Clinical signs associated with brain tumors in dogs: 97 cases (1992-1997)

Objective-To determine the prevalence of various clinical signs in dogs wit h brain tumors. Design-Retrospective study. Animals-97 dogs with brain tumors. Procedure-Medical records were reviewed for signalment, tumor type and loca tion, and clinical signs. Results-33 breeds were represented; Golden Retrievers were most commonly af fected. Most dogs were older (median age, 9 years); 95% of dogs were greate r than or equal to 5 years old. Seventy-six percent of dogs had tumors in t he supratentorial region. Seizures were the most common clinical sign at in itial examination, with lower prevalence for circling, ataxia,and head tilt . Meningioma was the most common tumor. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Brain tumors develop most often in dogs greater than or equal to 5 years old and are uncommon in dogs <: 5 years ol d. Seizures are a common clinical sign, and a brain tumor should be conside red in dogs that have their first seizure after they are 4 years old.