Depending on the dog, the Chow Chow’s tongue might be blue, purple, grayish, or even black. Its pigmented cells, which are analogous to the cells that determine the color of human skin, are the only thing that gives it its color. It’s interesting that several wild animals, including giraffes and even some bears, including polar bears, also have dark tongues. According to some studies, Chow Chows are descended from a Hemicyon, a type of dog-bear hybrid that lived in the Miocene era. The name literally translates to “dog-bear.” It is challenging to provide scientific evidence for this theory to be true, yet it is also not implausible. One element that might lend credence to this notion is that the Chow Chow and the Hemicion both have fossils that depict them as having 44 teeth.
Although they may not be the only breed of dog with a blue tongue, Chow Chows are the only canine species with blue lips and palates. Numerous breeds have these colored dots, but none have mucous membranes that are entirely dark. Unusually, the Chow Chow breed does not come pre-equipped with a blue tongue. Instead, it appears between the ages of 2 and 3 months. The tongue is considered to be non-purebred if it does not change color and stays pink.
What does a dog’s blue tongue mean?
A healthy dog’s tongue should be a deep pink color. Dogs’ tongues will be pinker as they get younger. As a dog ages, the color’s richness will start to fade, which is frequently a sign of declining vigor for the dog breeder.
Note that tongue color simply suggests underlying conditions. To determine the precise condition, a professional medical diagnostic is required.
Pale pink tongue
Reduced vitality is frequently indicated by a pale pink tint. It might also indicate a decline in red blood cells, which is the beginning of canine anemia. A comprehensive blood test conducted by a qualified veterinarian can identify a blood deficit.
Red tongue
When a dog’s tongue turns from pink to red, it may indicate that the puppy is overheating. As the dog attempts to release heat through the tongue on a hot day, the tongue will turn red. The tongue’s color returns to normal after it cools down.
The puppy may be overheated if the dog is comfortable but the tongue is still red. Dogs who are overheating may also exhibit excessive panting and pale, dry gums. Additionally, a dog in discomfort will pant excessively while resting and have a crimson tongue.
It takes minor changes, like a reddish tongue, to detect these anomalies in dogs because they are quite good at hiding their pain. Older dogs who are in pain may toss and turn during the night and have a red tongue to indicate their discomfort. If the dogs awaken, it can be a sign that they are struggling to control their body temperature.
Finally, organ disease may be indicated by a crimson tongue. The corners of the tongue may turn red due to elevated liver enzyme levels.
Dog blue tongue explained
The blue tongue on your dog may or may not be a medical issue. The Chow Chow and the Sharpei are the only canines in the world with naturally blue tongues. Any other breed of dog that displays a blue tongue may be cyanotic.
In dogs, cyanosis is a symptom of inadequate or reduced blood flow, frequently to isolated bodily organs. The main cause of impaired blood circulation is the heart. Due to the heart’s difficulty in pumping blood throughout the body, a dog with a cardiac condition will have a blue tongue. When a dog feels stressed or anxious, such as when they are frightened or in danger, this can happen.
Fun fact: Because the tongue contains numerous blood vessels, it can be utilized to detect canine circulatory problems.
Any breed of dog can develop dog blue tongue syndrome, but Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are more prone to it. This is a result of the mitral valve, which is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle, gradually degenerating. One of the signs that occurs as this valve ages is a blue tongue because it restricts circulation.
Purple or Lavender tongue
A dog’s body obstruction is indicated by a purple or lavender tongue. Purple tongues in dogs are a sign of poor circulation or dyspepsia. Dogs with this disease frequently show signs of;
- Pancreatitis
- diarrhea and gagging
- liver illness
- Rheumatoid bowel syndrome
- chemotherapy’s side effects
Black tongued dogs
Some dog breeds also have pink tongues with black spots all over them in addition to the dog’s blue tongue. There is no need to be alarmed because it is simply melanin producing black spots on the skin that resemble birthmarks.
Is a dog’s blue tongue curable?
If prompt action is done to increase blood flow in the dog’s body, cyanosis in dogs can be cured. A circulatory or respiratory issue may lead to the development of the dog blue tongue syndrome.
What shade is a Chow dog’s tongue?
