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Meningioma (Tumor of the Meninges, Brain Coverings) in Dogs

Occurrence: rarer
Location of illness: Head/Neck

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

A meningioma is a mostly benignBenign refers to a non-invasive, non-serious condition that is not life-threatening. In medicine, the term is often used to describe benign tumors that do not metastasize, meaning they do not form secondary tumors. 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. that originates from the meninges (brain coverings), the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body.. In dogs, it is one of the most common types of brain tumors.

The most important facts at a glance

Meningiomas are tumors that arise from the cells of the arachnoid layer of the brain coverings in dogs. These tumors are often benignBenign refers to a non-invasive, non-serious condition that is not life-threatening. In medicine, the term is often used to describe benign tumors that do not metastasize, meaning they do not form secondary tumors. but can put pressure on the brain or spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body., leading to neurological symptoms such as seizures, behavioral changes, and movement disorders. The exact causes are unclear, but genetic factors and age may play a role, with certain breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Boxers, and German Shepherds at higher risk. 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 by clinical examination and imaging techniques such as MRI or CT. In some cases, 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. may be necessary. Treatment depends on the location and size 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. and often includes surgical removal, 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., or medication to relieve symptoms. 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. varies depending on the possibility of complete 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. removal and the response to other therapies. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is difficult as the causes are not fully understood. Research focuses on genetic factors, improved diagnostic methods, and new treatment options, including immunotherapy. These advances could improve treatment outcomes in the long term and may also be relevant for treatment in humans.

Causes

The meninges consist of three layers: the dura mater, the arachnoid, and the pia mater. These layers envelop the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. and provide protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment. and structural support. Meningiomas typically arise from the cells of the arachnoid layer, one of the middle membranes. These tumors are usually benignBenign refers to a non-invasive, non-serious condition that is not life-threatening. In medicine, the term is often used to describe benign tumors that do not metastasize, meaning they do not form secondary tumors. but, due to their location and potential growth, can exert pressure on the brain or spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body., leading to neurological symptoms.

The exact causes of meningiomas in dogs are not fully understood. It is believed that genetic factors may play a role in the development of these tumors. Certain breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Boxers, and German Shepherds appear to have an increased risk, which may indicate 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..

Radiation and environmental factors have also been investigated as possible risk factors, but there is currently no conclusive evidence directly linking these factors to the development of meningiomas. Some studies suggest that older dogs are more likely to be affected, suggesting that age may also play a role.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

The symptoms of a meningioma in dogs can vary depending on the location, size, and growth rate 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.. Common signs include behavioral changes, such as increased aggression or apathyApathy refers to a state of indifference and reduced interest or lack of emotional involvement in activities or events that would normally arouse interest., as well as neurological symptoms such as seizures that occur in previously healthy dogs. Coordination disorders, tremors, or limb weakness may also be observed.

Other symptoms may include head shaking, balance disorders, and a change in vision. In some cases, vomiting or loss of appetite may occur, especially if 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. affects intracranialIntracranial refers to anything located within the skull. Intracranial conditions in dogs and cats include Tumors, infections, and cerebral edema, which can cause neurological symptoms. pressure. Because the symptoms can be non-specific, 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. is important to rule out other neurological disorders.

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 a meningioma usually begins with a thorough clinical examination, including a neurological evaluation. The veterinarian will take the dog’s medical history and ask about specific symptoms. A blood testA blood test is a laboratory procedure in which blood is drawn and analyzed to obtain information about the body's health. It can include various parameters such as blood sugar, blood count, liver and kidney values. may be performed to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms.

Imaging procedures are crucial for 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 meningiomas. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. or computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. of the brain can help locate 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. and determine its size. These procedures provide detailed images of the brain and allow the veterinarian to distinguish 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. from other possible causes of the symptoms.

In some cases, 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. may be necessary to make 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.. This involves taking a tissue sample 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. and examining it under a microscope to determine the type of 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.. However, this can be a risky procedure due to the location 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..

Therapy

The treatment of meningiomas in dogs depends on various factors, including the location and size 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., as well as the dog’s general health. One of the most common treatment options is surgical 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., especially if it is easily accessible. However, surgery can be challenging and risky depending on the location 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..

If complete removal is not possible, partial resection may be considered in combination with other therapies such as 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.. 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. has proven effective in treating meningiomas, especially when 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. cannot be completely removed or when it recurs after surgery.

Medication can also be used to relieve symptoms and slow the growth 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.. Medications such as corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions. are often used to reduce inflammation and lower intracranialIntracranial refers to anything located within the skull. Intracranial conditions in dogs and cats include Tumors, infections, and cerebral edema, which can cause neurological symptoms. pressure. AnticonvulsantsAnticonvulsants, also called antiepileptic drugs, are medications used to control or prevent seizures. They are used in dogs and cats with epilepsy or other conditions that cause seizures. may be prescribed to control seizures.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with meningiomas varies considerably and depends on several factors, including the possibility of complete surgical removal and the response to additional treatments such as 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.. Dogs in whom complete 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. is possible generally have a better 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..

