One of the most characteristic gestures of dogs is stick out the tongue. This gesture, which may seem merely anecdotal or funny, is loaded with meaning and physiological reasons. For years, studies have been carried out to understand this behavior, which we now know is deeply linked to the thermoregulation of their body. However, this is only part of the explanation. Below, we will explore in detail the many reasons why dogs stick out their tongues and what we should look out for in our furry companion.
Thermoregulation: The key role of the tongue
A dog's tongue is his main tool to regulate the temperature body. Unlike humans, dogs have a limited number of sweat glands, which are located mainly on the pads of their paws. Therefore, when temperatures rise or after intense physical activity, dogs gasp and they stick out their tongue like natural response to cool your body.
By panting, the dog accelerates its breathing rate, allowing air to pass over the moist surface of the tongue. This process facilitates evaporation saliva, which in turn reduces body temperature. In addition, the blood vessels in the tongue dilate, increasing the warm blood flow towards it, and at the same time, helping to dissipate heat into the environment.
However, this method is not as efficient as the sweating in humans. For this reason, dogs are more likely to suffer heat hits, especially on hot summer days. It is crucial to provide them with fresh water, keep them in cool places and avoid exercise during the hottest hours of the day.
Emotional and behavioral reasons
It's not just the heat that makes a dog stick out its tongue. Emotional factors Anxiety, fear, and joy can also trigger this behavior. For example, a dog that is feeling happy or relaxed may naturally stick out his tongue while enjoying your company or being in a comfortable environment.
On the contrary, in situations of Stress, such as a visit to the vet or loud noises, some dogs tend to pant more frequently, showing their tongue more often as a result of nervousness. While in most cases this behavior is temporary, it is important to be aware of other signs of discomfort that may require consultation with a veterinarian.
Health problems associated with the tongue
Although in most cases sticking out your tongue is a normal action, doing so constantly or excessively could be related with health problems. Some of the possible problems include:
- Respiratory disorders: Brachycephalic breeds such as Bulldogs or Pugs have breathing difficulties due to their anatomy, which can lead to excessive panting and frequent tongue sticking out.
- Oral problems: Dental disease or tooth loss may prevent a dog from keeping its tongue in its mouth.
- Heatstroke: If a dog is panting excessively in high temperatures, he or she may be suffering from heat stroke, a potentially dangerous situation.
- Neurological or cardiovascular problems: These cases may manifest themselves through unusual panting and a constantly protruding tongue. If any abnormal symptoms appear, it is vital to go to the vet.
Care and prevention
To ensure your dog's well-being, it is essential to take certain measures:
- Hydration: Make sure your dog has constant access to fresh water, especially during hot days.
- Cool Environments: Provide a shaded area and avoid taking your dog out during the hottest hours.
- Veterinary review: If tongue-thrusting behavior is unusual, consult a specialist to rule out health problems.
Knowing these reasons behind one of the most common gestures in dogs allows us to better understand their needs and ensure their well-being. Maintaining the balance between the physical and emotional care of our pet is a responsibility that we must assume with dedication and love.