Most dogs have delicate pink tongues that, when they lick us, feel like wet erasers. However, there are a few of canine breeds that don’t have the customary pink tongue. They have tongues that are dark blue or black instead. Typically, these canines are Chow Chows. Other dog breeds have been known to have dark spots on their tongues, which has sparked speculation that these canines may have some Chow DNA in them, however this isn’t always the case. Other canine breeds, including the Chinese Shar-pei, have tongues that are blue, black, or speckled. Extra pigmentation causes some of these dog breeds to have a varied tongue or gum color.
In truth, Chow Chow puppies are actually born with pink tongues. They don’t begin to change color until they are 8 to 10 weeks old. And some of these older Chows frequently lose some pigmentation in their tongues as they get older, which makes them return to a pinkish hue.
You might not, however, have a fully bred Chow Chow if your dog’s tongue doesn’t turn a darker shade or if it has some pink spots on its dark tongue. The Spitz family of dogs, which includes the following varieties with comparable traits, is where the Chow Chow breed of dog originally originates.
- Samoyed
- Russian Husky
- Malamute
- Akita
- Inu Shiba
- Pomeranian
- Icelandic Wolfhound
- Keeshond
There is one difference between all of these dogs and the Chow Chow, despite the fact that they all have several characteristics in common, like a similar body type, a dense coat, upright triangle-shaped ears, and a tail that curls over their back. The only dog whose tongue changes to a darker shade is the Chow Chow. However, there is a good chance that your Chow Chow is not purebred and is likely a mix of other Spitz dog breeds if it lacks a dark tongue or has pink spots.
While other dogs with dark spots or tongues may not necessarily be partially Chow Chows, a Chow Chow with pink in their tongue indicates that they are not genuine Chows. It just indicates that their skin has more pigmentation than usual. Breeds like the following are more likely to have additional pigmentation in their skin:
- Airedale
- a cattle dog from Australia
- Belgium Malinois
- Russian Black Terrier
- Bouvier of France
- Dalmatian
- Eurasier
- A Brazilian filter
- Theodore Setter
- Ken Kai
- Japanese Jindo
- Cur Mountain
- Rough Coated Ridgeback
- Sheriff of Shiloh
- Wheaten Terrier with a Soft Coat
- Ridgeback Thai
- Nepalese Mastiff
What do you make of the information on dogs’ dark-colored tongues? Did you already understand this knowledge? Or is this a novel idea? Inform us!
Do Chow Chows have black tongues?
The distinctive blue-black tongue of a Chow Chow is definitely something you’ve noticed if you’ve ever seen one. The breed standard for Chow Chows and Chinese Shar-Peis really stipulates that they must have a blue-black tongue. Moreover, these breeds are not the only ones that occasionally show tongues that aren’t pink. Contrary to common assumption, there are more than 30 canines with black spots on their tongues, but this does not necessarily mean that they are Chow Chow or Shar-Pei offspring.
According to the American Kennel Club, solid blue-black tongues are brought on by the same factor that causes speckled tongues, which is strong pigmentation, just like with Chow Chows, Chinese Shar-Peis, and a few other breeds. Typically, colored dots on your dog’s tongue are nothing to be concerned about. Similar to how a human may have freckles or birthmarks, these darker patches are most likely the product of microscopic melanin granules that appear as flat, pigmented areas on your dog’s tongue. There are six dog breeds known for having black tongues, which makes them even more distinctive than the many varieties that have been reported to exhibit spotted tongues.
The stately Chow Chow, one of the oldest breeds in existence, is most immediately identified by the mane-like ruff of hair that surrounds its head and shoulders. It is also known for its blue-black tongue. The Chow Chow’s characteristic blue-black tongue color has never been documented, but the American Kennel Club claims that it is still a necessity for recognizing purebreds.
The Chow Chow’s blue-black tongue sets it apart from other canines, although it actually has one canine breed in common with it: the Chinese Shar-Pei. The American Kennel Club claims that the Chow Chow and Shar-Pei undoubtedly have distant forebears in common because both breeds’ breed standards call for bluish-black colouring in the mouth and tongue.
The Miniature Shar-Pei has the same high-set ears, wrinkled face, and striking blue-black tongue as the Chinese Shar-Pei. According to Pet Guide, Mini-Peis have a similar background as Chinese Shar-Peis, with the exception that these tiny pups were purposefully bred to be smaller.
A mid-sized dog with a wedge-shaped head, triangular ears, and a thick double coat, the Eurasier is said to be a cross between a Wolf Spitz, a Chow Chow, and a Samoyed. Additionally, the Eurasier received a blue-black tongue from its Chow Chow ancestors.
