How to Know If a Dog Has Swollen Glands
Swollen glands, or more precisely enlarged lymph nodes, in dogs can indicate a range of issues—from harmless infections to serious diseases like lymphoma. As a responsible pet owner, it is important to monitor your dog for signs of swollen glands and understand what actions to take.
What Are Lymph Nodes in Dogs?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures found throughout your dog's body. They play a vital role in the immune system, filtering harmful substances and housing white blood cells. When there's an infection or other health issue, these nodes may become swollen.
Common Locations of Swollen Glands in Dogs
You can often spot or feel swollen lymph nodes in these areas:
- Under the jaw: Submandibular lymph nodes
- In front of the shoulders: Prescapular lymph nodes
- Under the armpits: Axillary lymph nodes
- In the groin area: Inguinal lymph nodes
- Behind the knees: Popliteal lymph nodes
Signs That Your Dog May Have Swollen Glands
Here are some things to look out for if you suspect your dog has swollen glands:
- Visible lumps or bumps under the skin in the neck, groin, or leg area
- Lethargy: A noticeable drop in energy levels
- Fever: Warm ears or body and increased body temperature
- Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits
- Discomfort or pain when touched in certain areas
Potential Causes of Swollen Glands
Swollen lymph nodes can be caused by several underlying conditions. The most common include:
- Bacterial or viral infections: A natural immune response to pathogens
- Parasitic infestations: Such as skin mites or tick-borne diseases
- Allergies: Reactions to foods, insect bites, or environmental factors
- Dental problems: Tooth infections can lead to swollen glands near the jaw
- Immune-mediated diseases: Conditions that cause the immune system to attack the dog’s own body
- Cancer: Most often lymphoma, which typically causes multiple swollen lymph nodes
How to Check Your Dog for Swollen Glands
Here’s how you can do a basic check at home:
- Gently run your hands under your dog’s jaw, around the neck, and behind the ears to feel for any swollen lumps.
- Check the armpits, groin, and behind the knees using your fingers to gently palpate the area.
- Observe your dog’s behavior and note any changes in energy, eating or physical discomfort.
If you find any unusual swelling or your dog exhibits worrying symptoms, seek veterinary attention promptly.
When to Visit the Vet
Not all swollen glands mean a serious problem, but it’s best to err on the side of caution. Contact your veterinarian if:
- The swelling lasts more than a few days
- Your dog shows signs of pain, fever, or fatigue
- Lymph nodes in multiple areas are swollen
- The swelling rapidly increases in size
Your vet may perform a physical exam, blood work, fine needle aspiration, or even biopsy to determine the cause.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the root cause of the swollen glands. Here are possible interventions:
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Antiparasitic treatments for infestations
- Immunosuppressive drugs for immune-mediated diseases
- Chemotherapy or other cancer treatments if diagnosed with lymphoma
How to Prevent Swollen Glands
While some causes are unavoidable, you can reduce your dog’s risk by:
- Maintaining good dental hygiene to prevent oral infections
- Keeping vaccinations current to reduce the risk of disease
- Providing regular parasite treatments
- Feeding a balanced diet and ensuring your dog gets regular exercise
- Scheduling regular vet check-ups
Final Thoughts
Swollen glands in dogs are a sign that something more may be happening in their body. Being aware of the symptoms and knowing how to check your pet empowers you to act quickly and ensure their well-being. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian for professional advice and diagnosis.
