Why Is My Dog’s Tongue Black? Vet-Approved Canine Health Facts

One of the most iconic images that likely springs to mind when you think of a dog is a big canine grin with a long pink tongue hanging out of the mouth. But sometimes, that tongue might not be pink but rather a different color.

A black tongue on a dog is likely just harmless pigmentation, but in certain cases, it can be a sign of a medical problem.

If your dog seems to have suddenly developed a black spot or patches on their otherwise pink tongue, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

For more information, read on as we discuss what causes a black tongue in dogs, whether it’s normal or a health issue, and what dog breeds are known for having naturally black tongues.

What Causes a Black Tongue in Dogs?

Most dogs have a pink tongue, but for those with black tongues, it’s primarily due to extra pigmentation.

Melanin determines the pigmentation of hair, eyes, and skin, like a dog having brown eyes and a red coat, for instance. When a dog’s tongue is black or has black spots or patches, excess melanin is usually present in those areas. In some cases, the pigmented areas might change, including getting darker or changing in shape, as the dog ages, all of which is perfectly normal. These dark areas should be completely flat with the same texture as the pink parts of the tongue. This means there shouldn't be any raised or differently textured areas.

Certain breeds are normally born with black tongues, which they will have for their entire lives.

When Is a Black Tongue a Concern?

If your dog was born with a black tongue or one with splotches of black, this is typically nothing to worry about. However, a few medical issues can cause discoloration of a dog’s tongue, particularly if it seems to change color suddenly.

Oral Melanoma

Oral melanoma is a malignant tumor that can affect the tongue, gums, and roof of the dog's mouth. The signs can include:

• Swelling and pain in the mouth and lymph nodes
• Bad breath
• Excessive panting
• Bleeding gums
• Excessive drooling with blood in the saliva
• Tooth loss
• Difficulty eating and loss of appetite
• Avoids having the head touched

Treatment can potentially include the surgical removal of the tumor and chemotherapy if it’s caught in time.

When you’re checking your dog’s tongue and see a black spot on it, look for the following signs:

• The spot is rapidly growing.
• It has uneven edges.
• It’s raised like a wart.
• It turns into an open sore.

For any of these signs, you should see your veterinarian immediately.

Niacin Deficiency

Niacin deficiency (vitamin B3 deficiency) can lead to black tongue disease in dogs. This is a rare condition because it can only occur if dogs aren’t getting enough niacin in their diets. Niacin is found in tryptophan, which is an amino acid found primarily in fish, red meat, and poultry. It’s also found in legumes, seeds, and nuts.

If a dog doesn’t receive enough animal protein in their diet, they can develop niacin deficiency, which can give them a darkened tongue. If the deficiency continues, it can eventually result in death.

The 5 Dog Breeds That Have Black Tongues

1. Chow Chow

The most well-known breed that sports a black or dark blue tongue is the Chow Chow. These dogs hail from Ancient China as far back as the Han Dynasty in 206 B.C. and are known for their red fluffy fur in addition to those notable tongues.

2. Shar-Pei

The other Ancient Chinese breed with a blue-black tongue is the Shar-Pei, which is also famous for being tremendously wrinkled! The Miniature Shar-Pei, being the tinier version, has a dark tongue, too.

3. Eurasier

The Eurasier was developed in Germany by crossing a Keeshond with the Chow Chow and was eventually crossed with the Samoyed. The Chow Chow ancestry has given the Eurasier a dark purple and spotted tongue.

4. Thai Ridgeback

The Thai Ridgeback is quite a rare breed outside of Thailand and has a ridge of hair along their back and a solid or spotted blue-black tongue.

5. Phu Quoc Ridgeback

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback, or the Vietnamese Ridgeback, is a rare breed that can have a solid or spotted blue-black tongue.

Other Dog Breeds With Black Markings on Their Tongues

Those six breeds tend to have blue-black tongues as part of their standard, which is often used to identify if the dog is purebred, particularly the Chow Chow. But many other breeds can get black spots and patches on their tongues. If they are born that way, it is likely less of a concern, but still worthy of asking your vet to have a look when they next see your pup.

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What Other Tongue Colors Should Be a Concern?

The tongue can be a good indication of a dog’s health. A sudden change in its color can signify a serious medical issue and should be seen by your veterinarian straight away.

• Pale pink to white: This can be a sign of anemia, which can result from internal bleeding or an immune system problem. It can also be an issue from parasites, the dog eating something toxic like garlic, and other diseases.
• Dark red, purple, or tinged blue: This can be from heatstroke, heart disease, electrical shock, and burns.

If your dog is showing other signs that they are in trouble, such as struggling to breathe, struggling to eat, bleeding from the mouth, or any other worrying signs, get your dog to the vet immediately!

Conclusion

Dogs born with black markings on their tongues just have more pigmentation in those areas, which is normal. Some dogs might have a bit of Chow Chow in their genetics or are simply prone to black spots on their tongues. But if the markings appear out of nowhere or start to change in texture or appearance and are accompanied by other signs that your dog isn't feeling well, see your vet immediately!

When brushing their teeth, keep an eye on your dog’s tongue and entire mouth. It’s best to identify any problems before they become something worse.

Featured Image Credit: JacLou DL, Pixabay