How long can a dog with cancer live? 5 common canine cancer symptoms | A complete guide to diagnosis and treatment

29 January 2026

A dog's cancer diagnosis is a devastating blow to its owner. The owner's biggest concern is:How long can a dog with cancer live? What symptoms should you be alert to? Is treatment very expensive?A compilation5Common types of canine cancer,includeSymptoms, Diagnosis Process, Treatment Options and Cost ReferenceThis will help you make more informed decisions when facing health crises in your pet.

Key Points點

What is canine cancer? A list of common types.
Canine Cancer Diagnosis Process and Examination Items
Treatment methods, costs, and side effects for canine cancer
Canine Cancer FAQ
More related

What is canine cancer? A list of common types.

Canine cancer is a malignant tumor formed by abnormal cell proliferation. It can invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to other organs, having the greatest impact on the health and lifespan of older dogs.Cancer has become one of the most common diseases in older dogs.Purebred dogs and older dogsThe relative risk is higher. The following describes five common types, their symptoms, and life expectancy.

5 common canine cancers (symptoms, lifespan, and key points)

Lymphoma

Key PointsOriginating from the lymphatic system, it is a common cancer, especially in medium to large-sized dogs.
symptomSymptoms include swollen lymph nodes, decreased appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. In the late stages, respiratory distress and severe anemia may occur.
lifeWithout treatment, life expectancy is only a few weeks to months; after chemotherapy, the average lifespan can be extended to 6-12 months.

Breast tumor (Mammary Tumor)

Key PointsIt is more common in unspayed female dogs, with a malignancy rate as high as 50%.
symptomSymptoms include lumps, ulcers, or discharge in the breast. In later stages, it may metastasize to the lungs, causing difficulty breathing.
lifeEarly surgical resection can lead to survival for several years; late-stage treatment has limited effectiveness and shorter survival time.

Mast cell tumor

Key PointsSkin tumors are the most common type of cancer, and their malignancy varies.
symptomSymptoms include skin nodules, redness and swelling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In the late stages, it may affect the liver and spleen, leading to general weakness.
lifeEarly-stage patients can survive for a long time after surgery; however, in later stages, their lifespan is only a few months.

Osteosarcoma

Key PointsIt is more common in large dogs, erodes the bones, and causes severe pain.
symptomSymptoms include lameness, bone swelling, and fractures. In the late stages, the disease metastasizes to the lungs, causing difficulty breathing.
lifeAmputation and chemotherapy result in an average lifespan of about 1 year; without treatment, lifespan is only a few months.

Angiosarcoma

Key PointsOriginating from blood vessels, commonly found in the spleen and heart, it is extremely aggressive.
symptomSymptoms include weakness, abdominal distension, and sudden shock. In the terminal stage, sudden death often results from internal bleeding.
lifeThe average duration of treatment after diagnosis is only 1-3 months; with active treatment, it can be extended to 6 months.

狗患癌症壽命有多久-5種常見狗癌症及診斷-狗腫瘤開刀費用

Canine Cancer Diagnosis Process and Examination Items

According to an Italian study, *BioMed Central Veterinary Research*, 800 to 900 out of every 100,000 dogs will develop cancer, with older dogs and purebreds having a higher risk. If owners suspect their pet is showing signs of cancer, they can use the following methods for diagnosis:

physical examination- Palpate lymph nodes, breast tissue, and skin nodules
Imaging examinationX-ray, ultrasound, CT, or MRI are used to determine the location and metastasis of tumors.
Cytological examination- Confirmation by fine-needle aspiration (FNA) or biopsy.
Blood test- Assess organ function and whether anemia is present.

Dog X-ray Examination Plan

LEAO Animal Medical Center Dogs Health Care Plan Yau Ma Tei

Suitable for dogs 1 year or older

Key Project: X-ray Imaging Diagnosis

Other tests: Veterinary palpation, complete blood count, 17 biochemical indicators

$1,599

Book Now

Amazing Grace Animal Hospital Cardiac Health Checkup Plan (Dog) Ho Man Tin

Suitable for dogs 6 months or older

Key Projects: Pro BNP rapid test for heart disease, X-ray imaging diagnosis

Other items: Veterinary palpation

$1,599

Book Now

Dog ultrasound check-up plan

VetiVa Comprehensive Pet Health Screening Package (Dog) Tsim Sha Tsui

Suitable for older dogs

Rapid test for early-stage SDMA kidney disease | T4 total thyroxine

Ultrasound examination (kidney/bladder/liver) - choose one

General practitioner consultation | Comprehensive blood test | Urine test

$2,888

Book Now

Dog blood test program

HKSEV Comprehensive Checkup Plan (Dog) Crown Prince

Suitable for dogs of all ages and weights

Key Projects: Pro BNP rapid test for heart disease, X-ray imaging diagnosis

Other tests: Veterinary palpation, complete blood count, 24 biochemical indicators.

$1,999

Book Now

Treatment methods, costs, and side effects for canine cancer

Common cancer treatments in Hong Kong for dogs include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy; costs vary greatly depending on tumor type, location, weight, and treatment duration. The following provides reference prices for four main treatments; the final price will be quoted by the hospital.

Surgical resectionGenerally requiredHK$20,000 - $50,000The complexity and length of hospital stay will affect the cost.
ChemotherapyCharged per visit; typically approximately amount missing per visit.HK$2,000 - $5,000Multiple treatments are required.
Radiation therapyThe entire treatment course is approximatelyHK$20,000 - $40,000
Targeted drugsMostly charged on a monthly basis, commonlyHK$8,000 - $20,000moon

Side effects of cancer treatment in dogs can be managed through a high-nutrition diet, regular blood tests, and antiemetic medications, along with immune supplements to alleviate discomfort.The detailed methods are as follows: provide easily digestible food, monitor white blood cell count, and use medications as directed by the veterinarian.

Canine Cancer FAQ

Q1: Is canine cancer curable?

Early detection and surgical removal can lead to long-term control of some cancers, but malignant tumors still carry the risk of recurrence.

Q2: What should I do if my dog has terminal cancer?

In the final stages, the focus is on palliative care and pain management, which may include analgesics, intravenous fluids, and psychological support.

Q3: How to reduce the risk of cancer in dogs?

Early spaying/neutering (for female dogs' mammary glands), maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet, reducing exposure to carcinogenic environments, and regular health checkups (every 6–12 months for older dogs).

Q4: Is chemotherapy very painful?

Chemotherapy doses for dogs are usually lower than those for humans, and most dogs can tolerate them; if discomfort occurs, the veterinarian will adjust the medication and dosage, and side effects can be managed.

Q5: Is anesthesia required for a CT/FNA?

CT scans typically require general anesthesia to ensure image quality; FNA (fiber optic acupuncture) may require sedation or short-acting anesthesia depending on the visual area and the dog's cooperation. Risks are assessed by a veterinarian.