We’ve all come across it —a dog flopped down, tongue flopping out, looking like they’re living their best life. While this laid-back look is often nothing more than a sign of pure relaxation, a tongue that’s always hanging around might be trying to tell you something more serious.
What’s with the tongue?
Dogs rely on their tongues to cool down, especially after a workout or on hot days. But if that tongue stays out even when they’re just lounging around, it could be more than just a quirky habit—it might be a sign of an underlying issue.
If your pup’s tongue is always on display, it might not just be their signature look —there could be a reason behind it. Here are some possible explanations:
- Missing teeth: A gap-toothed grin isn’t just a quirky feature —it can make it tricky for dogs to keep their tongue in place. Losing certain teeth, especially the lower canines, removes the natural support that helps hold the tongue in, causing it to slip out more often.
- Tongue too big for the mouth: Some breeds, especially pugs, bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, have tongues that are simply too large for the space available. Their flat faces and compact skulls don’t leave much room, so their tongue tends to peek out whether they want it to or not.
- Nerve damage or neurological issues: Sometimes, a constantly exposed tongue isn’t just a habit—it’s a result of nerve damage or neurological conditions. If a dog loses control over their tongue muscles due to injury or disease, it may end up hanging out all the time.
- Injuries That Affect the Mouth: A past trauma to the jaw, mouth, or facial nerves can permanently affect how a dog holds their tongue. Scarring or muscle damage may prevent them from keeping it inside their mouth, leading to that adorable (but possibly concerning) tongue-out look.
Apart from all that, some dogs develop Hanging Tongue Syndrome, where the tongue loses its usual muscle function. This can be something they’re born with or a condition that develops later due to structural or neurological changes.
If your dog’s tongue is always hanging out, it might just be part of their charm —or it could be worth checking in with a vet to rule out any underlying issues. Either way, their goofy grin is sure to keep stealing hearts!
Keeping your pup comfortable at home
A tongue that won’t stay put isn’t always a cause for concern, but a little extra care can help keep your furry friend happy and comfy. Here’s how to make sure their signature look doesn’t turn into a problem:
First, keep the water bowl full. Hydration is key! A tongue that’s always out can dry up quickly, so make sure your pup has plenty of fresh water to sip on.
Every now and then, take a peek at their tongue for any dry spots, cracks, or unusual discoloration. A healthy tongue should be moist and pink, not looking like it’s been through a desert trek.
A tongue exposed to scorching heat or freezing cold is more prone to burns or frostbite. If the temperatures are extreme, keep your pup in a comfortable environment where their tongue won’t suffer. (And make sure they don’t lick any ice, we all know how that ends!)
A little extra attention goes a long way in making sure your dog’s famous tongue-out expression stays cute and healthy. If your pup’s tongue is always out and starting to look dry, making mealtime a struggle, or showing other unusual signs, it’s time for a vet visit. A quick check-up can help keep them feeling good, looking adorable, and living their best tail-wagging life!
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