CONDITION
Lipomas
Why this matters now
Lipomas typically develop in middle-aged to older dogs, often becoming more numerous with age. They grow slowly over months to years and may go unnoticed until they reach a certain size. Some dogs develop multiple lipomas throughout their lifetime.
These fatty tumours generally grow slowly and remain soft and mobile. Most maintain a benign character indefinitely. Occasionally, lipomas may reach sizes that affect mobility or comfort depending on their location. Regular monitoring helps distinguish stable lipomas from other masses that may behave differently.
Signals & patterns
Early signals
Small, soft lump under the skin
Often discovered during grooming or petting as a movable, doughy swelling beneath the skin.
Symmetrical, rounded shape
Lipomas typically have smooth, regular contours and feel uniform throughout.
Lump moves freely when manipulated
Unlike some other masses, lipomas are usually not attached to underlying tissues and slide easily under the skin.
No pain on palpation
Dogs typically show no discomfort when the area is touched or gently squeezed.
Later signals
Gradual increase in size
Over months or years, the mass may slowly enlarge, though growth rate varies considerably.
Multiple similar lumps appearing
Dogs prone to lipomas often develop additional masses in various locations.
Large masses affecting movement
Lipomas in certain locations, such as armpits or between legs, may eventually impede normal gait if they grow substantially.
Click to read about the biological mechanisms
How this is usually investigated
Investigation aims to confirm the benign nature of a mass and distinguish lipomas from other tumour types. Various approaches offer different levels of certainty.
Physical examination
Fine needle aspirate
Imaging
Surgical biopsy or excision
Options & trade-offs
Management depends on the lipoma's size, location, and whether it causes any problems. Various approaches may suit different situations.
Monitoring without intervention
Regular observation and measurement of stable, confirmed lipomas.
Trade-offs: Appropriate for small, non-problematic masses. Requires periodic reassessment to detect any changes in character or growth rate.
Surgical removal
Excision of the lipoma and surrounding capsule.
Trade-offs: Provides definitive removal and histopathological confirmation. Involves anaesthesia and surgical risks. Earlier removal of smaller masses is generally simpler than waiting until they grow larger.
Liposuction or debulking
Reducing the mass size through aspiration techniques.
Trade-offs: Less invasive than full excision but may not completely remove the lipoma. Regrowth is possible as residual tissue remains.
Mapping and documentation
Systematic recording of mass locations and sizes over time.
Trade-offs: Essential for monitoring dogs with multiple lipomas. Helps identify new masses or changes requiring investigation.
Common misconceptions
"All lumps on older dogs are probably harmless lipomas"
Many different tumour types occur in dogs, some requiring prompt attention. Any new mass warrants veterinary assessment to determine its nature.
"Lipomas will go away if the dog loses weight"
Lipomas are tumours, not simply areas of excess body fat. Weight loss does not resolve them, though it may make them more apparent.
"Small lipomas never need attention"
Whilst many lipomas remain innocuous, confirming the diagnosis is valuable. Small masses are also generally easier to remove if removal becomes warranted.
Maintaining a simple record of lump locations and approximate sizes can help track any changes over time. Noting whether lumps remain soft and mobile, or develop any different characteristics, provides useful information for veterinary discussions. Owners might consider whether a mass is growing, changing in texture, or beginning to affect the dog's comfort or movement.
Last reviewed: 24 April 2026 · Dr Alastair Greenway MRCVS