When was the last time you looked at your dog’s gums? If it’s been a while, or you never have before, you’re not alone. Many pet parents have never taken a close look inside of their dog’s mouth.
Like your own gums, the texture and color of a dog’s gums provide a window into dental health and overall well-being. Knowing what healthy and unhealthy gums look like will help you recognize when it’s time to take your dog to your veterinarian for a more thorough examination.
Healthy Gums
To examine your dog’s gums, gently lift his upper lip by his canine teeth. Be mindful that not all dogs like having their mouths examined, so be cautious when lifting your dog’s lip.
Most healthy dog gums have a salmon pink color. However, some breeds, such as the Chow Chow, have pigmented gums. This pigmentation, which is caused by extra melanin, can make it hard to evaluate the gums. Flat pigmented areas of the gums are normal; raised pigmented areas are abnormal and can indicate disease, such as oral cancer.
Healthy gums are moist to the touch.
Unhealthy Gums
Unhealthy gums have different colors and textures.
Abnormal colors * Pale pink gums suggest anemia (deficiency of red blood cells) or circulation problems, such as shock. * Blue or purple gums indicate a lack of oxygen due to problems such heart disease or airway obstruction (for example, choking). * Yellow gums, also known as jaundice, are due to liver disease. * Bright red gums can be caused by fever or infection. * Slightly red gums typically indicate gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums, or simple irritation from prolonged chewing on a chew toy.
Medical conditions that lead to abnormal gum colors can be chronic, such as heart disease, or acute and life-threatening, such as shock or choking. Seek veterinary care right away if your dog’s gums look abnormal.
Abnormal textures * Swollen, bleeding gums indicate gingivitis. Left untreated, gingivitis can lead to serious and painful dental disease. * Dry, tacky-feeling gums indicate dehydration, which likely requires veterinary treatment (offering a bowl of water usually isn’t enough).
Keeping Gums Healthy
Keeping your dog’s gums healthy is an important part of responsible pet ownership. Without proper care, the gums can be become diseased and even reduce a dog’s quality of life.
Cleaning a dog’s teeth, ideally each day, is a great way to maintain healthy gums. You will need a soft-bristled dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste. If your dog isn’t thrilled about having his teeth cleaned, try these steps to acclimate him to the process:
- Allow him to sniff the toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Over several days, place a small amount of toothpaste in your dog’s mouth with your finger and immediately reward him with a treat. Each day, increase the amount of time between giving the toothpaste and the treat.
- Repeat step 2, this time putting the toothpaste on the toothbrush.
Once your dog is acclimated, brush his teeth with slow circular motions, focusing on each tooth’s outer surface and staying away from the gumline.
If your dog resists you brushing his teeth, try some alternatives, such as dental diets and dental chews. Your veterinarian can help you decide which alternative is good for your dog. Be aware, though, that these alternatives are less effective than toothbrushing.
Just like people, dogs need professional dental care, too! An annual professional dental cleaning will help keep your dog’s gums healthy. This procedure requires anesthesia and can be expensive, but is very important for proper oral care.
Overall, your dog’s gums can tell you a lot about his health. While regular at-home and professional care will help keep your dog’s gums healthy, recognizing abnormal gum color and texture will help you know when your dog needs extra veterinary care.