Has your dog died suddenly with its tongue out? If so, you may be looking for some answers. Most notably, why has this happened?
Dogs are a man’s best friend. They provide unconditional love, teach us valuable lessons, and can be our greatest companions in hard times. That’s why it’s so heartbreaking when a dog dies suddenly.
While it’s impossible to know the exact reason why your dog died with its tongue out, there are several possible explanations. This article will provide insight into the medical and environmental factors that could have led to your dog’s death.
Before you scroll down to a more in-depth answer of this guide, check out these other dog-related guides from our team at We Love Doodles: Why Do Dogs Walk in Circles Before They Die? and What Does It Mean When Your Dog’s Burp Smells Like Poop?.
What Does it Mean When a Dog Dies With its Tongue Out?
People have different beliefs as to what it means when a dog dies suddenly with its tongue out.
Some people feel it is a sign of a peaceful death, as the dog can let go of its tongue and relax in its final moments. Meanwhile, others say it is a sign of a painful death, as the dog’s tongue sticks out due to spasms as it dies.
However, there is a simpler explanation. There is no scientific way to know whether the dog’s death was painful by this fact alone. The tongue is a muscle, and, like other muscles in the body, it relaxes when a dog dies. This relaxation could cause the tongue to fall out of a dog’s mouth.
The tongue protruding could also mean the dog was panting excessively before it died. Another possible explanation that your dog died suddenly with its tongue out is that it was suffering from an illness or other injury.
What Happens When a Dog is Near Death?
When a dog is near death, it usually experiences certain physical and emotional changes. Identifying these changes is important, as it can help you recognize when your dog is close to death and prepare yourself for the inevitable.
Here are some of the signs that may indicate your dog is near death.
Drop in Body Temperature
The average body temperature for a dog is between 100.5°F and 102.5°F. If your dog’s body temperature drops below this range, it could be a sign that it is in its final stages of life.
Body temperature is a crucial indicator of a dog’s health, so if you suspect your dog is close to death, it’s important to measure its temperature using a thermometer. If the temperature is lower than the normal range, it could indicate that your dog is nearing the end. It also may be a sign of hypothermia, so check for symptoms.
Loss of Interest in Food and Water
When a dog is near death, it may lose its appetite or become uninterested in eating and drinking. If this happens, it’s important to make sure the dog still has access to food and water, as dehydration can speed up the dying process.
Not eating or drinking for prolonged periods of time can also cause the dog to become weak and lethargic. If you notice this happening, bring your dog to the vet right away.
Weight Loss
Weight loss is often an indicator that a dog is close to death, as its body stops breaking down and processing food in the same way as before.
Your healthy dog has an ideal body weight. If your pup weighs in at less than this, it could be a sign that the dog is near death. You should take your dog to the veterinarian for any sudden weight loss or gain.
Difficulty Breathing
When a dog is close to death, it may start experiencing difficulty breathing due to the weakening of its respiratory system. This is especially true if the dog has an underlying medical condition, such as heart disease or cancer.
If you notice your dog struggling to breathe or panting heavily, you should take him to a vet for an evaluation.
Loss of Coordination
A dog may become weak or have difficulty coordinating its movements when it is close to death. For example, a dog may stumble or seem weak in its hind legs. It may also have difficulty walking in a straight line. If you’ve begun to notice changes in your pup’s mobility, keep eyes on him! If the condition worsens, it’s best to contact your veterinarian to determine the next steps.
Dogs can also lose control of their bladder and bowels as a result of weakening muscles.
What Are the Signs of a Dog’s Body Shutting Down?
Before death, a dog’s body will start to shut down. This process can be difficult to watch and may cause a dog to experience certain physical and emotional symptoms.
There are certain signs that indicate a dog’s body is shutting down. Some of these signs may include the following.
Loss of Appetite
One of the most common signs that a dog is experiencing the shutdown process is a loss of appetite. Dogs are normally very eager to eat, happy to consume anything from kibble to treats. If your dog is no longer interested in food, it could be a sign that its body is starting to shut down.
While a loss of appetite doesn’t necessarily mean that the dog is close to death, it could be a sign of underlying health issues. You can try a few “remedies,” such as changing his food or changing his feeding frequency. But if the problem persists, see a vet.
Lack of Energy
Dogs are usually full of energy and always ready to play. You can see this in their eagerness to go outdoors, chase toys, or run around the house.
However, when a dog’s body is in the process of shutting down, it may become lethargic and less interested in playing, running, or doing activities that it used to enjoy. Although this may be due to age and fatigue, note whether this behavior is sudden or out of the ordinary.
Decreased Mobility
Mobility is a crucial part of a dog’s life. When its body starts to shut down, your dog may experience difficulty walking or standing. This could be due to weakening muscles or be a sign of an underlying health issue.
If your dog loves to go for walks but suddenly has trouble walking, it may be a sign that his body is shutting down. Or, if your pup was always eager to run around the house but struggles to do it now, it could also be a sign of physical decline.
