Emerging liquid biopsy tests for cancer detection in dogs offer the prospect of earlier diagnosis and better welfare outcomes for the many dogs that develop cancer.
Earlier cancer detection has the potential to transform welfare outcomes for affected dogs. Late-stage cancer diagnoses mean that treatment options are more limited, side effects more severe, and quality of life during treatment often worse. Detecting cancer at earlier stages — before clinical signs appear — enables less aggressive treatment, longer remissions, and more informed end-of-life planning. Liquid biopsy tests are non-invasive (requiring only a blood sample) and can be incorporated into annual wellness visits. While the science is still developing and no test is perfect, the welfare promise of earlier detection is significant. High-risk breed owners and veterinarians should engage with available screening options as they become validated.