Dog Oral Ulcers: Not Just Heat, Other Causes Involved

It's no secret that many dogs are voracious eaters, often sneaking into their owner's food stash. However, dogs that consume human food can easily suffer from heatrelated issues, leading to painful mouth ulcers. Dogs are also incredibly resilient to pain, which means that when they do develop mouth ulcers, their owners might not notice until the condition has become quite severe. Moreover, dog mouth ulcers are not as straightforward as ours; they can sometimes be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Therefore, if you spot any signs of mouth ulcers in your furry friend, it's best to take them to the vet for a thorough examination to pinpoint the cause and tailor the treatment accordingly.

What are the signs of dog mouth ulcers?

1. Trauma to Teeth and Gums

Physical injuries to a dog's teeth or gums are common causes of mouth ulcers. Such injuries often result in mucosal damage and inflammation. This could be due to cuts from sharp objects, like bones or fish bones, or even from a fight with another animal, where the dog might bite its tongue, lips, or other areas.

2. Facial Skin Folds

Dogs like Bulldogs often have natural skin folds on their faces, which can sometimes irritate the oral mucosa and lead to ulcers. While this is not a common occurrence, it's something to be aware of.

3. Papillomas

Papillomas, caused by the papillomavirus, are often found on a dog's lips, mouth, and face. This condition is more common in young dogs under two years old, as their immune systems are not fully developed. While most papillomas are benign, they are contagious, so it's important to isolate your pet. Benign papillomas often resolve on their own.

4. Gingival Hyperplasia

Mouth ulcers in dogs can also be a result of overgrowth of gum tissue, forming small, white tumors. These tumors are usually benign, but it's still advisable to have your dog checked by a vet to rule out cancerous changes.

5. Kidney Disease

Dogs with kidney disease, particularly those with latestage kidney failure, can also develop mouth ulcers.

6. Autoimmune Diseases

A condition known as pemphigus, an autoimmune disease, can cause mouth ulcers in dogs. This disease can manifest in multiple areas of the body, leading to blisters, sores, and ulcers. Besides mouth ulcers, pemphigus can cause fever, depression, loss of appetite, and itchy, painful skin, which may also lead to bacterial infections.

These are just some of the reasons why dogs might develop mouth ulcers. But take heart, owners; most cases are due to oral trauma. Dr. Oxygen Pet shares these insights to remind you not to overlook the symptoms of your dog's mouth ulcers. If you notice any, it's best to have your beloved pet examined by a vet to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.