Prostate Cancer Symptoms in Dogs

Behind the bladder, in between the pelvis and below the rectum lies the prostate gland in dogs. The main function of the prostate gland is to supply fluid that will help in the transportation of the sperms. Prostate problems start developing, as the age advances. As the dogs become old, they suffer from various prostate problems. In most cases, the actual cause of prostate cancer cannot be detected. But, prostate cancer is mostly observed in unaltered male dogs than neutered male dogs. Prostate cancer is observed rarely but, it is a matter of concern, as it is difficult to detect and if left untreated, it can cause be fatal for your dog. Let's find out about prostate cancer symptoms in dogs.

There are many types of canine prostate cancer symptoms, carcinoma being the most common type. This type of dog cancer is extremely dangerous and it can spread to the lymph nodes, lungs and bones very rapidly and easily. In most of the cases, by the time the cancer is diagnosed, it has reached the advanced stage.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
Straining while urination, and urinating very often, are the first indications of this dog illness. Presence of blood in the urine is, also, a symptom of prostate cancer, along with fever and lethargy. Other than these, the dog might also suffer from other urinary tract infections. Along with all this, constipation and straining to defecate is also a prostate cancer sign and symptom. Leaking of pus or blood from the penis is a strong indication that your dog is suffering from prostate cancer. You might also observe open sores in your dogs, that do not heal easily.

Change in the dog behavior can be observed. If the dog experiences problems while walking, and if he takes small and short steps with stiff rear legs, then you can be sure that your dog might be suffering from prostate cancer. Your dog's eating habits will change and he will lose interest in eating food which will lead to reduction in weight. Prostate cancer will also give rise to swelling in the abdomen of the dog. Persistent stiffness and lameness are also prostate cancer symptoms in dogs. You might also observe an enlarged prostate. More on: enlarged prostate in dogs.

Treatment for Prostate Cancer in Dogs
Not much can be done for treating prostate cancer in dogs. Castration can decrease the risk of development of prostate cancer. Hence, it can be opted to keep your dog away from prostate cancer. Another treatment is chemotherapy. Radiation may also help to some extent, for treating prostate cancer in dogs. It can be done to shrink the prostate of the dog. However, it is not effective every time and can cause discomfort in dogs. Most of the times, dogs suffering from prostate cancer also experience an obstruction in the urethra. In such cases, in order to drain the urine, a tube can be put into the bladder of the dog from the side. Some people also opt for homeopathic medicines, and these may prove to be effective. Although, these medicines are ineffective in destroying the tumors, they definitely strengthen the immune system. More on: cancer symptoms in dogs.

If you observe prostate cancer symptoms in dog, then get it treated immediately, as it can be fatal. Moreover, care should be taken to keep the dog away from this disease. Taking the dog for regular medical checkups to the veterinarian, feeding him with healthy food and making him exercise regularly might help to a great extent as preventive measures against this dog health problem.