What Dog Has A Blue Tongue?

What dog has a blue tongue? As a dog owner, you are probably asking this question because you have noticed a discoloration of the tongue of a dog.

In some cases, it could be a cause for alarm while in some others, it could just be a trait. We’ll be discussing both sides in this article to help you sort things out.

Are Dogs’ Tongues Naturally Blue?

There are actually some dogs whose tongues are naturally blue.

In some dogs such as the Chow Chow and Shar-pei, having a blue tongue is a result of the natural genetic mutation in them.

These dogs are believed to produce higher levels of melanin which in turn leads to the intense blue color of their tongues. 

It is important we point out that the Chow Chow and Shar-pei are both Chinese dogs and are some of the world’s oldest dogs. 

When Is Not Natural For A Dog To Have A Blue Tongue?

One reason for blue tongues in dogs is diseases. The bluish coloring of a dog’s tongue could be as a result of cyanosis. Cyanosis is the bluish or purple tinge of a dog’s tissues that is mostly seen in their gums and skins. It generally points to a lack of oxygen in the dog’s blood.

Causes Of Cyanosis

Cyanosis can be caused by a wide range of diseases, including pneumonia, a trauma, heart defects (which is a very serious one), airway problems and the likes.

Whatever is the cause of Cyanosis, once a dog owner notices the discoloration of the tongue, efforts should be made to get the dog to a veterinarian as quickly as possible as delay could be bad for the dog and their owner.

Treatment Of Cyanosis In Dogs

Dogs that have cyanosis always have to undergo immediate oxygen therapy which helps the dog breathe better and this in turn helps the dog live a quality life.

In some special cases, where the cyanosis is as a result of heart issues, the dog will require a surgery to have any good chance of survival.

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Prevention And Management Measure(s)

In terms of cyanosis caused by heart issues, there is no known cure. This is the reason why it is important that you ensure that your dog is well taken care of in the first place.

Your commitment to the overall health of your dog will reduce your chances of your dog literally getting blue in the face.

Pay particular attention to your dog as they age and do not hesitate to report any abnormalities to your vet immediately. Remember, it is better safe than sorry.

For these dogs that have these heart issues, it is important that they are given low-salt diet as recommended by your vet.

Also, you will need to take them for routine medical checks and treatments so that any abnormality would be caught at its infancy.

What Dog Has A Blue Tongue? — FAQs

Why Did My Dog’s Tongue Turn Purple?

A purple tongue is usually not a good sign for anybody; dog or human. If your dog’s tongue is purple it could be as a result of anything from a toxic system, respiratory problems and hepatitis to liver disease and liver cancer.

So, if you notice your dog’s tongue is turning purple, immediately rush them to your vet.

Is A Dog’s Tongue Clean?

A dog’s tongue is not always clean, much like your own tongue. So, it is important that you consistently brush your dog’s teeth and tongue to make sure that his mouth smells fine.

Now, unlike you, consistently for your dog doesn’t mean everyday. You could do it once a week or wait till his mouth begins to smell foul (which is different from doggy breath).

That said, be sure that you are not using human toothbrush and/or paste. There are toothbrushes and pastes that are specifically for dogs.

Is A Chow The Only Dog With A Black Tongue?

Absolutely not. Other dogs that have a black tongue include the Chinese Shar-Pei, the Miniature Shar-Pei, the Thai Ridgeback and the Eurasier.

Why Is The End Of My Dog’s Tongue Black?

If the end of your dog’s tongue has just always been black, it could just be hperpigmentation. That is, that spot has a higher concentration of melanin than the rest of the tongue, much like dog breeds that have a naturally black tongue.

However, if the back of your dog’s tongue just started to be black, speak with your vet.

What Is Hanging Tongue Syndrome?

Hanging Tongue Syndrome (HTS) is a condition that makes it impossible for a dog to pull their tongue in of their own will.

This should not be mistaken for a dog hanging out their tongue. If your dog is hanging out their tongue of their own will, they will regularly retract said tongue. But if your dog has been hanging out their tongue without taking it in, there is probably a problem.

That said, if you are not sure, call your vet.

What Does A Healthy Dog Tongue Look Like?

For most dogs, a healthy tongue is generally pink. There could be slight discolorations here and there as a result of hyperpigmentation but for the most part, it’s pink.

That said, there are certainly some dogs for which a pink tongue isn’t normal. These dogs have a naturally black tongue and they include the Chow Chow and the Chinese Shar-Pei.