While cancer can unfortunately strike any breed of dog at any age, there are certain breeds that have higher instances of the disease. Here is a list of dog breeds with higher rates of cancer and what types of cancer seem to be the most prevalent among these breeds.
- Great Danes– With relatively short lifespans, dogs of this breed are prone to bone cancer (osteosarcoma).
- Bernese Mountain Dogs– Also a breed with one of the shortest average lifespans, Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to several forms of cancer. Studies have reported that half of this breed will succumb to cancer.
- Boxers– No other breed has a higher rate of mast cell tumors, which are slow-growing and can occur at any age.
- German Shepherds– Hemangiosarcoma is the most common form of cancer in this breed. Clinical signs are often not apparent until the internal tumor ruptures, causing extensive bleeding and collapse or death.
- Golden Retrievers are prone to lymphoma and osteosarcoma
- Poodles – An estimated 40% of all Standard Poodles will die from some form of cancer.
- Rottweilers– This breed is prone to a variety of cancers, including that of the lymph nodes, bones, soft tissues, bladder, and blood vessels.
- Cocker Spaniels– Cancer is one of the most common causes of death for this breed, affecting as many as 23% of Cocker Spaniels.
- Doberman Pinschers– One of the top five breeds most prone to cancer, a leading cause of death in female Dobermans is mammary cancer.
- Beagles– With 23% of Beagles affected by cancer, lymphoma, osteosarcoma and bladder cancer are the most common types in elderly Beagles.
- Scottish Terriers are prone to bladder cancers
If your veterinarian does find cancer, there are various treatment options for most types of the disease. Some are cured with surgery and others are managed with medications. Once you know which type you’re fighting, the various treatment options can then be discussed with your veterinarian.