A basal cell tumor originates inside the basal cell layer of your dog’s skin. Your dog’s skin cells are constantly renewing and being replaced, and it is the basal cell layer that is responsible for creating these new skin cells.

Most basal cell tumors in dogs are benign, and they tend to grow slowly. If your dog has a malignant basal cell tumor, this condition is called a basal cell carcinoma. Unlike with benign basal cell tumors, these malignant tumors are invasive and may spread to local lymph nodes.

A basal cell tumor will appear as a round, raised and hairless bump. These tumors occur most frequently on your dog’s head, neck or shoulders. Basal cell carcinomas will often appear ulcerated or open.

Dogs who are middle-aged or older tend to develop basal cell tumors more frequently than younger dogs. Although any breed or mixed breed may develop a basal cell tumor, certain breeds such as Cocker Spaniels seem to carry a higher risk.

It is not known how or why a basal cell tumor may develop in your dog.

Your vet will likely remove the tumor, if possible, in order to analyze it.

Surgical removal of the tumor is the generally preferred treatment for benign and malignant tumors. Often, electrosurgery (burning off the tumor) or cryosurgery (freezing off the tumor) can be used. Since most basal cell tumors are benign, there is generally no need for your dog to undergo chemotherapy.

It is not known how to prevent the development of a basal cell tumor.

No, you cannot contract a basal cell tumor from your dog.