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Endometrial Carcinoma (Uterine Cancer) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Endometrial carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer., also known as uterine cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas., is a malignantMalignant means "cancerous" and is used to describe tumors or neoplasms that grow invasively and have the ability to metastasize. Malignant tumors can cause serious health problems in dogs and cats. tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. disease that originates from the lining of the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. (endometrium) in dogs. It is a rare disease, but when it occurs, it can have serious health consequences for the affected animals.

The most important facts at a glance

Endometrial Carcinoma in dogs is a cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. that affects the inner lining of the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. and is favored by hormonal influences such as an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. of estrogenEstrogen is a group of steroid hormones that are primarily responsible in female animals for regulating the reproductive system and developing female characteristics. In dogs and cats, estrogens play an important role in the estrous cycle. and progesterone. Genetic and environmental factors may also play a role. Symptoms include vaginalVaginal refers to anything related to the vagina, the muscular tube that connects the external genitalia in female mammals to the uterus. discharge, Infertility, loss of appetite, and Weight loss. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through clinical examinations and imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow.. A biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. is often necessary to confirm cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. cells.

Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane., while advanced cases may also require chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells. or radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue.. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the stage of the disease; early removal improves the outlook. Preventive measures such as spaying can reduce the risk as they eliminate hormonal cycles. Regular veterinary examinations are important to detect health problems early.

Research is underway to better understand the causes and improve diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. Genetic studies and the search for biomarkers are promising. New therapeutic approaches and drugs are also being developed to improve the quality of life of dogs. The research aims to significantly improve the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment options in the future.

Causes

In dogs, the endometrium is the inner layer of the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane., which plays a crucial role in the reproductive system. The cells of the endometrium are hormonally active and respond to the cyclical changes in hormoneHormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands and released into the bloodstream to affect specific cells or organs in the body. They regulate numerous bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. levels that occur during the reproductive cycle. These hormonal fluctuations can lead to cell proliferation, which is normally regulated. However, in some dogs, errors can occur in this process, which can lead to the development of Tumors.

The exact cause of Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in dogs is not fully understood. However, it is believed that hormonal influences play a significant role. Similar to humans, an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. of estrogenEstrogen is a group of steroid hormones that are primarily responsible in female animals for regulating the reproductive system and developing female characteristics. In dogs and cats, estrogens play an important role in the estrous cycle. and progesterone can increase the risk of developing Tumors in the endometrium. Some studies suggest that dogs that are not spayed and are therefore exposed to cyclical hormonal influences may be at higher risk.

Genetic factors may also play a role. Certain breeds may be more susceptible to developing this type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. due to genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases.. Other factors such as environmental toxins, diet, and pre-existing conditions of the reproductive tract may also increase the risk, but are less well researched.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in dogs can vary and are often non-specific, which can make diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. difficult. A common sign is vaginal discharge, which may be bloody or purulentPurulent refers to pus or the production of pus, which may indicate a bacterial infection. Purulent inflammatory conditions are often painful and may have significant swelling and redness.. However, this symptom can also occur with other diseases of the reproductive tract.

Other symptoms may include AbdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain or discomfort, Weight loss, loss of appetite, and general lethargy. In advanced stages, there may also be noticeable Swelling of the abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen., caused by enlargement of the uterus or fluid accumulation.

Because these symptoms can also occur with other diseases, it is important that affected dogs be examined by a veterinarian to make an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in dogs requires a thorough clinical examination combined with various diagnostic tests. The veterinarian will first take a complete historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and perform a physical examination to identify obvious signs of the disease.

Imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. and X-rays are crucial to assess the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. and detect possible Tumors or enlargements. An ultrasound can help visualize the structure and thickness of the endometrium and identify abnormalities.

However, a definitive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. often requires a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. of the endometrium. This can be done by surgical removal or a less invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. method such as an endoscopic examination. The tissue samples obtained are then examined histopathologically to confirm the presence of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. cells.

Therapy

The treatment of Endometrial Carcinoma in dogs depends on the severity and stage of the disease. In many cases, surgical intervention is necessary to remove the affected uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane.. This operation, known as ovariohysterectomyAn ovariohysterectomy is a surgical procedure in which the ovaries and uterus are removed. It is a standard procedure for castration / neutering female animals, especially dogs and cats. An ovariohysterectomy not only prevents unwanted reproduction, but also prevents certain diseases of the female reproductive organs., involves the removal of the ovaries and uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. and is often the preferred treatment method.

For dogs in advanced stages or those in whom the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. has metastasized, adjunctive treatments such as chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells. or radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue. may be considered. However, the effectiveness of these treatments in dogs is limited, and they are mostly used to relieve symptoms and prolong survival time.

