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My senior dog has red tongue & bad breath. Is it time to say goodbye?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 12 years and 2 months old

My staffie, jd, is 12 years old and on medication for arthritis, anti inflammatory and pain relief. However, since last night his tongue is very red. His breath is bad as well. Is it time to let him go? :(

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on December 23rd, 2017

Red tongue and bad breath are not necessarily a sign that he is close to the end, if he is otherwise fine i do not see an immediate reason to get to that conclusion. if he stops moving around or stops eating then it would be a different thing.

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