Why Does My Dog Stick Out the Tip of His Tongue? Exploring Reasons

If you’ve ever seen your dog lying around with the tip of their tongue sticking out, you may have wondered what’s going on. In most cases, when dogs have their tongues out a little bit, it’s a sign of relaxation and comfort, similar to when people let their mouths hang open a little when they’re feeling calm. However, it can also be a sign of stress, thirst, or an oral or respiratory health issue, so it’s important to consider the circumstances.

In this article, we’ll explore the most recent studies from veterinarians and dog behaviorists to find out the most common causes of this unusual dog behavior. You’ll learn what sticking out the tip of the tongue may indicate about your dog’s emotional and physical well-being, which can help you make sure you’re meeting your dog’s needs and strengthen your relationship with your pet.

Hanging Tongue Syndrome: A Condition That Impacts Specific Dog Breeds

Some dogs suffer from a condition known as hanging tongue syndrome, which causes the tongue to hang out of the mouth. According to WagWalking, this can be caused by congenital issues, trauma, dental problems, or neurological issues. The amount of control the dog has over their tongue can vary, with some dogs having very little control and therefore needing help with eating, drinking, and grooming.

Some breeds are more susceptible to this condition because of their physical makeup. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) and toy breeds are especially at risk because their skull and jaw shape can lead to an oversized tongue in relation to the size of their mouth. Dental problems, such as missing teeth or a misaligned jaw, can also be to blame, according to Tuff Pets.

That said, any breed can suffer from hanging tongue syndrome if the nerves or muscles that control the tongue are damaged. This neurological damage, which can be caused by trauma, disease, or congenital issues, can result in a lack of control over the tongue. Now that we have a better understanding of this underlying cause, we can take a closer look at how it impacts brachycephalic breeds.

Brachycephalic Breeds and Tongue Protrusion: What's the Link?

Brachycephalic breeds, like pugs and bulldogs, have a shortened upper jaw that results in a number of anatomical abnormalities, as described by The Pet Hospitals. These abnormalities include stenotic nares (narrowed nasal openings), enlarged tongues, elongated soft palates, and narrowed airways.

These abnormalities can lead to breathing problems and are associated with the brachycephalic breeds' tendency to stick out their tongues, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. In fact, a study in PMC showed that tongue volume normalized to body weight was significantly higher in English and French bulldogs than pugs, indicating that there are differences in tongue size and structure between brachycephalic breeds.

This is important to know so that appropriate care and management can be provided, according to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. With this in mind, we can now look at the different ways that dogs with chronic tongue protrusion can be treated.

How to Help Dogs With Hanging Tongue Syndrome

Dogs with hanging tongue syndrome can suffer from a number of symptoms, including drooling, bad breath, and difficulty eating or drinking, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. The treatment for the condition can depend on the cause and the severity of the dog's symptoms.

Conservative treatments for less severe cases can include tongue moisturizers, pain relief, antibiotics to treat any infections, and a soft diet, according to The Stuff of Success. However, if the condition is more severe and the dog's quality of life is significantly impacted, surgical removal (glossectomy) may be the best option, according to the Disease Detail Information.

No matter the treatment, it's important to make sure that dogs receive regular dental care and that pet parents stay vigilant for any changes in the color, texture, or size of the tongue, which can help ensure that any issues, such as infections or frostbite, are caught and treated early, according to PetCareRx. With the right care, dogs with hanging tongue syndrome can be kept comfortable and happy.

How to Help Dogs With Persistent Tongue Protrusion: Advice for Pet Parents

To help dogs with conditions that cause their tongue to stick out, pet parents must take certain precautions to prevent potential issues and ensure their well-being, according to WagWalking. This includes regularly checking the tongue for dryness, cracking, swelling, and discoloration, which may indicate an infection or injury.

To prevent the tongue from drying out and cracking, pet parents can keep the tongue moist with water or special tongue gels that are safe for dogs, says WellPets. In addition, pet parents should make sure to protect the tongue from the elements by keeping their dog out of extreme heat and cold and out of direct sunlight, according to Yahoo Lifestyle.

Pet parents should also make sure their dogs see their veterinarians regularly and get dental check-ups to ensure any issues that are contributing to the tongue protrusion are caught and treated early, notes WagWalking. With proper care and attention, dogs with persistent tongue protrusion can live comfortably.

Conclusion: What to Do About Tongue Protrusion in Dogs

While tongue protrusion in dogs is often a sign of relaxation, it can also be a sign of an underlying health issue. Hanging tongue syndrome, brachycephalic airway abnormalities, and dental problems are just a few of the issues that can lead to chronic tongue protrusion. It is important to recognize these issues early and seek veterinary care to help manage the problem and avoid further complications.

In addition, proper care, including keeping the tongue moist, managing the dog's environment, and regular vet visits, can help ensure that the dog remains as comfortable as possible. Finally, by understanding the causes of tongue protrusion and seeking help when necessary, dog owners can build a stronger relationship with their pets.