cases, especially if the lymphoma is localised in a specific area, radiotherapy may be recommended.
• Supportive treatments: these include medicines to relieve symptoms and improve your dog's quality of life, such as Oncovet, a supplement with vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and amino acids, formulated to provide nutrients for dogs undergoing cancer treatment. In addition, Oncovet also supports their immune system,strengthens the extracellular matrix and supports liver detoxification.

Other supplements that may also support your pet if they are undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy are Enzivet or Hepa-T-Detox.

Enzivetis a nutritional supplement that provides digestive enzymes to support digestion and help combat symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea or loss of appetite, which are so common in cancer patients.

Meanwhile, Hepa-T-Detox helps support proper liver function and prevents tissue damage, thanks to its antioxidant formula, which works by neutralising the oxidative stress caused by liver detoxification.

Can lymphoma in dogs be cured?

The prognosis varies depending on the type and stage of the lymphoma. Although, with treatment, many dogs can extend both their life and their quality of life, lymphoma can be a serious disease.

If you suspect that your dog may have lymphoma, the best thing to do is consult your regular veterinary surgeon for a proper diagnosis and treatment.