However, even with successful treatment, meningiomas can recur. Follow-up care includes regular check-ups and possibly further imaging to watch for 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. recurrence. The prognosis can also be influenced by the dog’s general health and age.

Although meningiomas are benignBenign refers to a non-invasive, non-serious condition that is not life-threatening. In medicine, the term is often used to describe benign tumors that do not metastasize, meaning they do not form secondary tumors. in most cases, their location in the brain can cause life-threatening complications, making early 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 crucial to improving the dog’s quality of life.

Prevention

Since the exact causes of meningiomas in dogs are not yet fully understood, there are no specific measures to prevent these tumors. However, general health monitoring and regular veterinary check-ups can help detect signs of neurological problems early.

A healthy diet and regular exercise can help promote the dog’s overall health. Minimizing environmental factors that may be associated with 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. growth could also be helpful, although further research is needed.

For dogs 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., genetic counseling may be useful to understand the risk of developing meningiomas. However, this is an area that still needs further research.

Outlook on current research

Current research on meningiomas in dogs focuses on various aspects, including improving diagnostic methods, developing new treatment options, and understanding the biological basis of 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. Scientists are striving to decipher the genetic and molecular mechanisms that lead to the development of meningiomas. These findings could lead to improved therapies specifically tailored to the individual genetic profiles of the tumors.

A promising area of research is the investigation of the role of gene mutations in the development of meningiomas. Studies have shown that certain genetic changes can promote 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. growth. Researchers are using modern techniques such as genome sequencing to identify specific mutations that are common in affected dogs. This information could be used in the future to develop targeted therapies that target these genetic vulnerabilities.

Another important area of research is imaging technology. Advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. and other imaging techniques have significantly improved 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 meningiomas. Researchers are working to further refine these technologies to enable even more accurate detection and characterization of tumors. This is crucial to determining the best treatment strategy for each individual case.

The development of new therapeutic approaches is also a focus of research. Traditionally, meningiomas have been surgically removed, but this is not always possible or safe. Therefore, alternative treatment approaches are being investigated, including 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. and the use of drugs that inhibit 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. growth. Various drugs are being tested in clinical trials to evaluate their effectiveness and safety in the treatment of meningiomas.

A promising approach is immunotherapy, in which the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. is stimulated to fight 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. itself. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies have shown that immunotherapies can be successful in 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., and researchers are now investigating whether these could also be effective in meningiomas. This type of therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. could be a promising alternative or complement to existing treatments.

In summary, research on meningiomas in dogs is dynamic and multifaceted. The combination of genetic studies, imaging diagnostics, and the development of new therapeutic approaches has the potential to significantly improve treatment outcomes for affected dogs. The hope is that these advances can ultimately be transferred to the treatment of meningiomas in humans as well.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is a meningioma? A meningioma is a 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. that originates from the meninges, the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body.. In dogs, it is one of the most common types of brain tumors.
How is a meningioma diagnosed in dogs? 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. is usually made by imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. or computed tomography (CT). These make it possible to locate 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. and determine its size.
What symptoms can occur in dogs with a meningioma? Symptoms can include convulsions, behavioral changes, balance disorders, weakness, or paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system.. The specific symptoms depend on the location and size 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..
What treatment options are available for meningiomas in dogs? Treatment options include surgical 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., 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., and in some cases, drug therapies to slow or stop 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. growth.
Is a complete cure for meningiomas possible in dogs? A complete cure is rare, but treatment can improve quality of life and prolong the dog’s life. The course depends on factors such as 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. size, location, and the dog’s health.
How long can a dog with a meningioma live? Life expectancy varies greatly and depends on the treatment and 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. With appropriate treatment, some dogs can live for several months to years.
What risks are associated with surgical removal of a meningioma? As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., and complications from anesthesiaAnesthesia refers to the state of insensitivity to pain and can be partial (local anesthesia) or for the entire body (general anesthesia). It is used to keep patients pain-free during surgical procedures.. There is also a risk that 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. cannot be completely removed.
Can a meningioma recur in dogs? Yes, there is a possibility that 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. will return after treatment, especially if it could not be completely removed or if it is a particularly aggressive form.
Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to meningiomas? Yes, older dogs and certain breeds such as Golden Retrievers and Boxers appear to be at higher risk of developing meningiomas.
Can meningiomas be inherited in dogs? There is evidence that genetic factors may play a role in the development of meningiomas, but the exact heritability is not yet fully understood. Further research is needed to better understand the genetic risks.