What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Bladder Cancer in Dogs?

The signs of bladder cancer are similar to other conditions.dog image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com

Dogs, like humans, can develop various forms of cancer. In dogs, the bladder is the most likely part of the urinary system to develop cancer, according to Purdue University. But bladder cancer is very rare in dogs, making up as much as only 2 percent of cancer cases. The signs of bladder cancer are similar to the signs of other health issues in dogs, such as kidney stones or urinary tract infections.

Blood in Urine

If you notice your dog's urine has an unusual red tint to it, it is a sign of blood. While it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, it also is a symptom of bladder cancer. If your dog's urine has any amount of blood in it, a checkup with a veterinarian or other pet health specialist should be scheduled immediately.

Just like with humans, pet owners tend to become very familiar with their pet's habits. If you suddenly notice your dog is having trouble urinating to the point it is pushing the urine out with noticeable effort, this can point toward the possibility of bladder cancer. Sometimes dogs will also strain to defecate as well.

Many dog owners take their dog on regular walks, runs or even hikes. If your dog is normally very active but suddenly cannot sustain the same level of activity, this is cause for concern. Dogs that have bladder cancer can't engage in the same level of physical exercise because of the growth of the cancerous tissue. While the sudden decrease in your dog's energy level may not be because of cancer at all, it is best to have your dog examined to rule out any possibilities.