Why Do Dogs Stick Out Their Tongues

We want to take a photo of our dog. It’s so pretty! We all think that about our pet. But always the same, every time we go to take a picture of him and he sees us, he opens his mouth and sticks out his tongue, breaking all the charm of the innocent and sweet look he had with his little mouth closed.

We can’t help but wonder: why are dogs always sticking out their tongues? There are several reasons, and it is that the canine tongue has different characteristics from ours.

Characteristics of the dog’s tongue

Unlike us, dogs use their tongues for more than just tasting flavors or drinking water. It has characteristics that help the animal in several of its physiological needs. For instance:

• Regulates its temperature. The tongue acts as a “radiator” in dogs. Their nostrils are not very extensive, so their tongue supplies their functions and also allows the animal to perspire or sweat through it. The humidity of your tongue in contact with the air, cools the blood flow regulating its temperature.
• Promotes blood flow. Have you noticed how the tongue of dogs grows when they are fatigued or tired? This is because the blood flows in higher levels through it, allowing the animal to recover more easily.
• Hygiene method. Dogs also use their tongue to clean certain parts of their body or wounds.
• Socialize. Yes, as you hear, it helps them to socialize. Dogs’ tongues are one of the most sensitive parts of their body, so licking another dog means trying to calm any unfriendly gesture, even before it arises. Let’s say it’s your way of getting your white scarf out before they need it.

For all these reasons, we know that dogs do not stick their tongues out for fun, but because there is something involved. Let’s see what.

Why do dogs stick out their tongues?

• Tiredness. When dogs are tired, the tongue concentrates more blood flow, so they must stick it out so that the flow can freely return to its place.
• Excitation. When a dog is excited, it may be difficult for him to breathe as his nostrils are extremely short, so sticking his tongue out will help him breathe more fluidly.
• Sed. If your throat and mouth become dry, it is normal for you to stick out your tongue trying to get it moistened when it comes into contact with the atmosphere.
• Pain. If the animal is in pain, it will not even have the strength to keep its muzzle closed and its tongue in place. This is why we sometimes see sick dogs with their “dead” tongues sticking out.

• Cold or hot. As we saw in the previous subtitle, the tongue is the canine radiator, so your dog will use it instinctively if he is cold or hot to regulate his temperature. If he gasps repeatedly, don’t panic, it’s a way to speed up the process.

These are some of the reasons why your dog sticks its tongue out. Of course, if you do not denote that there are any of these causes involved when your dog sticks its tongue out, and is also accompanied by deep and repetitive panting, it may be that there is something more serious involved.

In cases like that, it is best to go to the vet. It could be that your dog has a disease or virus that may cause a fever, or a bacteria that is hurting him inside and that we cannot recognize.

Humans and dogs are so similar in some things, but so different in others … Sometimes we can’t understand all the causes of what gestures they make. Therefore, as we always tell you, it is important that you observe your dog whenever you are with him. See if he has attitudes that he doesn’t normally have.

Sometimes dogs show through attitudes that something is not right. Don’t expect your dog to always yell if he’s upset, or to cry if something hurts.

Be attentive, be persistent and help your dog whenever he needs it.