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Benign bone tumors in the dog
Last reviewed: 08.07.2025
Osteomas are raised tumors of denser but otherwise normal bone tissue that occur in the skull and face.
Osteochondromas, also called multiple osteochondral exostoses, are bone tumors that occur in young dogs in areas of growing cartilage before it calcifies. Osteochondromas can be single or multiple and are found in the ribs, vertebrae, pelvis, and extremities. These tumors can be hereditary.
If the results of an X-ray examination do not allow a definitive diagnosis to be made, a biopsy must be performed to determine the type of bone tumor.
Treatment: Benign tumors can be removed by local excision. Surgical treatment is necessary when tumor growth affects structures such as nerves and tendons, causing pain and preventing movement. Surgical treatment may also be performed pro forma.
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