Has your dog been caught sleeping with their tongue sticking out?
It’s a pretty common sight, but why do dogs sleep this way? There are actually several reasons why dogs stick their tongues out when they sleep, and we’re here to discuss them!
Keep reading to learn more about why your puppy sleeps with their tongue out.
Contents
8 Reasons Why A Dog Is Sleeping With Tongue Out
1. Sticking Their Tongue Out Helps them Breathe
Dogs breathe through their nose and mouth, so why do they stick their tongues out when they sleep? Sticking your tongue out actually helps you breathe easier! When dogs sleep with their mouths closed, it interferes with the process of breathing. If your dog’s mouth is closed, it can often make breathing harder for them.
2. Sticking Their Tongue Out Helps Keep Them Cool
If your dog sticks their tongue out while they sleep, it means that they’re trying to cool themselves down! Dogs have a very limited ability to sweat, so they rely on panting and sticking their tongue out to cool themselves down.
Sticking their tongue out allows them to take in more air, which helps them to cool down. It’s also a great way for them to get any excess saliva off of their tongue! You can help them even further by making sure they get enough to drink.
3. They’re Uncomfortable
One of the reasons why your dog might be sticking their tongue out is because they’re feeling uneasy. Maybe they aren’t fully comfortable with where you’ve put them to sleep, or maybe something else is bothering them.
If you notice that your dog has been sticking their tongue out for an extended period of time, you might want to check their environment to make sure that they’re not feeling too hot or too cold – and are they comfy?
4.Sticking Their Tongue Out Means They’re Happy
Dogs will stick their tongues out when they are happy! If your dog is sticking their tongue out while you give them head scratches, or while you snuggle up with them, it means that they feel safe and happy.
On the other hand, if your dog is sticking their tongue out when they aren’t feeling comfortable in their environment, this could indicate that something is wrong. This can be a sign of distress, so keep an eye on your pup to make sure they’re okay.
5. They Feel Relaxed
Another reason why dogs stick their tongues out while they sleep is because they feel completely at ease. Maybe the environment in which they are sleeping is very comfortable, or maybe they are snuggling with a stuffed animal.
In many cases, dogs will feel comfortable enough to fall asleep with their tongue sticking out. In most cases, this means that your pup is incredibly relaxed! It’s a good idea for you to take note of the environment in which your dog falls asleep, and see if their comfort levels could be improved.
6. Their Tongue Gets Stuck
If you notice that your dog’s tongue is sticking out while they sleep, this could indicate that something might be wrong! If it seems like the tongue won’t go back into their mouth, try gently pushing it back in.
If your dog’s tongue won’t go back into their mouth despite your efforts, it means that they need to see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
7. Missing Teeth
Dogs with missing teeth might sleep with their tongue sticking out. Dogs that have recently lost a tooth might stick their tongues out when they try to eat or drink, too!
If your dog frequently sleeps with their tongue sticking out, and they also tend to lose teeth often, be sure to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.
Your vet might need to take x-rays of your pup’s mouth, or provide them with pain medication so that they can sleep and eat comfortably again.
8. Genetic
Some dogs are more likely to sleep with their tongues sticking out than others! Dogs that have very large tongues or floppy tongues, like Bulldogs and pugs , might be more inclined to stick their tongues out while they sleep.
If you’ve noticed your dog sleeping with their tongue sticking out, it might be a genetic issue.
Final words
So the answer to the question of “Why does my dog stick his tongue out”?
So there you have it – eight reasons why your dog may be sleeping with his tongue sticking out. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact your veterinarian.
