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What are the brown bumps in my dog's mouth and their purpose?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered | 6 years and 8 months old | 16 lbs

This is a weird question.... All dogs have brown spikes inside their mouth. What are they called and what is the purpose for them? I included a picture so you know what im talking about.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on February 26th, 2019

This is a great question. I do not think anyone truly knows their true purpose. I have done some research for you and there is no one clear answer. I would be inclined to call the papillae but that may not be correct. The veterinary anatomy book doesn't give it a specific name.

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