Hi there,

I was wondering if anyone can tell me whether I should be worried about my dog.  His gums have always been pink (some black spotting which I realise is normal) but he's been restless the last couple of days so while checking him over, I checked out his gums.  I was shocked to see that they are much much more black than usual.  Now they are almost totally black with a bit of pink spotting.  The gums in his lower jaw seem normal.

I've tried to look up online but everything talks about pale gums being a problem but black is okay - however I don't think they should change so suddenly?

My dog is a 7 year old lurcher.  Your advice would be much appreciated. :/

This could be nothing or it could be due to something serious eg: lack of oxygen. My advice is take your dog to the vet asap for a good check-up.

> I don't think they should change so suddenly?
>

Are you sure it was sudden? Could you just not have noticed?
Black gums are usually just a sign of deep black pigmentation which is highly desirable in many breeds.
Pale pink, grey or white gums are a sign of shock, anaemia, heart touble and several other conditions

If you are at all worried and/or there are any other 'symptoms' then contact your vet.

By suddenly I'd say the last couple of weeks.  Last time I really saw his gums was around Xmas.

I intend to take him to a vet but it alarmed me in case it was a sign of something very urgent that I should get seen tonight.

From all I can find online it's not, but it never hurts to ask...

As toolz said most breeds with good black pigment would have dark gums, the reverse would worry me if sudden.

What breed and age.  My first thought was pigmentation.

Well Christmas was only 2 weeks back so if you definately saw them then and they were pink, its a rapid change. To set your mind at rest take him to see the vet.I can't think of any particular conditions that turn gums black but I'm no vet. My first thought was pigment but its all so quick.  Let us know what the vet said.