WHY DO SOME DOGS HAVE BLACK TONGUES?
Some pet parents may be worried when they see a black tongue on their chow chow puppy; others may have grown used to their pup’s spotted tongue and have never thought
There are some breeds that include this black or blue tongue as specific to their definition. Chow chows, Chinese shar-peis, miniature shar-peis, and Eurasiers are just some of these
about it further. This month, we’ll explore the origin of the black tongue and black tongue spots on dogs.
breeds. The first three breeds have extremely dark mouths with this pigment spread to their gums and lips. Eurasiers are a cross between a couple of breeds including chow chow. Their blue or black tongue trait is passed along through breeding. The spotted tongue trait in
While some breeds, like the chow chow, often have that blue-black
tongue, it doesn’t mean that a purebred golden shepherd with brown spots in their mouth has been crossbred. This pigmentation is simply a result of melanin. This microscopic pigment colors a dog’s tongue black or blue. Melanin shows up in humans, too, coloring brown and black skin, freckles, and birthmarks. This pigment on a dog’s tongue often also extends to their gums and lips. It’s all normal but if the texture changes and appears to be raised, if the mouth becomes malodorous, or if your dog is showing signs of pain, be sure to bring your dog in for an exam.
other dogs can also suggest some of this hereditary characteristic being passed along but doesn’t always indicate chow chow or shar-pei lineage.
Ultimately, black tongues are just another unique trait for pet parents to love in their dogs. There shouldn’t be any need to worry unless the texture or odor of the dog’s mouth shifts. If a new spot you’ve not noticed before emerges, be sure to check in with us as well. We’re always happy to take a second look to alleviate any anxiety.
Carrot and Catnip Cat Treats Inspired by Epicuricloud.com
S NCV ew C Policy At the time of scheduling a dental or surgery appointment, a $250 deposit will be required. This deposit will be applied to the procedure bill. If you need to cancel the appointment, and you give us at least 24-hour notice, the deposit will be refunded.
If you want to be your cat’s absolute favorite human, bake these catnip treats; they won’t be able to resist!
INGREDIENTS
• • •
3/4 cup finely shredded carrot 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• • •
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 cup oat flour, plus more as needed
Cold water as needed
1 tbsp dried catnip
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a bowl, mix coconut oil and flour until the mixture looks sandy, then stir in catnip and carrots and mix in egg. Add water if the mixture isn’t holding together or add extra flour if the mixture looks too sticky. 3. Sprinkle a flat surface with additional flour and roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. 4. Using a fork, prick the dough all over. After, cut into 1/2-inch squares. 5. Arrange squares on the prepared baking sheet and bake for around 12 minutes or until they begin to brown. Cool completely before serving!
3
WWW.SURFACECREEKVETERINARYCENTER.COM
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator