If dogs have black gums, this is usually due to hereditary pigment spots. In individual cases, however, it can also be a symptom of dental problems, a lack of oxygen, inflammation of the gums or even a tumor.
As a rule, it is only a problem if the gums suddenly turn black and were not this color from birth.
However, since very few owners take a closer look at the inside of the mouth, many people are amazed at the first sight. Here's a quick overview:
CausesMost common symptomsPigment spotsExist since birth and do not changeLack of oxygenGums initially turn bluish and become increasingly black within a few monthsInflammation of the gumsGums are very red and black spots are only on the edge of a toothCyanosisThe entire mouth turns into a color combination of blue, gray and blackTooth problemsThe discoloration only occurs under the teeth Affected teeth due to tumor Black bumps form on the gums
Then let's take a closer look at the individual causes and their symptoms.
Are you worried or unsure? Then click here to start a live chat with a veterinarian.
#1 Pigment spots
Pigment spots arise when individual cells produce too much of the skin pigment melanin. In contrast to humans, this also occurs frequently in the mouths of dogs.
In the case of the two Chinese breeds “Chow-Chow” and “Shar-Pei”, the entire mouth, including the tongue and gums, is black. [1]
The cause of this is still unclear. It is assumed that a corresponding gene mutation occurred thousands of years ago.
What is striking here is that these types of pigment spots have been present since birth. But other breeds also get black spots on their gums more often:
- Dalmatian
- Pomeranian
- Labrador retrievers
- Newfoundland
- German shepherd dog
- Mastiff
- Golden retrievers
- Irish Red Setters [2]
In many cases, the top of the mouth is completely black. However, there is no reason to worry here. Because pigment spots are generally harmless.
Certain breeds and mixed breeds with these breeds are more likely to have black pigment spots on the gums, palate or tongue. Since it is just a concentration of melanin, these types of spots are considered harmless.
#2 Lack of oxygen
The only reason the gums are pink is because they are constantly supplied with oxygen-rich blood. However, various respiratory problems can reduce this intake. This includes:
If the lower respiratory tract becomes inflamed due to bacteria or viruses, oxygen absorption and the lungs also suffer. [3]
Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. But if there are too few of these, then it leads to a lack of oxygen supply.
At the beginning the gums are usually bluish. However, after several months it can turn completely black.
If the trachea is too weak and collapses, less oxygen automatically comes through when you breathe. Small breeds in particular are affected. [4]
If the pump in the chest cavity becomes inflamed, it also loses part of its function. Among other things, oxygen absorption also suffers.
Various breathing problems or even blood diseases can cause both the brain and the gums to receive too little oxygen. Black spots usually appear over a period of several months. Before this, the gums are rather bluish.
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#3 Inflammation of the gums
According to studies, inflammation of the gums is said to be the most common disease among all dogs. Around 9 out of 10 dogs are said to experience it by the time they are 2 years old. [5]
Depending on the stage, doctors differentiate between two different types:
- Gingivitis = inflammation of the gums (phase 1)
- Periodontitis = diseases of the periodontium (phase 2)
Gingivitis is most often caused by bacteria accumulating and multiplying in the mouth. Typical symptoms of this are:
- Strong bad breath
- Loose tooth
- Touch sensitivity
- Black gums around the tooth
- Severe redness
- Tooth discoloration
- Swollen gums [6]
For treatment, the teeth are usually professionally cleaned first. If it is a bacterial infection, antibiotics are often prescribed.
To prevent this, it is important to ensure appropriate dental care. Doctors recommend brushing your dog's teeth every day. Dental care toys can also help here.
Dogs with inflamed gums are more likely to develop visible tooth discoloration and black spots around their teeth. It can usually also be recognized by the fact that affected dogs smell strongly from their mouths and are sensitive to touch.
#4 Cyanosis
You've probably heard of “jaundice,” which causes the skin to turn yellow. Cyanosis is the counterpart in blue. It is therefore also called “blue addiction”.
The cause here is that too little oxygen is transported in the blood itself. Depending on the severity, the gums turn either blue or black.
Since the fur usually covers most of the skin, symptoms are often first noticed in the mouth. Because the tongue also becomes darker. Typical causes here are:
- Poisonings
- heart failure
- Internal injuries
- Breathing problems
- Internal inflammation
- Lung problems [7]
In some dogs, however, it is said to be due to genetics or even birth defects. Treatment here depends on the underlying cause.
If you suspect anything, you should consult the vet immediately. Because blue rash is often just a symptom of another illness. [8]
In dogs with cyanosis, the entire mouth area becomes darker over time. First the tongue and gums become bluish, then gray and finally almost black. A lack of oxygen supply is responsible for this.
#5 Dental problems
Since the teeth are also connected to the gums via the roots, this can also be the cause of the problem. The following problems in particular come into question here:
When a tooth breaks, chips or splits, it almost always causes severe pain. Affected dogs therefore often have problems eating.
It can usually be recognized by the fact that the dog chews on one side, drools heavily, refuses to eat and reacts sensitively to touch.
If left untreated, it can also cause blood to pool underneath the tooth. The black spots on the gums are small chambers filled with blood. [9]
When minerals crystallize on your teeth, a stone-like plaque can form. This usually causes the tooth to turn slightly yellow.
The problem? With excessive tartar, bacteria get stuck much more easily and can lead to inflammation. Brushing your teeth regularly can help here. [10]
Both tooth fractures and excessive tartar can cause problems in dogs. In both cases, small cysts can form under the affected teeth and fill with blood. It can be recognized by blue or even black spots on the gums.
#6 Tumor in mouth
In rare individual cases, the discoloration can also be due to cancer. Around one in 14 tumors in dogs develops in the mouth. [11]
As with most types of cancer, the cause is unclear. However, it is said to affect bitches less often and the following breeds even more often:
- Weimaraner
- German boxer
- German shepherd dog
- Golden retrievers
- Toy Poodle
- Gordon Setter
- Chow Chow [12]
It can usually be recognized by black bumps on the gums and a more pungent bad breath. Other typical signs are:
- Profuse drooling
- Blood in the mouth
- Problems chewing
- Constant swallowing
- Loose tooth
- Weird ulcer
- Dog refuses food
- Swollen gums [13]
An early diagnosis is the be-all and end-all here to prevent spreading. The tumor can then be removed surgically. Otherwise, radiation therapy is used.
A tumor in the mouth is not only reflected in the dog's behavior, but also visually. There is usually severe swelling, a visible ulcer and black spots on the gums. Bad breath and blood can also indicate this.
Less common causes:
- Chewed pens: Bored dogs are more likely to gnaw on pens that can color the inside of their mouth.
- Acanthosis nigricans: This rare skin disorder causes the skin to turn dark or even black in certain regions.
- Injuries: While any wounds are healing, the gums may temporarily turn dark red, bluish, gray or black.
- Eruption hematoma: Before a tooth falls out, small cysts sometimes develop that can fill with blood. [14]
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