Cancer isn’t just a human disease—it affects our pets, too. In fact, cancer is one of the leading causes of death in older dogs and cats. While any pet can develop cancer, certain breeds are more genetically predisposed. Understanding which breeds are at higher risk, and the importance of early detection, can help pet parents act quickly and potentially save their companions' lives. 

Pet Cancer by the Numbers

  • Dogs: Approximately 1 in 4 dogs will develop cancer at some point in their lives. For dogs over the age of 10, the risk increases to 1 in 2.
  • Cats: Cancer is less common in cats than in dogs, but still significant—about 1 in 5 cats will develop cancer during their lifetime.

The earlier cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment and extended quality of life. 

Dog Breeds with the Highest Cancer Rates

Some breeds are unfortunately more prone to cancer due to their genetic makeup. Here are the top breeds most at risk: 

  1. Golden Retrievers: Up to 60% of Golden Retrievers may develop cancer in their lifetime. Common cancer types include lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma.

  2. Boxers: Prone to mast cell tumors and lymphoma. About 38% of Boxers develop some form of cancer.

  3. Bernese Mountain Dogs: Lifespan of this breed is often cut short due to histiocytic sarcoma and other aggressive cancers. Over 50% will face a cancer diagnosis.

  4. Rottweilers: Have high rates of bone cancer (osteosarcoma).Cancer contributes to an average lifespan of only 8–10 years for this breed.

  5. Scottish Terriers: Particularly prone to bladder cancer (transitional cell carcinoma).

Cat Breeds with Higher Cancer Risk 

While less studied than dogs, some cat breeds also show a higher incidence of cancer: 

  1. Siamese: More prone to adenocarcinomas and mammary tumors. Female Siamese cats are at high risk if not spayed early.

  2. Persians: Increased susceptibility to skin cancers and lymphoma.

  3. Burmese: Associated with a higher risk of diabetes, which may complicate or coincide with certain cancers.

  4. Domestic Shorthairs (DSH): As the most common breed in the U.S., DSHs have a proportional share of cancer cases, particularly lymphoma, often linked to feline leukemia virus (FeLV).

The Importance of Early Detection 

Early detection can make a life-saving difference. Many pet cancers are treatable when caught in the early stages. 

Warning Signs to Watch For

  • Unusual lumps or bumps

  • Persistent sores

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Loss of appetite or energy

  • Difficulty eating or breathing

  • Sudden changes in behavior or bathroom habits

 Cancer Screening and Vet Checkups

  • Routine exams: Annual vet visits (or biannual for senior pets) are essential.

  • Bloodwork and imaging: Helpful in identifying internal cancers early.

  • Breed-specific vigilance: If your dog or cat belongs to a high-risk breed, talk to your vet about cancer screening starting at middle age (around age 6–7).

What You Can Do as a Pet Parent

  1. Know your pet’s risk profile: Be informed about your breed’s specific vulnerabilities.

  2. Commit to regular vet visits: Prevention and early diagnosis save lives. Our Pet Cancer Risk Assessment test creates a personalized score for your pet's likelihood of developing cancer within the next 6-12 months. We encourage all parents of senior pets to make this screening test part of their annual exam to monitor their pet's health. Now through June 2025, a wellness exam plus the cancer screening test is just $249. 

  3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Proper diet, exercise, and weight management play a critical role in reducing cancer risk.

  4. Don't ignore changes: If something seems off, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.