The Vet Street claims that although they are clearly recognized for the ridge of hair on their back, Thai Ridgebacks are relatively infrequently seen outside of Thailand. Their tongues, which are either speckled or a solid blue-black color, akin to the Chow Chow and Shar-Pei, are another distinguishing characteristic.
Even more uncommon than the Thai Ridgeback, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is estimated to have fewer than a thousand individuals globally by Dog Zone. The Phu Quoc Ridgeback has characteristics with the Thai Ridgeback, including a distinctive fur ridge and a tongue that is colored.
Are Chow Chow dogs’ tongues blue?
Blue tongues are not innate in Chow Chows. In actuality, Chow Chow puppies share other breeds’ pink tongues. As their eyes open, the color changes to a blue-black hue. “According to Banghart, the tongue pigment must always be fully developed by the time the puppy is about six months old, even though the color change can occasionally be slower. “A Chow Chow with insufficient pigment is not allowed to compete in conformation dog shows and is not allowed to meet breed requirements.
What dog breed has blue tongues?
Many dog breeds have naturally occurring blue tongues or tongues with blue-black spots. The breeds that will be examined in this article are as follows:
- Pei Shar
- Howdy, Howdy
- English Shepherd
- Rottweiler
- Cross-country dog
The only two dog breeds having entirely blue tongues in every individual are the Shar-Pei and Chow Chow. Only a few members of the remaining breeds we’ll examine exhibit blue tongue coloring. These breeds’ individuals may either have a few blue spots or huge dark patches that make their entire tongues appear blue.
It used to be thought that other breeds with blue tongues had Chow Chow blood in their ancestry. This is untrue, though, as blue tongues can occur in pure breeds as well. Similar to human birthmarks, these are likely the result of excessive pigmentation in the particular dog. More details on each of the dog breeds with blue tongues are provided below.
Do Chow Chow tongues contain poison?
Identifying a Chow Chow is simple! These well-known dog breeds will never be confused with another breed because they have so many distinguishing qualities. With slightly aged faces and a magnificent lion’s-mane ruff, he was both gorgeous and intimidating. Most people are aware of their origins in Asia and that they have a tongue that is unusually blue in color, but there are still many intriguing mysteries to learn! Read on for ten interesting facts about Chow Chow dogs, including their less-than-legendary swimming abilities and renowned owners.
A Chow By Any Other Name:
The English used the term “Chow Chow” in the 18th century in a similar fashion to how we could use “knickknack” now. Any new or odd thing having Eastern roots was probably going to be given the title. originated in Mandarin Chinese “Cha is Arabic for mix or mingled. All items of clothing, furniture, food, etc. were referred to as coming from the East “Chan Chan. Importers just used the same moniker when the breed first arrived in England by ship.
And Two to Grow On:
A typical adult human has 32 teeth. Until you consider that 42 is typically the number of a man’s best friend, this number appears very amazing. The Chow Chow is distinguished by having two additional teeth when it is a puppy. These extras will be shed as the puppy reaches adulthood.
Most Prefer to Stay High and Dry:
Chows loathe water, which is a crucial feature that owners should be aware of! These canines didn’t labor on the riverbanks or shorelines, despite having a long history as working dogs in their home China. That’s because their distinctively fluffy “double coat,” which is one of their defining characteristics, proves to be dangerous in the water.
Think about donning a swimsuit and diving into a pool. Imagine doing that while donning a full outfit and an ankle-length fur coat, then diving into a pool! which you were unable to remove. A swimming Chow is weighed down by the double coat, which can result in drowning risks if neglected. Experts strongly advise taking a suitable-sized dog life vest if a Chow is planning to take a boat journey.
They Have Some Famous Fans:
Some breeds have an enduring connection to notable persons. Corgis owned by Queen Elizabeth, for instance. Sigmund Freud, the “Father of Psychology,” was one of the odd famous owners of Chows in the past. Yofi, the most well-known of Freud’s Chows, frequently observed his patient’s therapy sessions. He would even proceed to the door to indicate that the session had ended.
Other famous people who enjoy food include Martha Stewart, Clark Gable, and even President Calvin Coolidge. Famously, Walt Disney had a Chow that he gave to his wife Lilly when it was still a puppy. Sunnee, the puppy, was placed inside a hatbox and given to Lilly as a Christmas gift by Walt. Later, the sequence where Lady appears as a puppy on Christmas morning in the beloved Disney animated film Lady and the Tramp was inspired by her astonishment and joy.
