The short version
Cancer occurs when cells grow out of control. This can happen with the cells of the immune system. The tumor cells do not usually perform normal functions, which leads to immunodeficiencies.
The normal immune system requires a rapid increase in the growth of lymphocytes to fight foreign invaders. On occasion however, this increase in the growth of lymphocytes may be uncontrolled and can lead to the production of mutated cells, which causes a type of cancer called lymphoma. Lymphoma is one of the most common tumors in dogs. Boxers, Basset Hounds, and Rottweilers are predisposed to developing lymphomas, which primarily affect middle-aged and older dogs. Lymphomas can occur in the lymph nodes, spleen, chest, liver, kidneys, digestive tract, blood, skin, and other organs.
For More Information
Also see professional content regarding immune system tumors.
Frequently asked questions
Immune system cancer in dogs?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Cancer occurs when cells grow out of control. This can happen with the cells of the immune system. The tumor cells do not usually perform normal func… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
What type of cancer is most common in dogs?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Cancer occurs when cells grow out of control. This can happen with the cells of the immune system. The tumor cells do not usually perform normal func… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
What kind of tumors do dogs get?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Cancer occurs when cells grow out of control. This can happen with the cells of the immune system. The tumor cells do not usually perform normal func… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.