At a Glance
The exact cause of lipomas in dogs is not fully understood, but factors such as age, genetics, weight, metabolism and overall health may contribute to their development. Lipomas are typically benign and slow-growing, but regular monitoring and veterinary evaluation are important to confirm diagnosis, track changes and determine whether treatment is necessary. To naturally support dogs with lipomas, choose Milo Naturals.
What Causes Lipomas in Dogs?
Are you wondering why dogs get lipomas? A lipoma is a slow-growing, fatty tumour that forms beneath the skin. They’re made up of mature fat cells (adipocytes) that clump together in one area.
They usually feel soft and movable under the skin, and they can appear anywhere, but are most common on the chest, belly and legs. Most lipomas are harmless, but some can grow large or develop in awkward spots that restrict movement.
While lipomas themselves aren’t cancerous, their presence is a signal that your dog’s body may be storing toxins or struggling with inflammation and immune regulation.
In this blog, we’ll help you understand exactly what causes lipomas in dogs, so you can find the best ways to support your pet.
What are the Causes of Lipomas in Dogs?
If you’ve been researching why dogs get lipomas, you’ve probably noticed that scientists don’t point to a single cause. Lipomas form due to a combination of factors that affect fat metabolism, detoxification and immune balance.
Here are the most common reasons for dog lipomas:
1. Genetics
Genetics is one of the strongest causes of lipomas in dogs. While any breed can develop these fatty lumps, some breeds appear to have a greater genetic predisposition, suggesting that inherited traits may influence how their bodies store and regulate fat tissue.
Certain breeds that are simply more prone to lipomas include:
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Labrador Retrievers
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Dobermans
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Weimaraners
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Cocker Spaniels
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Dachshunds
If lipomas “run in the family,” your dog may have a genetic predisposition to develop them. Although genetics can’t be changed, understanding your dog's breed-related risk can help you monitor for new lumps and seek veterinary advice early if they appear.
2. Ageing
Lipomas are far more common in middle-aged and senior dogs (typically over 7 years old). As dogs grow older, many natural processes within their bodies begin to slow down, including metabolism, cellular repair and immune function.
These age-related changes can affect the way fat cells behave and how efficiently the body manages inflammation and tissue growth. Over time, this may increase the likelihood of fatty tissue accumulating in certain areas and forming lipomas. While ageing itself doesn’t directly cause lipomas, it creates conditions that make them more likely to develop.
3. Poor Diet or Toxin Buildup
Diet plays an important role in your dog's overall health, including how their body processes and stores fat. Diets that are high in processed ingredients, artificial additives, fillers and low-quality fats may contribute to chronic inflammation and metabolic imbalances over time.
Poor nutrition can cause increased inflammation throughout the body, disrupted fat metabolism, excess weight gain and more stress on the liver and digestive system. Some holistic veterinarians also suggest that because fat tissue can store certain toxins, the body may use fatty deposits as a way of isolating substances it can’t efficiently eliminate.
4. Lack of Exercise
Regular exercise supports many of the body's natural functions, including circulation, metabolism and lymphatic drainage. When dogs are inactive, these systems may become less efficient, potentially contributing to excess fat accumulation and slower waste removal.
Dogs that lead a sedentary lifestyle are more likely to gain weight, and obesity is often what causes lipomas in dogs. Daily exercise tailored to your dog's age and fitness level can help support healthy fat metabolism and overall well-being.
5. Hormonal & Metabolic Imbalances
Hormones regulate many essential processes within the body, including appetite, energy use, fat storage and cell growth. A disrupted hormonal balance can affect these processes, potentially resulting in increased abnormal fat accumulation.
One condition commonly associated with lipomas is hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid disorder that slows metabolism and can contribute to weight gain. Other metabolic disorders may also affect how the body stores and processes fat.
If your dog develops multiple lipomas or experiences other symptoms alongside them, your veterinarian may recommend testing to rule out underlying endocrine or metabolic conditions.
6. Immune System Dysregulation
The immune system plays a critical role in monitoring cellular health, controlling inflammation and supporting normal tissue repair. When your dog’s immune system is under constant stress, from poor diet, vaccines, pollution or infections, it can become compromised or imbalanced.
That imbalance is one of the most overlooked causes of lipomas in dogs. Although lipomas are benign and the exact relationship remains under investigation, supporting immune health through proper nutrition, exercise, stress reduction and regular veterinary care can help promote overall wellness and healthy cellular function in dogs.
This is where giving your dog Turkey Tail mushroom supplements could also help.
Did You Know?
A 2012 University of Pennsylvania study found that dogs given Turkey Tail mushroom extract showed stronger immune function and significantly longer survival times in clinical trials.
While this specific study focused on a severe blood vessel cancer called hemangiosarcoma, it highlighted how the active beta-glucans in Turkey Tail provide profound immune system support and help the body regulate abnormal cell behaviour.