A Dog That’s The Cat’s Meow:
Chows distinguish out among the most popular dog breeds for being distant and evasive. Instead of grabbing at their leashes to greet other dogs or racing to greet owners at the door. They tend to stand back and watch, somewhat like a cat might.
They are not as motivated by affection as some dogs. While they can and will enjoy a good scratch behind the ears, rewards may work better in encouraging desirable behavior and sociability. This also means that they make a great companion for potential pet owners looking for a pup with a strong sense of self and a gentle demeanor.
They’re Lone WolvesIn a Sense:
Some dogs have close relationships with just one person, choosing to spend the majority of their time with that fortunate person. This is a way of life for Chows! Because of their unwavering commitment, they have a reputation for being extremely protective. Likewise, the importance of socializing for this breed.
With Chow Chow puppies, experts advise beginning socializing as early as frequently as possible. Without proper training, they have a tendency to withdraw and develop mistrust of any strangers that come to the house. Dog owners should also exercise extreme caution when bringing a Chow into a home where there are other small animals, such as cats, as the breed was originally designed to be hunting dogs. Natural hunting tendencies may cause them to chase and harass anything smaller than they are, similar to introducing a bird dog into a house full of ducks.
They Have a Straight-Legged Gait:
The highly aesthetically fascinating gait of Chow Chows is one of its amusing facts. Naturally fluffy, with a curled tail that bobs, and of course with its distinctive “stilted gait.” Chows have straight, unbent back legs, unlike most breeds. They move with an almost ballerina-like grace when they walk. The effect is noteworthy when seen in a particularly fluffy rough-coated Chow. Additionally, this means that owners of older Chows must exercise extra caution in looking out for the symptoms of hip dysplasia.
They’re Not The New Kid in Town:
Chow Chows are believed to be one of the original breeds, in contrast to other breeds, which are descended from a small number of crossbreeds. This refers to purebred canines as their truest form, unmixed with anything else. According to some dog experts, the Chow is a direct descendant of the first hesitant human-canine steps taken when humans first started domesticating wolves and wild dogs.
The fluffy coat and inverted tail of the breed undoubtedly suggest wolflike traits. The Chow is undoubtedly a lupine breed, just like related breeds like the Samoyed and Malamute. Since the Han Dynasty of China in 206 B.C., and possibly even earlier, chows have been mentioned in historical accounts.
The Infamous Black-Blue Tongue:
Not to be overlooked is one of the most fascinating Chow Chow facts! The Chow’s mouth and tongue are a deep black-blue tint as opposed to the reddish-pink color of most dogs. The Shar-Pei, another Asia-derived breed, is the only other canine that possesses this strangely colored tongue feature. Although an apparent false urban superstition claims that Chow’s tongues are poisonous, the blue color is entirely safe! The Chow tongue’s similarity to the deadly Australian Death Adder snake, another blue-tongued animal that is genuinely poisonous, is the source of this urban legend.
A Coat of Many Colors:
Different from their typical red coat hue, Chow Chows also have a startling variety of other coat colors. They can also have coats that are deep black, “blue (a deep dove grey), cinnamon (a warm brown), or cream in color.
Additionally, the characteristics of their coats might be “rough with lots of volume and fluff” or “smooth with a more sleek appearance. Since they were originally extremely rare and only found in places like Tibetan Monasteries, Blue Chows are among the most prized and sought-after breeds. But the beauty comes at a cost. Rough-coated Chows should be brushed daily by their owners to avoid matting and excessive shedding. To keep your Chow free of tangles, try using specifically developed, dog-safe products like a natural leave-in conditioning spray for dogs!
The Fascinating Chow Chow: Caring For Your Unique Pooch
Chow Chows are a breed of dog that has a distinguished history and is distinguished by its beauty. They both have beautiful appearances, but they lack patient instruction and are very set in their ways. They function well as “only dogs in a household” since they are content to keep to themselves. This means that in order to promote favorable behaviors and temperaments, they need have extensive socialization. By bringing one of these canines into your house, you will give it a distinctive personality. It also denotes a magnificent fur coat! Therefore, prospective Chow owners would be wise to store up on adoration and a few lint rollers.
