Canine Cancer Causes and Prevention

Watch the video recording here.

Key points from the Mar 14, 2025 webinar.

• Cancer is a leading cause of death for dogs: Approximately half of older dogs die from cancer, and it affects various breeds and ages, not just older purebreds.

• Cancer involves uncontrolled cell growth: Cancer cells divide without stopping and do not respond to signals to cease growth, unlike healthy cells that can self-destruct if damaged.

• Old model: Cancer arises out of the accumulation of genetic mutations.

• New model: Cancer has multiple causes:  the newer understanding includes epigenetic changes (affecting gene expression), hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation and gut microbiome dysregulation, and other imbalances that disrupt immune system health.

• Breed dependence of cancer vulnerability: Certain dog breeds have a significantly higher risk for specific cancers, such as Scottish Terriers having an 18 times elevated risk for bladder cancer.

• Early neutering/spaying has hormonal, metabolic and immune effects: Removing sex hormones can alter metabolism and immune function, potentially increasing inflammation, obesity, and insulin resistance.

• Neutering/spaying timing depends on breed size: Research suggests delaying neutering for medium, standard, large, and giant-sized dogs.

• Leaving some breeds intact may lower cancer risk: For Golden Retriever females and Doberman Pinscher males, a University of California, Davis study indicated a potentially lower risk of aggressive cancers like lymphoma if left intact.

• Avoid the carcinogen glyphosate (Roundup): Glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, is a known carcinogen and can be found in water and food..

• Limit aflatoxin exposure from moldy foods: Aflatoxin, produced by mold, can be found in peanut butter and corn-based food, especially if stored in humid conditions for a long time.

• Reduce exposure to air and waterborne chemicals: Benzene, anthracene, and arsenic can be present in air and water, suggesting the benefit of using water and air filters.

• Increase food variety and lightly cook homemade food: Avoid relying solely on one type of food or kibble, and if cooking for your dog, lightly cook the food rather than at very high temperatures to reduce harmful compounds.

• Microplastics and nanoplastics are pervasive environmental contaminants: These tiny plastic particles and the chemical additives leaching from them are endocrine disruptors that cause harm, including inflammation.

• Microplastics linked to health issues in humans: Studies have found microplastics in arterial plaques and brains, correlating with increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and dementia in humans.

• Environmental chemicals correlate with cancer markers in dogs: A study found a link between higher exposure to multiple chemicals like flame retardants, anthracene, and phthalates in dust and cancer markers in dogs.

• Adding vegetables aids detoxification and gut health: Fresh vegetables contain detoxification mechanisms and fiber that can help flush out microplastics, while also boosting the immune system.

• Sulforaphane in broccoli has detoxification properties: This chemical found abundantly in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and broccoli sprouts can help eliminate pollutants from the body.

• A healthy gut microbiome is anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor: A diverse and balanced gut microbiome trains the immune system, has anti-tumor effects, and produces anti-inflammatory short-chain fatty acids.

• Maintaining a lean body weight is crucial for longevity: Overeating is linked to inflammation and aging, and studies show that leaner dogs can live significantly longer.

• Stress management and good sleep support immune health: Chronic stress weakens the immune system and dysregulates the gut microbiome, while good quality sleep in a dark environment is essential for melatonin production.

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Check out other articles and videos

• Curing Hemangiosarcoma: New Calviri Vaccine Study for Canine Patients

• New Hope for Cures: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (including Gilvetmab)

• New Canine Cancer Screening Tests

Questions? Email us at info@ccralliance, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can!

Canine Cancer Alliance is a non-profit organization supporting research for canine cancer cures.

All information on the Canine Cancer Alliance website is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

Always seek guidance from your veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet’s health and medical condition.