Can Lipomas Be Prevented?
Now that you understand what causes lipomas in dogs, you might be wondering how to prevent them. The truth is that you can’t always stop lipomas from forming, especially if genetics play a role, but you can reduce risk factors and support your dog’s immune system to limit new growths.
Here’s how:
1. Feed a Clean, Nutrient-Dense Diet
A healthy diet is one of the best ways to support your dog's long-term well-being. Highly processed foods that contain excessive fillers, artificial preservatives and low-quality ingredients may contribute to inflammation and weight gain, both of which are common reasons for dog lipomas.
Instead, choose foods rich in high-quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey or fish, along with healthy fats like Omega-3 fatty acids. Adding colourful vegetables can also provide antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and support normal immune function.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Dogs that are overweight are more likely to develop lipomas and other health issues. Excess body fat can place additional strain on the body's systems and may increase the likelihood of fatty deposits forming over time.
Regular exercise, daily walks and active play sessions can help your dog maintain a healthy weight while supporting circulation and metabolism. Even moderate activity can make a positive difference to your dog's overall health.
3. Detox Support
Your dog's body naturally removes waste and unwanted substances through the liver, kidneys and lymphatic system. Keeping these systems functioning well may help support their overall health and metabolic balance.
Many pet owners use natural supplements such as milk thistle, dandelion root and medicinal mushrooms to support these processes. While these supplements aren’t cures for lipomas, they may help promote healthy liver function and assist the body's natural detoxification pathways.
4. Strengthen Immunity With Turkey Tail Mushroom
Turkey Tail mushroom is one of the most popular natural supplements used to support canine immune health. Here’s how it could help fight the causes of lipomas in dogs:
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Immune Modulation: Turkey Tail’s beta-glucans balance immune activity, preventing abnormal cell behaviour.
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Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reduces chronic inflammation that encourages fatty tissue growth.
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Detox & Gut Support: Improves digestion and nutrient absorption, helping the liver function optimally.
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Scientifically Proven: The University of Pennsylvania study on dogs demonstrated clear benefits to immune response and longevity.
Because of these benefits, Turkey Tail is often included as part of a holistic approach to supporting dogs with lipomas. Shop Milo Naturals’ Turkey Tail mushroom powder today.
5. Manage Stress
Stress can affect more than just your dog's behaviour. Long-term stress may contribute to inflammation and hormonal changes that can impact their overall health. Elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol have also been linked to increased fat storage in the body.
Providing a consistent routine, regular exercise, mental enrichment and plenty of opportunities for relaxation can help keep stress levels under control. A calm, balanced lifestyle supports a dog’s physical and emotional well-being, which may contribute to better long-term health.
Are Lipomas Dangerous?
Most lipomas are harmless, but any lump should always be checked by a vet. Your vet can perform a fine-needle aspiration to confirm it’s a benign fatty tumour rather than something more serious (like a mast cell tumour).
Lipomas near joints, under the arms or in the chest cavity can become uncomfortable and may need surgical removal. You could explore the safest and most effective lipoma treatments for dogs.
To Help With Lipomas In Dogs, Choose Milo Naturals
Now you know what causes lipomas in dogs. Lipomas form due to a mix of genetics, age, diet and immune imbalance.
You can’t always prevent them, but you can help your dog’s body stay balanced, strong and less prone to new lumps.
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With a clean, high-quality diet, daily movement, detox, immune support and proven natural supplements like Turkey Tail mushroom, your dog gets the chance to live lump-free and full of vitality.
When our dog Milo started developing lumps and bumps, we were worried. Our vet confirmed they were lipomas, harmless, but a sign that his body needed support.
After starting him on Turkey Tail mushroom, his energy improved, his coat brightened, and new lumps slowed dramatically. That transformation inspired Milo Naturals, so other dogs could experience the same safe, natural results.
Our supplement is made specifically for dogs, not repurposed from human formulas. Here’s what makes it different:
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3rd Party Tested in the UK
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Over 40% Beta Glucans (the most active compounds)
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Added probiotics for gut + immune synergy
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Natural bacon flavouring (so dogs actually enjoy it)
Need help supporting dogs with lumps and bumps? Shop our Turkey Tail mushroom supplement for dogs now.
FAQs
What are lipomas made of?
They’re composed of mature fat cells that clump under the skin.
Can diet cause lipomas?
Poor-quality, processed diets may increase inflammation and toxin buildup, both of which are linked to lipoma formation.
Are lipomas hereditary?
Yes, certain breeds are more genetically predisposed.
Can lipomas shrink naturally?
Some dog owners and vets report size reduction when diet and immune support (through supplements like Turkey Tail) are improved.
Is Turkey Tail safe for dogs with lipomas?
Yes, it’s one of the safest, most studied mushrooms for dogs, shown to support immune health and normal cell growth.