Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why does my dog's tongue stick out one side, making drinking hard?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 7 months and 12 days old

He can only stick his tongue out one side it makes it hard for him to drink he can stick his tongue out of the middle of his mouth or the other side only the left side I've checked his mouth and it seems normal people what might be going on with his tongue

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on May 13th, 2017

Usually when a dog can only stick his tongue to one side it's either a structural problem of the mouth cavity or a neurological problem (in the brain), i would recommend taking him to the vet in order to have this issue checked, i'm not sure there will be a solution for this problem though.

Vote icon

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 11th, 2017

    This may be due to abnormal position of teeth, a nerve injury to the tongue ir a cyst in the mouth. As long as he is having no difficulty swallowing and mo coughing i recommend a full dental exam next week, any gagging or reluctance to eat would require an emergency visit

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?
Is your degu struggling to breathe, coughing, or have nasal discharge? A trusted vet offers vital guidance on respiratory issues like pneumonia and how to help.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?
Is your pet Barry occasionally sneezing or showing eye crust? A trusted vet offers insights on common respiratory concerns and when to seek professional advice.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My sick small pet is breathing mouth open. Did I drown her feeding?
Is your pet ill, struggling to breathe, or showing stroke signs? A certified vet addresses syringe feeding worries, discusses causes, and outlines treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored