Cancer is the leading cause of death in older dogs, and palliative care approaches that prioritize quality of life are increasingly available for dogs whose cancers are not curable.
Canine cancer welfare requires a shift from cure-focused to quality-focused thinking, recognizing that prolonging life without adequate quality does not serve the dog's welfare. Modern palliative protocols can maintain comfort and meaningful engagement with life for months beyond what was previously possible. The hospice veterinary movement is developing the professional infrastructure and owner education needed to support dogs and families through terminal illness with dignity and minimal suffering.