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We all know that one of the things that make dogs so adorable is when they stick their tongue out! It’s just so darn cute, right? But have you ever wondered why they do it?
Well, it turns out that there are actually several reasons why dogs stick their tongue out. And in some cases, it can even be a sign of a health problem.
So, in this article, we’re going to take a look at 10 of the most common reasons why dogs stick their tongue out. We’ll also talk about when you should be concerned and when you should take your dog to the vet.
So, let’s get started!
Table Of Contents
Why Do Dogs Stick Their Tongue Out: 10+ Possible Reasons
When a dog sticks his tongue out, it can be cute, funny, or even concerning, depending on the context.
It’s normal for dogs to stick their tongues out from time to time, but if your dog’s tongue is hanging out all the time, it could be a sign of a serious health problem.
If you’re wondering, “why does my dog stick his tongue out,” there are a few possible explanations.
Excitement or Stress
One common reason dogs stick their tongue out is simply because they’re excited or stressed. When dogs are excited, they may pant and stick their tongues out in an effort to cool down. Similarly, when dogs are stressed, they may also pant and stick their tongues out as a way of calming themselves down.
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Neurological Problem
Another possibility is that your dog is suffering from a neurological problem that is causing his tongue to hang out of his mouth. This is often the case with dogs who have had a stroke or those who have been diagnosed with a condition called Hanging Tongue Syndrome.
Hanging Tongue Syndrome
Hanging Tongue Syndrome is a condition that causes a dog’s tongue to hang out of his mouth due to a weakness in the muscles that control the tongue. While this condition is not necessarily dangerous, it can be uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to dehydration if not treated.
Hot Environment
Another common reason dogs stick their tongue out is because they’re trying to cool down. Dogs don’t sweat as humans do, so they pant to release heat. When it’s especially hot out, you may see your dog sticking his tongue out in an effort to evaporate more saliva and keep cool.
Medication
Certain medications can cause a dog’s tongue to hang out of his mouth. If your dog is taking any new medication, be sure to ask your veterinarian if this is a common side effect.
Panting
Panting is a normal dog behavior that helps them regulate their body temperature. However, if your dog is panting more than usual, it could be a sign that he’s overheated or that he has a medical condition that’s causing him to pant excessively.
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Toxic Exposure
If your dog has been exposed to a toxin, it’s possible that his tongue is hanging out as a way to get rid of the poison. If you think your dog has been exposed to a toxin, call your veterinarian immediately.
Nausea
Another possibility is that your dog is feeling nauseous and is trying to get rid of the taste in his mouth by sticking his tongue out. If your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea along with sticking his tongue out, it’s best to call your vet.
Abnormal Jaw Bone
An abnormal jawbone can cause a dog’s tongue to hang out of his mouth. An abnormal jaw bone can be caused by an injury, a birth defect, or a tumor. If your dog has an abnormal jawbone, he’ll likely have difficulty keeping his tongue inside his mouth, and his tongue may appear to be swollen or discolored.
If your dog has an abnormal jawbone, he’ll need to see a vet for treatment. Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition, but it may include surgery, radiation therapy, or medication.
Dental Disease
Dental disease is another common reason why dogs stick their tongues out. This is because the disease can cause inflammation and pain in the mouth, which makes it difficult for your dog to keep his tongue inside. Dental disease can also lead to bad breath. If you think your dog may have dental disease, you should take him to the vet for an evaluation.
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Upper Respiratory tract Infection
An upper respiratory tract infection can also cause your dog to stick his tongue out. This is because the infection can cause inflammation in the throat, which makes it difficult for your dog to swallow. If your dog has an upper respiratory tract infection, he will need to see a vet for treatment.
Conclusion
There are several reasons why your dog may stick their tongue out. The most common reasons are panting and the Flehmen response. Other causes include heatstroke, shallow breaths, and neurological problems.
If your dog is sticking their tongue out, it is important to keep an eye on them and seek medical attention if necessary.