No Bowel Control
A healthy dog typically has control over its bladder and bowel movements. If you potty train a dog from a young age, it will learn to hold it in until it’s taken outdoors or in its set spot at home.
However, when a dog’s body starts to shut down, it may be unable to control these functions. Your dog may also start vomiting incessantly or having more frequent bowel movements if its body is shutting down.
Seizures
Seizures can signify many things, but they can also be a sign that a dog’s body is shutting down. If your dog starts to experience seizures or abnormal movements, it may be time to consult a veterinarian and discuss end-of-life options.
If your dog is particularly old or sick and exhibits some of these signs, its body may be shutting down. Make sure to take the time to discuss these signs with a vet. They can provide the best advice and guidance on handling the situation.
Tips to Lower Your Dog’s Risk of Dying Suddenly
Whether you’ve just adopted a dog or had one for years, you can never be too sure about its health. Here are some tips to help lower your dog’s risk of dying suddenly:
1. Get Regular Checkups
Make sure to take your dog to the veterinarian for regular checkups. Doing this will help ensure their health is monitored and potential health problems are detected earlier.
Most veterinarians recommend bringing your dog in for a checkup every six months to a year, depending on its age and health. However, if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s behavior or health, it’s best to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
2. Watch Their Weight
Obesity can put a strain on dogs’ hearts and other organs, making them more vulnerable to health problems. By watching and controlling your dog’s weight, you can help lower its risk of developing severe health issues.
The ideal weight for each dog breed may vary, but it’s usually best to stay lean rather than be overweight. Ask your vet what an ideal weight for your dog looks like, and keep an eye on it to maintain it.
3. Give Your Dog Exercise
Regular exercise helps keep your dog’s heart and lungs healthy and can prevent obesity. Additionally, it keeps your pup’s brain healthy, as exercise helps stimulate blood flow to the brain.
Make sure to give your dog plenty of exercise every day. Take it for walks, play fetch, or go for a swim together. This will help keep their body healthy and reduce their risk of dying suddenly.
4. Don’t Let Your Dog Get Too Stressed
Stress can harm a dog’s health, weakening its immune system and ultimately causing it to be more vulnerable to health problems. Just like humans, dogs need to be able to relax and destress in order to stay healthy.
Make sure your dog has a comfortable and stress-free environment where they can feel safe and content. Keep the noise levels low, give them time to themselves, and give them plenty of cuddles and love.
5. Do Not Smoke Around Your Dog
Second-hand smoke is just as harmful to dogs as it is to humans, and it can cause several health problems.
If you are a smoker, don’t smoke around your dog. This will reduce their risk of developing severe health issues that may be life-threatening.
6. Keep Your Pup’s Environment Clean
Cleanliness is key when it comes to dog health. Make sure to regularly clean your dog’s living space and give it fresh food and water.
Regular cleaning will help reduce your dog’s exposure to potential health hazards and keep its immune system strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several reasons why your dog’s tongue was out when it died. However, it’s most likely that your dog’s tongue fell out of its mouth as its muscles relaxed after its death.
Most dogs die suddenly as a result of illness or injury. Your dog may have appeared healthy, but it’s more likely that your dog had an undetected underlying health condition.
If your dog is still alive and its tongue has started hanging out of its mouth, it usually means it has a dental issue. It could also signify some other illness. You should bring your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible to learn the cause and find a solution.
Dog Died Suddenly With Tongue Out: The After
If your dog died suddenly with its tongue out, you should understand that there are many possible causes. Most likely, your dog’s muscles all relaxed as it died, and its tongue fell out of its mouth as this happened. If you want a specific answer, you should take your dog’s body to the veterinarian for an evaluation.
If you are concerned about your dog’s health, follow our guide to reduce its chances of dying suddenly. Take your dog to the veterinarian if you notice anything abnormal.
Finally, we are truly sorry that your dog died suddenly with its tongue out. Please remember to take care of yourself in this time of grieving.
If you find this guide, “Dog Died Suddenly With Tongue Out: What Does It Mean,” helpful, you can check out these other dog-related guides from our team:
- Mucus in Dog Urine: What Does This Mean?
- Dog Barking in Sleep – What Does This Mean?
- Dog Poop Encased in Membrane – What Does This Mean?
You can learn more about signs that your dog is dying by watching “10 Critical Signs that Indicates Your Dog is Dying” down below:
Dr. Sabrina Kong graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in England in 2016 and has been working at a small animal clinic in Northern California since then. She grew up in the Bay Area and got her bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. She also became a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner through a program at the University of Tennessee.
When she isn’t in the clinic taking care of her four-legged patients, she enjoys traveling and trying new foods with her friends and her three-legged dog, Apollo. She adopted Apollo from her clinic when he was a puppy with numerous health issues. Dr. Kong truly cares about taking care of animals.