Last updated on December 23rd, 2025 at 06:34 pm
What if there were a way to detect cancer in dogs earlier—before symptoms became obvious?
Cancer is one of the scariest diagnoses for dog owners, especially as dogs get older. In the past, finding cancer early wasn’t always easy. Many times, signs didn’t show up until the disease was already advanced.
New tools are starting to change that. One of them is Nu.Q®, a blood test for dogs that helps veterinarians look for cancer earlier.
Let’s take a closer look at what Nu.Q® is and what this test can—and can’t—tell us.
What Is Nu.Q?
Nu.Q is an innovative cancer screening test designed specifically for dogs. Developed by Volition Veterinary Diagnostics, this test uses advanced technology to detect cancer at its earliest stages, providing a crucial tool for veterinarians and pet owners alike.
The goal of Nu.Q is simple: to identify cancer before it progresses, giving dogs a better chance at successful treatment and a higher quality of life.
How Does Nu.Q Work?
Nu.Q starts with a simple blood test taken from your dog—just like blood work done during a regular vet visit.
1. Blood sample
Your veterinarian takes a small blood sample from your dog.
2. What the test looks for
The blood is checked for tiny pieces of DNA that can be released into the bloodstream when cancer cells are present.
3. What the results mean
If higher-than-normal levels are found, it may suggest that cancer could be present—even before clear symptoms show up.
4. What happens next
Your veterinarian receives the results and can decide if more testing is needed, such as imaging or biopsies, to get a clearer answer.
What Cancers Does Nu.Q Screen For?
Nu.Q is capable of detecting multiple types of cancer, including:
Lymphoma – One of the most common cancers in dogs, affecting the lymphatic system including lymph nodes.
Hemangiosarcoma – A cancer of the blood vessels, often affecting the spleen or heart.
Osteosarcoma –Â A type of bone cancer.
Mast Cell Tumors –Â A form of skin cancer.
The ability to screen for multiple cancers with a single blood test makes Nu.Q an invaluable tool in the early detection and treatment process.
Benefits for Dogs and Their Veterinarians
Cancer may be easier to treat when it’s found early.
Nu.Q can sometimes pick up signs of cancer before a dog shows obvious symptoms. This gives veterinarians and pet owners more time to act.
It’s easy on dogs.
Nu.Q only requires a blood test. There’s no surgery, no anesthesia, and very little stress. This is especially helpful for senior dogs or dogs with other health problems.
Early treatment can mean better outcomes.
When cancer is found sooner, treatment may be simpler and less intense. Many dogs can feel better longer and enjoy a better quality of life.
It may help lower costs over time.
Finding cancer earlier can help avoid some of the expensive treatments often needed when cancer is caught late.
It helps veterinarians make better decisions.
For vets, Nu.Q is another helpful tool. It gives more information sooner and helps guide next steps in care.
Real-Life Impact
As a veterinarian, my goal has always been to give dogs the best care possible.
Lately, I’ve started using the Nu.Q cancer test as part of routine screenings for some of my dog patients, and I’ve been really impressed with how helpful it can be.
This simple blood test that gives me more information when I’m concerned about cancer and helps guide what steps to take next. Having that extra insight allows me to make more informed decisions about further testing and care.
Just as importantly, it gives pet owners peace of mind. Having clearer information helps families feel more confident about their dog’s care, and that’s why Nu.Q has become a useful tool when I practice.
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Final Thoughts – Cancer Test For Dogs
The Nu.Q cancer test is changing how veterinarians screen dogs for cancer. It gives us another way to gather helpful information and decide what to do next.
When it’s used as part of regular vet care, it can help guide earlier conversations and better care choices.
While no test can give all the answers on its own, tools like Nu.Q help veterinarians take a more thoughtful and informed approach to a dog’s care—especially when cancer is a concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the Nu.Q cancer test?
The Nu.Q cancer test has shown promising results in clinical trials, demonstrating a good ability to detect certain types of cancer in dogs. However, like all diagnostic tests, it may not be 100% accurate. It is most effective when used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools and veterinary assessments to provide a comprehensive evaluation of a dog’s health.
When should my dog have the Nu.Q cancer test?
I usually recommend it when sending out labwork for a senior (older than 7 years old) blood panel.
What should I do if the Nu.Q cancer test indicates a possible cancer?
If the Nu.Q cancer test shows the presence of cancer biomarkers, it’s important to follow up with your veterinarian for more tests. Imaging like x-rays and ultrasound, or tissue biopsies, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and stage of cancer.
Your veterinarian will guide you through the next steps and discuss potential treatment options and management plans based on the findings.
 Is the Nu.Q cancer test safe for all dogs?
The Nu.Q cancer test is generally safe for all dogs, as it involves only a routine blood draw. However, as with any medical procedure, there may be small risks, such as slight discomfort or bruising at the site of the blood draw.
The test is non-invasive and does not involve any sedation or anesthesia. It can be performed on dogs of all ages, but the decision to use the test should be made in consultation with your veterinarian, who can assess your dog’s overall health and suitability for the test.
How often should my dog be tested with the Nu.Q cancer test?
The frequency of testing with the Nu.Q cancer test depends on several factors, including your dog’s age, breed, medical history, and risk factors for cancer. For older dogs or those with a higher risk of cancer, your veterinarian may recommend more frequent testing once or twice a year.
For younger, low-risk dogs, the test may be performed less frequently or as part of a routine wellness check. It’s best to discuss with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate testing schedule based on your dog’s specific needs and health status.
Dr. Georgina Ushi is a veterinarian and freelance medical writer. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009. Dr. Ushi has worked for 16 years in the Tampa Bay area, providing compassionate care to dogs, cats, and exotic pets.
In addition to her clinical work, she serves as an adjunct instructor at Florida A&M University, teaching in the veterinary technology program. Dr. Ushi also consults for pet well-being brands and writes evidence-based pet health content for Pet Health Love, as well as for PetMD. She is passionate about educating and empowering pet owners through clear, trustworthy information.
Her professional interests include emergency medicine, dermatology, pet telehealth, nutrition, and wildlife medicine.
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