Osteosarcoma in dogs

Osteosarcoma is a common concern for dog owners as it ranks among the most prevalent cancers in dogs. Early detection and prompt treatment are important factors in managing the condition. This article provides an overview of osteosarcoma, including its signs, diagnosis, and available treatment options for affected dogs. We hope to provide dog owners with valuable information to help them understand and address this health issue effectively.

What is osteosarcoma in dogs?

Osteosarcoma in dogs is a common type of bone cancer, often diagnosed in larger breeds.  It typically begins with abnormal bone cell growth, commonly occurring in the long bones of the legs, such as those in the front or hind limbs. However, it can also affect other areas like the jaw, hips, or pelvis. In rare cases, it may even appear in non-bony tissues, known as extraskeletal osteosarcoma. 

This cancer disrupts the normal function of bone cells, particularly osteoblasts and osteoclasts responsible for bone remodelling, resulting in uncontrolled growth and behaviour. While osteosarcoma is more frequently diagnosed in larger breeds, it can affect dogs of any size. Timely diagnosis is crucial as osteosarcoma can spread rapidly without intervention

What causes osteosarcoma in dogs?

Understanding why dogs develop osteosarcoma isn't straightforward; it's typically a result of various factors rather than a single cause. While larger breeds are generally more prone, genetics also play a significant role, particularly in certain breeds. Additionally, previous bone injuries, such as fractures or chronic infections, can increase the likelihood of osteosarcoma development. These factors, combined with potential influences like radiation therapy, contribute to the complexity of osteosarcoma's origins in dogs.

What are the signs of dog osteosarcoma?

When it comes to recognizing osteosarcoma in dogs, close observation of their behaviour and physical condition is essential. Typically, if your furry friend is dealing with appendicular osteosarcoma, you might notice signs like limping or swelling in the affected limb. This swelling could lead to reluctance in movement or play due to the discomfort caused by the bone tumour. Additionally, your dog may seem more sluggish and have less interest in food, signalling their distress.

Osteosarcoma often shows up in areas like the front limb, wrist or shoulder (away from the elbow) and back leg (close to the knee). However, these tumours can also pop up in toes, and in the hip. Alongside limping, watch out for signs like limb asymmetry, palpable masses, and swelling in the soft tissue around the limb. If you notice any of these symptoms, along with an elevated heart rate, signs of dehydration, or neurological issues, it's crucial to get in touch with your vet promptly. Early detection is vital because osteosarcoma can affect various parts of your dog's body, including the legs, jaw, ribs, spine, and may even lead to respiratory distress.

How is osteosarcoma diagnosed in dogs?  

In diagnosing osteosarcoma in dogs, veterinarians initially assess clinical symptoms such as limping and swelling, followed by radiographic examination to identify characteristic bone changes. Confirmation typically involves fine needle aspiration or a bone biopsy, supported by additional diagnostics like blood work and advanced imaging to assess the possibility of cancer spreading. Despite thorough evaluation, osteosarcoma often spreads, emphasising the importance of prompt and comprehensive intervention.

What are the available treatments for dogs with osteosarcoma?

For dogs with osteosarcoma, the primary goal revolves around managing the tumour at its source. This usually means opting for surgery to remove the affected limb, a procedure known as amputation. While understandably daunting for many pet owners, dogs typically recover surprisingly well after this surgery, finding relief from the pain associated with the cancer. Not only does amputation help prevent the cancer from spreading, but it also often leads to a significant improvement in the dog's quality of life.

Following surgery, chemotherapy is often recommended to further manage the disease. Unlike humans, dogs tend to tolerate chemotherapy better, with fewer side effects impacting their day-to-day lives. The combination of surgery followed by chemotherapy is commonly recommended due to the aggressive nature of osteosarcoma. However, if surgery isn't an option, alternative treatments like radiation therapy might be considered. Your vet will guide you through the available options, ensuring you're up to speed on the latest developments in cancer treatment for dogs.

Prognosis for dogs with osteosarcoma.

When it comes to dogs battling osteosarcoma, survival rates typically span from 4 months to 1-2 years, depending on the treatments used. Factors like age, weight, and tumour location play a big role in predicting outcomes. While treated pups can often enjoy another 1 - 6 years of life, osteosarcoma's aggressiveness means it can still be fatal despite surgeries and therapies. Consulting your vet is important for an accurate prognosis and crafting a personalised treatment plan to ensure your furry friend enjoys the best quality of life possible.

Management tips for dogs with osteosarcoma.

When managing a dog with osteosarcoma, ensuring their comfort and well-being at home is essential. Make sure they have easy access to food and water in a comfortable location, along with consistent prescription medications. Consider using ramps and safety gates to prevent accidents, and mobility aids like slings or harnesses to assist with movement. Regularly check for pressure sores and monitor their appetite, weight, drinking, urination, and energy level. For end-of-life care, prioritize your dog's safety and comfort, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition and hydration while monitoring for any signs of pain or discomfort.

Evaluate your dog's quality of life with our scoring tool, here 

In a crisis:

Immediately contact your vet if your dog exhibits any signs of discomfort, such as limping, swelling, or persistent lameness, as these could be indicative of osteosarcoma. Early detection and intervention are important in managing this aggressive form of cancer, so prompt veterinary attention is essential for ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet.

It is vital to begin end-of-life care discussions before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life. 

Don’t wait until the very end. It’s important to consider your pet’s end-of-life journey early, so that you, your family and your pet are all supported through the process.

When the time comes, we’re here for you. Goodbye Good Boy provides a range of end-of-life services to make the difficult process of saying goodbye a little easier. 

We offer quality of life assessments from qualified vets, specialist grief counselling, at home euthanasia from dedicated end of life veterinarians, as well as cremation services and memorial options to help remember your pet for their unique character.

We are with you at every step of the journey.

To find out more, you can call our team of passionate pet lovers on 1800 953 619.