What Are Lipomas in Dogs?
What are Lipomas in Dogs? It can be alarming to find a lump under your dog’s skin. The good news is that not all lumps are dangerous — in fact, one of the most common types is the lipoma, a benign (non-cancerous) fatty tumour.
Lipomas are:
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Usually soft, round, and movable under the skin.
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Most common in middle-aged and senior dogs.
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Found more often in certain breeds like Labradors, Dobermans, and Weimaraners.
While lipomas are typically harmless, it’s important to understand what they are, when to worry, and how you can support your dog’s health if they develop one.
Are Lipomas Dangerous?
Most lipomas are not dangerous. They’re considered benign growths, meaning they don’t spread or invade other tissues. Many dogs live happily with lipomas for years.
However, there are exceptions:
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Large lipomas can interfere with mobility if they grow in awkward spots (like the armpit or chest).
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Multiple lipomas can become uncomfortable as they increase in size.
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In rare cases, what looks like a lipoma could actually be a malignant tumour (such as a liposarcoma or mast cell tumour).
👉 That’s why every lump should be checked by your vet. They can perform a simple test (fine needle aspiration) to confirm whether it’s a benign lipoma or something that requires treatment.
Check out our blog post on The Best Lipoma Treatment for Dogs!
What Causes Lipomas in Dogs?
The exact cause of lipomas isn’t fully understood, but several factors may play a role:
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Age → Older dogs are more prone to developing fatty lumps.
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Genetics → Some breeds have a higher risk.
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Weight → Overweight dogs seem more likely to develop lipomas.
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Immune function → A weaker immune system may allow abnormal cell growth.
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Toxins & environment → Some researchers believe toxin build-up in fat cells may contribute.
👉 Shop Milo Naturals Turkey Tail Mushroom For Dogs With Lipomas: www.milonaturals.com
How Are Lipomas Treated?
There isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” treatment for lipomas. Options depend on the size, location, and how much the lump affects your dog.
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Monitoring 👀
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Many vets recommend simply keeping an eye on the lipoma if it’s small and not causing problems.
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Regular check-ups to see if it is shrinking, or to ensure it isn’t growing too quickly.
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Surgical Removal 🏥
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If a lipoma grows very large or interferes with movement, surgery may be recommended.
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This is usually a straightforward procedure, but as with any surgery, it comes with risks (especially in older dogs).
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Lifestyle Adjustments 🐾
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Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can sometimes slow lipoma growth.
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Some owners notice improvements when switching to a higher-quality, low-carb diet
- Add supplements like Turkey Tail Mushroom in their diet (more on that later)
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Supporting Dogs With Lipomas Naturally
While lipomas themselves are typically harmless, their presence often makes owners wonder: Is my dog as healthy as they could be?
This is where supportive care comes in. You can’t always prevent lipomas, but you can help your dog by focusing on:
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A balanced diet → Reduce unnecessary carbs and fillers; choose nutrient-dense food.
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Regular exercise → Helps maintain a healthy weight and circulation.
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Immune support → Strong immunity helps the body handle abnormal cell growth.
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Gut health → A well-functioning digestive system aids in detoxification.
Turkey Tail Mushroom: Gentle Support for Dogs With Lumps and Bumps
One of the most researched natural supplements for dogs is Turkey Tail mushroom (Trametes versicolor).
While it doesn’t “cure” lipomas, it does provide important benefits for dogs dealing with lumps and bumps:
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Immune modulation → Turkey Tail’s beta glucans help the immune system function optimally.
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Anti-inflammatory properties → May help reduce the chronic inflammation linked to many health issues.
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Gut support → With probiotics, digestion and nutrient absorption improve.
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Backed by veterinary studies → Clinical trials have shown Turkey Tail supports dogs with serious health challenges, making it one of the most trusted mushrooms in veterinary research, check out one of the studies here: Study
That’s why many owners use Turkey Tail not as a “lipoma treatment,” but as a way to support their dog’s overall health as they age.
👉 Shop Milo Naturals Turkey Tail Mushroom For Dogs With Lipomas: www.milonaturals.com
Our Story: Why Milo Naturals Exists
Our own dog, Milo, developed lumps and bumps alongside low energy and a weak immune system. We were worried, just like you might be now.
After our vet recommended Turkey Tail mushroom, we saw a remarkable transformation in his energy, immunity, and overall wellbeing. That journey inspired us to create Milo Naturals Turkey Tail Mushroom for Dogs — a tasty, dog-friendly supplement that’s 3rd party tested and enhanced with probiotics.
Conclusion
Lipomas in dogs are common and usually harmless, but they can be concerning for dog parents. The key is to have every lump checked by a vet, monitor changes, and focus on your dog’s overall health and vitality.
While there isn’t a natural “cure” for lipomas, supporting your dog’s immune system, weight, and overall wellbeing can make a big difference in how they feel.
For us, Turkey Tail mushroom was the turning point with Milo, giving him the vitality to thrive despite his lumps and bumps. That’s why we share it with other dog parents through Milo Naturals.
👉 Shop Milo Naturals Turkey Tail Mushroom For Dogs With Lipomas: www.milonaturals.com
FAQs About Lipomas in Dogs
Are lipomas cancerous in dogs?
No, most lipomas are benign fatty tumours. But always have lumps checked by a vet to rule out malignant growths.
Do lipomas need to be removed?
Not usually. Removal is only recommended if they grow large, cause discomfort, or restrict movement.
Can lipomas go away on their own?
Lipomas rarely disappear. They often remain the same size or grow slowly over time.
Can supplements help with lipomas?
Supplements like Turkey Tail Mushroom For Dogs can help mitigate lipomas and in some cases shrink them, always consult with your vet.
Which dogs are most prone to lipomas?
Breeds like Labradors, Dobermans, and older dogs in general are more likely to develop lipomas.
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