Why Does My Dog’s Tongue Stick Out? Causes, Health, and What to Do

Your dog’s hanging tongue may be cute but could signal health issues needing attention.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 22, 2025

Your dog’s hanging tongue may be cute but could signal health issues needing attention.

Why Does My Dogâs Tongue Stick Out? Causes, Health Risks, and When to Worry

A dog’s tongue hanging out can be adorable, but it may also trigger concern from pet owners. Is your dog blissfully content, or could that protruding tongue signal an underlying problem? This article explores all the common and uncommon reasons behind dogsâ lolling tonguesâfrom pure relaxation, panting, and breed quirks to dental disease and medical conditions like Hanging Tongue Syndrome.

Your Dogâs Tongue Sticks Out When Relaxed
Sticking the Tongue Out During Panting
Breed-Specific and Genetic Causes
Dental Diseases and Tooth Loss
Medical, Neurological, and Traumatic Causes
Hanging Tongue Syndrome Explained
Potential Risks of a Hanging Tongue
When to See the Veterinarian
Frequently Asked Questions

Your Dogâs Tongue Sticks Out When Relaxed

Most dog owners have noticed their pupâs tongue poking out during a nap, after a meal, or while dozing in a sunbeam. In many cases, tongue protrusion is simply a sign of relaxation or happiness . After play, a good meal, or cuddling, your dog may let its tongue slip out for a few minutes because its jaw and facial muscles are loose.

This casual tongue lolling is not typically a cause for alarm.
If your dog repositions its tongue naturally, and there are no other symptoms, itâs usually harmless.
Many small and toy breeds exhibit this trait more than large breeds.

Sticking the Tongue Out During Panting

Panting is a normal, essential behavior that helps dogs cool down . Unlike humans (who sweat to regulate body temperature), dogs rely on panting as their primary mechanism:

Panting increases evaporation from the tongue and respiratory tract, helping the dog dissipate body heat.
Panting is common after exercise, play, or during warm weather.
During panting, the tongue is often extended well outside the mouth.

If your dog is panting excessively or for prolonged periodsâespecially in hot weather or after exertionâmake sure to provide shade, water, and a cool resting place. If panting persists despite rest and cooling, consult your veterinarian for advice, as it could signal underlying heat exhaustion or respiratory issues, especially in brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs.

Breed-Specific and Genetic Causes

Certain breeds are more prone to having their tongues stick out, and genetics often play a role :

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breedsâsuch as Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and French Bulldogsâhave skulls and mouths that are shorter than their tongues, so the tongue may simply not fit inside the mouth easily .
Other toy breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers are also known for their lolling tongues, often due to genetic jaw or mouth structure quirks.
Any breed can be affected if their tongue is relatively large, or their mouth is unusually small due to congenital issues.

For these animals, the protruding tongue is often lifelong and doesnât necessarily indicate a medical problem, as long as there are no signs of distress.

Breeds Prone to Tongue Sticking Out
Breed Type	Name Examples	Reason
Brachycephalic	Pug, Bulldog, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu	Short skull, flat face, long tongue
Toy Breeds	Chihuahua, Yorkie	Jaw/tooth loss, congenital mouth shape

Dental Diseases and Tooth Loss

Dental health is a major factor in tongue position :

Tooth lossâespecially of the lower caninesâremoves support for the tongue. The tongue can slip through gaps where teeth once held it in place.
Tooth extractions, trauma, or untreated dental diseases increase the risk of a constantly exposed tongue.
This is especially common in senior dogs and small breeds, which are prone to dental problems.
Painful dental disease may even change how your dog carries its tongue or mouth, increasing the chance of protrusion.

According to veterinary surveys, as many as 80â90% of dogs over the age of 3 have some form of dental disease . Regular dental care is crucial for preventing these issues.

Medical, Neurological, and Traumatic Causes

Sometimes, a hanging tongue indicates an underlying medical or neurological issue :

Nerve damage: Injury, disease, or disorders affecting the nerves controlling tongue movement may result in loss of muscle tone.
Brain or cranial nerve issues can impair tongue control, causing it to protrude permanently.
Oral or jaw trauma (accidents, bites, surgery) may damage the mouth structure.
Oral tumors, inflammation, or swelling can sometimes push the tongue out.
Muscle wasting, neurological disorders, or certain medications may also be factors.

