Why Does My Yorkie Puppy Stick Its Tongue Out?

Although all dogs stick it out their tongues for various natural reasons, such as a means of staying cool, it seems that Yorkshire terriers let their tongues hang out more often than other breeds. While this may be normal, if you notice your Yorkie is always hanging its tongue out or if the dog seems unable to completely retract its tongue, it may be an indication of something more serious, such as hanging tongue syndrome.

  1. What Is It?

    • Hanging tongue syndrome is a condition that can be caused for many reasons, such as an injury or trauma to the jaw or muzzle, a neurological problem, or an anatomical malformation that prevents the dog from pulling its tongue back into its mouth. Normally a dog sits with its tongue hanging it out to stay cool, but eventually it pulls back its tongue to swallow and moisten the surface. A dog with hanging tongue syndrome is unable to retract its tongue completely.

    Symptoms

    • Dogs with hanging tongue syndrome are excessive droolers, especially after eating or drinking. Also, as is made explicit by the name, dogs with this condition are always sticking out their tongues. If you notice any slight changes in the color of the tongue's skin, the texture of the tissue or if there is any bleeding or swelling of the tongue, take the dog to the vet immediately, as this can indicate a bacterial infection in the area.

    Effects

    • Since the tongue is always sticking out, it can end up dry and cracked, which can be painful. It can be similar to the effect people get when their lips are dry and chapped. Hanging tongue syndrome is usually seen more often in smaller breeds, such as Chihuahuas, King Charles spaniels, Yorkshire terriers and Mexican hairless dogs, but larger breeds can be affected as well.

    In Cold Weather

    • Dogs with hanging tongue syndrome are at much higher risk for frostbite or other damage to the tissues of the tongue due to cold temperatures. Monitor your dog when it is outside, especially if the temperatures are extremely cold. Avoid leaving the dog outside for prolonged periods of time. If the tongue gets frostbitten, surgical removal of the tip may be required to prevent further damage to the tongue.