This lump, like any new lump, needs to be examined by a veterinarian. A fine needle aspirate should be done to determine if it is an abscess (infection), tumor (benign or malignant), lymph node, or salivary gland. There are several lymph nodes in this area--they can become enlarged secondary to infection or inflammation of the face/oral cavity. Also lymph nodes can be enlarged secondary to cancer--called lymphoma. Lymphoma can affect dogs of all ages--it is not just a disease of old dogs. This needs to be ruled out. Based on the diagnosis your veterinarian can recommend appropriate treatment.