If the condition appears suddenly, or is accompanied by trouble eating, drinking, or breathing, urgent veterinary care is necessary.

Hanging Tongue Syndrome Explained

Hanging Tongue Syndrome is a specific diagnosis where a dogâs tongue hangs out persistently, often due to structural, neurological, or genetic reasons . It is characterized by the inability to keep the tongue inside the mouth, either partially or completely.

Can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired due to dental disease, trauma, or nerve damage.
Not breed-specific, but certain breeds are predisposed.
May cause the dog difficulty eating or drinking, and the tongue is at risk of drying, cracking, or ulceration without proper care.

Dogs with Hanging Tongue Syndrome require regular oral care and sometimes even tongue moisturization or surgical intervention for severe cases.

Potential Risks of a Hanging Tongue

For most dogs, occasionally sticking out the tongue is harmless. However, if the tongue is exposed continuously, potential health risks include :

Dryness and cracking: Constant exposure to air dries out the tongue, resulting in discomfort, cracking, and sores.
Ulceration or infection: Prolonged drying can lead to open wounds or secondary infections.
Difficulty chewing or swallowing: Especially if neurological issues or mouth trauma are present.
Tongue injury: The tongue is more vulnerable to bites or external injuries if it is always hanging out.

Owners should check their dog’s tongue daily for changes in color, texture, or wounds if this is a persistent issue.

When to See Your Veterinarian

Any sudden changes in tongue position, or if the tongue is sticking out along with other symptoms, should be promptly addressed with your veterinarian:

Sudden onset of a drooping or protruding tongue could indicate swelling, nerve damage, or a medical emergency.
If your dogâs tongue is dry, cracked, has sores, or changes color (becomes very pale or blue), seek immediate veterinary help.
Difficulty eating, drinking, or breathing is always a reason for urgent care.
If tongue protrusion is lifelong and without other symptoms, discuss routine care and monitoring with your vet to keep your pet comfortable.

Your veterinarian may perform a physical exam, dental evaluation, imaging, and bloodwork to determine the cause. Treatment is tailored to the diagnosis, and may include dental work, supportive care, lubricating gels, or surgical options when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal for my dogâs tongue to stick out a little when resting?

Yes, many dogs let their tongue hang out slightly when theyâre completely relaxed or sleeping. This is especially common among small breeds, older dogs, and after play. If your dog can pull its tongue back in as usual, and is otherwise healthy, thereâs little reason for concern.

Which breeds are most likely to have their tongues stick out?

Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus) and toy breeds (like Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers) are the most commonly affected due to features like a flat face, small mouth, or disproportionately large tongue.

Could a sticking-out tongue signal a health problem?

If your dogâs tongue is almost always out, it could point to dental disease, loss of teeth, trauma, nerve or neurological issues, or specific conditions like Hanging Tongue Syndrome. Watch for additional signs like drooling, changes in appetite, sores, or breathing difficulties.

How can I care for a dog with Hanging Tongue Syndrome?

Keep your dog well-hydrated, check and clean the tongue regularly, use veterinarian-recommended lubricants, maintain routine dental care, and protect the tongue from injury or sun damage. Work with your vet for long-term management.

Is surgery ever necessary?

In severe cases where the tongueâs exposure leads to repeated trauma or ulceration that cannot be managed with home care, partial tongue removal surgery may be considered. This is rare and reserved only for the most serious, non-resolving cases, always in consultation with a veterinary specialist.

Key Takeaways

For most dogs, a tongue sticking out is a normal, adorable traitâespecially during relaxation or panting.
Chronic, unexplained, or worsening tongue protrusion may signal underlying dental, genetic, or medical issues, and should be evaluated by a vet.
Breeds with flat faces and small mouths are most often affected by Hanging Tongue Syndrome.
Prevent dental problems with regular cleanings and checkupsâgood oral health means less risk of a lolling tongue.
If in doubt, always consult your veterinarian for personalized care and guidance.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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