Close follow-up care is crucial to monitor the response to treatment and detect possible relapses early. The veterinarian will order regular check-ups and closely monitor the dog’s health.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and the treatment chosen. In the early stages, complete surgical removal of the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. can offer a good prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop., especially if the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. has not yet metastasized.

In advanced stages or when the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. has spread to other organs, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is often worse. Life expectancy can be significantly shortened in such cases, although treatment can help improve the dog’s quality of life and relieve symptoms.

Regular follow-up examinations are crucial to monitor the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease and make adjustments to the treatment if necessary.

Prevention

Since the exact causes of Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in dogs are not fully understood, there is no guaranteed method to prevent this disease. However, some measures can help reduce the risk.

Spaying female dogs can significantly reduce the risk of uterine cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas., as it eliminates the hormonal cycles that can contribute to tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. formation. This measure is especially important in dogs that are not intended for breeding.

A healthy diet and a healthy living environment can also help reduce the overall risk of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas.. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to detect and treat health problems early.

Further research is needed to better understand the exact causes and risk factors for Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in dogs and to develop more effective preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies.

Outlook on current research

Research on Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in dogs is still in a relatively early stage compared to research on other types of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. in pets. Nevertheless, there is progress, especially in the area of diagnostic procedures and the genetic basis of the disease. Researchers are working to identify specific biomarkers that can help detect Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. early. These biomarkers could provide clues at the molecular level about the presence of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. cells before they become clinically visible.

Another area of current research is the investigation of genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. in different dog breeds. There is evidence that certain breeds may be more susceptible to Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer.. Identifying genetic factors that increase the risk could allow veterinarians to recommend preventive measures or intensify monitoring in at-risk dogs.

Therapeutic approaches are also being intensively researched. Currently, various treatment methods such as surgery, chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells., and radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue. are being investigated. The combination of these methods could potentially improve the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop.. In addition, new drugs are being developed that specifically target the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. cells without damaging healthy tissue. These targeted therapies could enable personalized treatment for affected dogs in the future.

Another important aspect of research is improving the quality of life of dogs suffering from Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer.. Studies are investigating how pain management and supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. therapies can be optimized to ensure the well-being of the animals. The role of nutrition and general health is also being investigated in this context.

In conclusion, research on Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in dogs is on a promising path. By combining genetic research, innovative treatment methods, and a better understanding of the disease, scientists hope to significantly improve diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment in the years to come.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in dogs? Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. is a malignantMalignant means "cancerous" and is used to describe tumors or neoplasms that grow invasively and have the ability to metastasize. Malignant tumors can cause serious health problems in dogs and cats. type of tumor that originates in the lining of the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. in dogs. It is a rare but serious form of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. that mostly affects older, non-spayed female dogs.
What symptoms occur with Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer.? Symptoms may include vaginalVaginal refers to anything related to the vagina, the muscular tube that connects the external genitalia in female mammals to the uterus. Bleeding, discharge, AbdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, frequent urination, and loss of appetite. In advanced cases, Weight loss and general weakness may also occur.
How is the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. made? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Endometrial Carcinoma is usually made through a combination of ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. examinations, X-rays, and possibly a biopsy, in which tissue samples are taken for microscopic examination.
What treatment options are there? The treatment depends on the severity of the disease. Surgical removal of the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. is often considered. In some cases, chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells. and radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue. may also be used to further combat the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. cells.
Can Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. be prevented in dogs? One of the most effective measures to prevent Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. is spaying, as this reduces the risk of uterine diseases overall. Regular veterinary examinations can also help detect the disease early.
Which dog breeds are particularly at risk? While any dog breed can be affected, there is evidence that certain breeds, especially larger dog breeds and those with a genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases., may be at higher risk for developing Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer..
What is the life expectancy of a dog with Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer.? The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on various factors, including the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease and the treatment methods chosen. In early stages, removal of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. can significantly extend lifespan, while the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is less favorable in advanced cases.
What does the treatment of Endometrial CarcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. cost? The costs can vary considerably, depending on the complexity of the treatment and the follow-up care required. A veterinarian who knows the specific case of the dog should be consulted for an accurate cost estimate.
Are alternative therapies an option? Some pet owners consider alternative or complementary therapies, such as herbal remedies or acupuncture, to improve their dog’s well-being. However, it is important to discuss such options with a veterinarian to ensure that they are compatible with conventional treatment.
How can I help my dog during treatment? In addition to medical treatment, it is important to provide a stress-free environment and monitor the dog well. A balanced diet, regular moderate exercise, and plenty of attention can also help improve the dog’s quality of life.