Whether you’ve just brought home a new German Shepherd puppy or are worried about an old friend, you might wonder about the correct color of its gums. After all, if even the slightest thing seems off, it’s easy to become worried, so what color should a German Shepherd’s gums be?
A German Shepherd’s gums should be bubblegum pink, just like most other breeds. Yet, German Shepherds can have gums that are wholly or partially black. Gum color is genetically determined, but if you see changes, then pay attention. Some gum colors signal serious health problems and require a vet visit.
This article will explain why most dog owners don’t have to worry about some black on their dog’s gums. We’ll also tell you when to call the vet. Here’s what we’ll go over::
- What’s normal for dog gums in general, and German Shepherds in particular
- Some things to be careful about if your German Shepherd has black spots on their gums
- Which gum colors aren’t typical, and when to call a vet
Dogs Have Natural Differences In Gum Coloration
Before we dive into the subject of German Shepherds, it’s necessary to understand gum colors for dogs in general. This information is essential because this trait differs depending on the breed of dog, and the mixture of breeds in any dog can affect their appearance.
Pink Gums Are The Default
For most dogs, gums are bubblegum or cooked-shrimp pink. This color is approximately the same as healthy human gums, so it should be no surprise to the average owner.
Most of us naturally associate pink gums with good oral health. When people look at animals generally, they continue this association. And like people, when a dog’s gums are anything other than pink, we tend to worry.
Some Dogs Have Black Or Partially Black Gums
However, just as there are differences in dog fur colors, there are variations in gum color. While the pink part of your German Shepherd’s gums should always be that bubblegum shade, not all of their healthy gums may be pink.
German Shepherds are one of several breeds that are known for having patches of black on their gums. Some German Shepherds even have mostly black mouths.
Besides the German Shepherd, other dog breeds can have black gums. For instance, the Chow Chow is famous for this to the point that Chows without black gums are disqualified from being in dog shows. This trait is so renowned in Chows that some people think dogs with partially black gums have some Chow blood in them. However, this trait in Chows came from selective breeding and resulted from a more common genetic trait.
Black On The Gums Is Simply Coloration
When you think about it, humans have a similar trait to black spots on their gums. Freckles and moles alike are natural coloration differences in many humans, although freckles, in particular, tend to be associated with lighter skin. These colorations are known to be caused by concentrations of a pigment called melanin that’s in everybody’s skin.
In dogs, having black or speckled gums is also caused by more significant amounts of melanin in a particular area. Many dogs were born with black or speckled gums. However, the exact gum color can change over their lifetimes. Again, this is similar to the changes in a human’s freckles or moles.
Interestingly, this natural difference in coloration is relatively predictable. Dogs with dark-colored “points” such as a black nose are more likely to have black pigmentation on their gums. This is one of the reasons why German Shepherds so often have this trait.
All the standard colors of German Shepherds have black noses, a dark muzzle, and dark ears. Those dark spots on the gums are an extension of coloration.
Health Considerations With Black And Speckled Gums
While seeing black spots on your beloved German Shepherd’s gums is normal, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some of these will also apply if their gums are completely or mostly black, while others would be difficult to see in this case.
Melanoma
Dogs that have black spots should be monitored for signs of Melanoma. Melanoma is a kind of cancer that most people associate with the skin. However, in dogs, cancer can also develop inside of their mouths.
Melanoma occurs in cells called melanocytes, which are the ones that contain melanin. Strictly speaking, any such cells can become cancerous, but it’s a greater risk where there are larger concentrations.
Reduced Ability To See Systemic Problems
Another concern with black gums is that they don’t indicate other health problems as quickly. As we’ll explain below, the color of a dog’s gums can tell vets and owners a lot about their health.
When dogs have a lot of black on their gums, it can be harder to see changes. Fortunately, you can often rely on the pink part of your German Shepherd’s gums for these observations. Alternatively, other indicators in their mouths can help vets determine if your dog is healthy.
Black Gums Can Hide Gum Disease
Finally, keep in mind that black gums can sometimes indicate your buddy has gum disease or an infected tooth. If your German Shepherd has always had black gums, then the color alone doesn’t mean anything.
However, if they have bad breath or an incredibly dark spot on their gums, it can indicate poor oral health. Here, it’s the changes you need to watch rather than the color itself.
When To Call A Vet For A German Shepherd’s Gums
No matter how much or how little black spotting is on your German Shepherd’s gums, some situations require an expert opinion. Changes in gum color overall or differences in the dark spots are clear indications to call your vet. Here are some things to look out for:
The Black Spots Are Changing
While the black spots on a German Shepherd’s gums can naturally change over time, specific changes are red flags. In particular, black spots that rapidly change shape or size or become raised call for a vet visit. It could be a sign of their developing Melanoma.
Your German Shepherd Has Pale Gums
Another thing to watch out for is pale gums. Because German Shepherds do have some difference in coloration, we’re talking about situations where the pink part is lighter than usual. This color change is a severe situation.
Your dog could be anemic from a parasite, organ issues, or injury. They might also have become dehydrated from playing outside for too long. In either case, call your vet right away. You might need to take them to the after-hours emergency vet if your regular one isn’t open.
Gums Are Turning Blue Or Red
Blue gums and red gums are also serious warning signs. In the case of blue gums, your German Shepherd probably isn’t getting enough oxygen in their blood. A shortage of oxygen can be due to several breathing issues, but only a vet can diagnose them. Similarly, red gums indicate possible infections or poisoning. Here, time is also of the essence.
Before calling the vet, look around to see if there’s evidence your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t. This information can help the vet decide on a course of treatment.
Final Thoughts
Your German Shepherd’s gums could come in two colors: pink and black. Pink gums are the most common color for dogs, but many breeds also have black spots. These are natural, just like the freckles on a human’s face.
Nonetheless, there are concerning situations you should be aware of:
- Gauging the health of your dog from gum color is more difficult with black or primarily black gums.
- Be aware of changes in your dog’s black patches over time.
- Pale/white, blue, and red gums are medical emergencies.