Healthy Dog Gums vs Unhealthy The easiest way to remember the difference between healthy and unhealthy gums is this: Healthy gums are pink, moist, and firm, while unhealthy gums show drastic color changes, dryness, or swelling. Your dog's gums can tell you a lot about their dental health and other important signs of their wellbeing. Learn the differences between healthy and unhealthy dog gums.
Can your dog's gum color tell you if there's something wrong with their health? What color should they be? Find out what to check for and when to call the vet. Your dog's gums can be a good indicator of their overall health. Consult our dog gum color chart to learn what different shades could mean.
In this vet-approved guide, you'll learn what healthy and unhealthy gums look like so you can recognize any signs of potential illnesses or medical conditions early on. Periodontal Disease Color Chart Healthy Dog Gums Vs Unhealthy Periodontal disease is a common issue that affects many dogs, and one of the key indicators of this condition is the color of their gums. Healthy dog gums should be a nice pink color, while unhealthy gums may appear red, inflamed, or even have a bluish tint.
1. Healthy Dog Gums 🟩 Normal gums are bubble‑gum or salmon‑pink, moist, smooth, and firm. Some breeds-for instance, Labradors or Dalmatians-may have pigmented or spotted gums, which is still normal if the texture and hydration are good.
Check capillary refill time (CRT): press gently on a gum spot until it blanches white, then release. Learn about the difference between healthy vs unhealthy dog gums, the ideal gum color, and how to help your dog maintain healthy gums. The pink of healthy gums is often described as light, powdery, bubblegum, or the color of cooked shrimp.
If your dog's gums are naturally black, dark, or heavily pigmented, color changes will be harder to detect. The gums should briefly turn white and then return to their normal pink color once you remove your finger. Check for Moisture: Healthy gums should be moist, not dry or sticky.
Dry gums could signal dehydration or other issues. Healthy vs Unhealthy Dog Gum Color Chart: Identifying Health Issues Certainly!