As devoted pet parents, ensuring the health of our beloved furry companions remains our number one priority. We pay close attention to our doggo’s diet, coat health, and exercise, but a quick check inside their mouth can help us monitor for periodontal disease. The color of your dog’s gums can provide valuable information about their overall health. Read on for a gum color analysis, what it means and care tips. You will also get a color chart of healthy dog gums vs unhealthy.
What is the Color of Dog’s Gum?
First, let’s look at what gums are ideal for your dog’s health: Ideally, a dog’s gums should be pink in color, like chewing gum or raw salmon. However, some dog breeds may have mottled or dark gums. When you press on them with your finger, they will disappear for a second, then quickly turn pink (or spotted) again. They should also be wet and shiny, which is a sign that your dog is drinking a lot of water. You can tell the condition of your dog’s gums by having him relax and gently pulling his lips up and down with your fingers.
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Color Chart Healthy Dog Gums vs Unhealthy
The table listed below is the color chart healthy dog gums vs unhealthy:
| Healthy Dog Gum color | Unhealthy Dog Gum Color |
| Rose | Red |
| Pink | Yellow |
| Black (If by birth) | Blue |
| – | Brown |
| – | Black |
| – | Pale white |
Healthy Dog Gum Color Chart
As described above, healthy dog gums must be one of the following colors, moisture, smooth and smooth (not dry or sticky). And the pink gums should be flooded as soon as they press them.
- Rose – Chewing gum or pink salmon
- Pink: Certain breeds of dogs, such as Chau -fear, or common pei, gums can be partially pink with black or dark spots
- Black – Some dogs have completely black gums. If they have always been black since they were a puppy, it is their color of a healthy gum.
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Unhealthy Dog Gum Color Chart
Dogs with the following gum colors may need special attention as they may indicate an underlying health problem:
| Gum Colors | Indication |
|---|---|
| Red Or Dark cherry Gums | Carbon monoxide poisoning, or high blood pressure |
| Yellow Gums | Liver Dysfunction |
| Purple gums | Respiratory Issue |
| Brown spots | Autoimmune disease |
| Black gums | Periodontal disease |
| Pale or white gums | Blood loss Or Anaemia |
- Red gums: It can be a sign of gingivitis, while dark cherry-red gums are a cause for concern as they may indicate carbon monoxide poisoning, other types of poisoning, heat stroke, or high blood pressure. If your dog’s gums are just inflamed (deep pink), it could be because they’re overheated or excited. The gums will quickly revert to their typical pink hue, so you’ll recognize this. If the red color appears for no apparent reason or does not turn pink, take your dog to the vet immediately.
- Yellow: It can also be a sign liver dysfunction or another problem within the body. This is often accompanied by yellowing of your dog’s eyes, so keep an eye out for that as well.
- Blue or purple gums: It can indicate that your dog’s body isn’t getting enough oxygen, which could be a sign of a serious problem. This is medically known as cyanosis, and it could mean that your dog has pneumonia, heart problems, or other breathing issues.
- Brown spots: Brown color spots on the gums may simply be the result of aging, or they may be a sign of a more serious illness, such as an infection or autoimmune disease. If you notice new brown spots on your dog’s gums, consult your veterinarian.
- Black gums (that weren’t black before) can be a sign of infection or periodontal disease.
- Pale or white gums can indicate a number of serious health problems in your dog.
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Other Signs of Unhealthy Dog Gums
Aside from odd colors, there are other signs of unhealthy gums that you should pay special attention to. The following factors may indicate an internal health problem in your dog or signs of periodontal disease:
- Sticky/dry gums usually indicate dehydration
- Swollen/inflamed gums may be due to a dental infection or abscess
- Bleeding gums when brushing or when your dog chews or eats
- Bad breath that is much stronger than usual
- Overgrowth of gums is a common issue if your dog has periodontal disease, but some breeds are more prone to it. It may also indicate hormonal changes or a reaction to medication.
- Receding gums are usually a sign of periodontal disease.
- Gum growths, warts, and sores are very common, but they should be treated immediately to avoid pain and discomfort.
If you notice any of the above signs, take your dog to the vet or for a dental check-up as soon as possible.
How to Keep Your Dog’s Gums Healthy?
By now, you’re probably looking for ways to prevent your dog’s gums from becoming unhealthy. Here are some dog dental care tips you can implement for your dog right now:
- Schedule regular professional dental cleanings- Just like you, your pooch needs to get their mouth regularly looked at by a dog dentist or vet – they can analyze any burgeoning issues and provide proper treatment.
- Brush your dog’s teeth- We know that, and for many dogs, it’s a never-ending story. However, you can gradually teach your dog to accept dental cleanings, and the earlier you start, the better. Here are some step-by-step tips for brushing your dog’s teeth.
- Dog Toothpaste Alternatives- If brushing their teeth is too much of a hassle, you can at least supplement oral care with dog dental sticks, vegetarian gum (such as carrot), or dog mouth spray. Good nutrition is key to a healthy dog’s mouth, including teeth, tongue and gums.
- Invest in a balanced diet full of fresh ingredients and supplements for your dog… and no sugary treats! Provide your dog with treats and dental toys.
- You can get dental treats for dogs, long-lasting chews and chew toys that are perfect for your dog’s dental care.
Conclusion
If you are worried about your dog’s gum color, the above information can help you figure out the actual issue. Salmon or bubblegum pink (or black or pink with black specks, if that was always the case), Color changes back to pink immediately when pressed, Slippery and wet and Gums free of abscesses, pits, or tartar are the signs of healthy gums. Changing gum colors can be an indication of health issues.
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