Most of our furry friends usually have pink tongues.
However, there are various breeds of dogs that have purple tongues.
It is an unusual characteristic, so if you are a newbie dog owner, do not panic or run to the vet when you see your dog’s purple tongue!
Some of the dogs with purple tongues are the Chow-Chow, Shar-Pei, Pomeranian, Rottweiler, and more. These dogs have typical purple tongues, which makes them stand out from the rest.
In today’s article, we will be sharing with you seven dog breeds with purple tongues so that the next time you see a species with this trait, you will not be surprised!
Top Seven Breeds with Purple Tongues
Here are seven breeds that surprisingly have purple tongues:
1. Chow Chow
The first on the list of 7 dogs breeds with purple tongues is the Chow Chow.
The Chow Chow breed is part of the spitz dog family and resembles a bear or a lion.
Chow Chows typically have low energy, and even though they do not need much exercise or physical activity, they still need an owner who would understand their temperaments.
A Chow Chow’s purple tongue is one of its most distinct characteristics.
Their tongues may display a few pink spots or a solid blue altogether.
Usually, Chow Chows are born with pink tongues, but their tongue changes to purple when they reach 8 to 10 weeks old.
It is why there are some pink spots left as their tongue’s color changes, or it may fully make the transition from pink to blue.
2. Shar-Pei
Next on the list is the Shar-Pei. It is a Chinese breed with a purple tongue and wrinkles almost all over its body.
As a matter of fact, Shar-Peis have the greatest number of wrinkles among the dog breeds in the world!
This breed typically comes in 3 coat types: brush coat, bear coat, and horse coat.
The horse and brush coats are harsher than the dense and fluffy bear coat, like a Chow Chow.
Ideally, a Shar-Peis tongue has a blue-black shade.
However, those with light coat colors have lighter tongues, resulting in a solid purple to lavender color.
Shar-Peis were traditionally for dogfighting in China, so they tend to be a bit aggressive, stubborn but intelligent at the same time.
All it takes is proper training to groom them properly while they are young.
3. Pomeranian
Poms are typically perky, friendly, and are always on alert, which is why if you are to have any problems with them, it would be due to their excessive barking.
It is rare for Pomeranians to have purple tongues, but those born with this characteristic usually exhibit a dark purple tinge rather than a solid purple one.
Poms are perfect for dealing with children, but you must remember that they may not be as sturdy as the larger dog breeds.
So it would be better to pay attention every time they play with your kids.
4. Rottweiler
Rottweilers make fantastic guard dogs.
If you want to ensure that your home is safe against intruders, it is best to put this furry friend on duty.
Rottweilers do not typically have purple tongues when it comes to the appearance of their tongues, but most of them have pink tongues with a few splotches of black or purple.
5. German Shepherd
German Shepherds having purple tongues is rare, but this is not an uncommon trait among them.
Usually, their tongues would have a few dark purple splotches caused by pigment concentration in those particular areas.
It is mainly harmless if your German Shepherd was born with it.
However, if this pigmentation has formed later in your pet’s life, it would be best to schedule a consultation with your vet as this may be a health concern.
6. Akita
Akitas resemble skinny Chow Chows, so it is not surprising at all to find out that they too have purple-spotted tongues.
Like in German Shepherds, having completely solid purple tongues is rare, but those with splotches of purple are not unusual.
Akitas are very loving and affectionate when it comes to their owners but are not too trusting when dealing with strangers.
If you are ready to receive hugs and kisses from your furry pet, then you definitely should go for an Akita!
7. Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are still primitive breeds that most likely descended from Tibetan wolves.
Initially, these breeds were guard dogs for properties and livestock, and they may still perform that role up to now, but this breed has learned to enjoy life and assumed the role of family companions.
These large canines typically have dark purple splotches on their tongue, and on rare occasions, have solid purple tongues.
The dark spots on their tongues tend to stand out, and you will surely notice it the first instance you take a look at them!
Key Takeaway
Most dog breeds with purple tongues are normal and acceptable only if they had this trait with them ever since they were born.
However, if you notice that your dog’s previously pink tongue is slowly turning purple or has any uncommon discoloration, it would be best to immediately schedule a consultation with the vet.
It might be a serious health concern that needs addressing directly.
Otherwise, your dog having a purple tongue since birth is normal.
These breeds would love you just as much as your pink-tongued furry friends would! However, a word of caution — dogs who have purple tongues seem to be more prone to having doggy breath, so be prepared!
Having some dental sticks around might come in handy, especially if your dog is being “extra affectionate” and starts licking your face up and down!
You may also consult your vet and ask for advice on how you can make your dog’s breath smell better.
Remember — be a responsible pet owner.