When your black lab is eating, you might have noticed black gums. And if you have noticed that you might be wondering why my black Labs gums black and not pink. It is normal for black Labs to have black gums. Some may have pink gums. And that is totally normal. But what if your blackie pie have purple or white gums? Is it life threatening or just normal colour? We will find out in this blog.
Do black Labs have black gums?
Yes, it is normal for black Labs to have black gums. These gums share colour with the black coat colour. This is due to dark pigmentation, and it is natural.
What colour should my black Labs gums be?
Black Labs’ gums are most of the times black in colour. But other times their gums are seen light pink. Light pink is also considered natural. Both the colours are normal and considered safe. But if you see your Labs’ gums colour white, purple, blue, or bright red, then go to the vet ASAP.
How to get rid of black gums on dogs?
Some breeds such as black Labrador, Pitbull and chow chow has black gums naturally. If you are skeptical that your dog’s gums colour is changing to black, there are spots, ulcers, some swellings or foul odour then these can be signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease, oral tumour or growth, fungal or bacterial infections and injury in mouth. This requires immediate medical checkup.
Some people, to get rid of black gums on dogs, try bleaching or lightening pigmentation on their dogs’ gums. This can really harm the dog’s mouth.
At last, I would like to say that if your dog has black gums and shows no signs of illness or disease, then it’s nothing to be worried about. Instead, it is the part of their looks. But if he is showing symptoms of illness like bad breath, bleeding gums, then go visit the vet ASAP.
Dog breeds with black gums
Chow Chow
Shar Pei
Newfoundland
Rottweiler
German Shepherd
Akita Inu
Pomeranian (black or blue coats)
Labrador retriever (mostly black Labradors)
Belgian Malinois or Belgian Shepherd
Dalmatian
Pitbull
What is a bad gum colour for dogs?
Mostly, light pink and sometimes black gums are completely normal. But some may have purple or white colours of gums which are not considered normal. So let us see which colours are not normal and why:
- Pale or White gums: It may mean anaemia, shock or internal bleeding, or poor circulation or blood loss.
- Blue, Purple or Greyish gums (Cyanosis): These gum colours may mean lack of oxygen, difficult breathing, or heart or lung problems.
- Bright red or Inflamed gums: These gum colour may mean periodontal disease or gingivitis, heat stroke or fever, or infection or inflammation.
- Yellow gums: This is a serious colour of gums and it may mean liver disease or jaundice.
How to tell if a dog with black gums is dehydrated?
If your dog has black gums, telling if he is dehydrated or not, by seeing the gums is nearly impossible. But some physical signs and tests could tell you if your dog is dehydrated or not:
- Check gum moisture: If your dog is hydrated, his gums must feel moist and slick. If it feels dry, sticky or tacky, it must be because of dehydration. To do this, just gently roll your fingers a long your dog’s gum.
- Capillary refill: For this, take a lighter spot, like the inner lip or edge of the gumline. Gently press down the area with your fingers until it lightens. Once lighten, release the pressure and observe. If the area becomes pink again within 1 or 2 seconds, then he is hydrated. If it takes more than 2 seconds, it may probably be due to dehydration or poor circulation.
- Pinch test: This test is also common for checking if a dog is hydrated. For this, gently pinch skin on the back of dogs’ neck or the skin between the shoulders. Release the skin. If it instantly snaps back in place, then your little shark is hydrated and if it takes time to go back in place or remains tented, then he is surely dehydrated.
- Look out for other signs: Check other dehydration signs such as vomiting, lethargy or weakness, sunken eyes, panting excessively without exercise, dry nose and reduced appetite.
Conclusion
Black Labs have black gums, and it is totally normal. Some also may have light pink gums. But if your lab has purple, blue, grey, bright red, yellow or pain gums, then it is a sign to go to the vet as soon as possible. All these gum colours are life threatening. Overall, maintaining a good oral health is a must for Labradors to lead happy and healthy life.
If you have another enquiry the comment box is down. Stay tuned for more such articles. Bye and have a nice day!