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Ulcerative or Proliferative Gingival Lesions in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

Definition of

UlcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions in dogs are abnormal, often painful changes to the gums that can arise from a variety of causes, including infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., injuries, inflammatory conditions, or Tumors. They can significantly impair a dog’s eating behavior and overall quality of life.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Grundlagen und mögliche Ursachen

A dog’s gums play a crucial role in oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. health. They protect the teeth and bones from infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and injuries. A healthy oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. cavity is therefore essential for a dog’s well-being. UlcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions can indicate a disturbance in this delicate balance.

One of the most common causes of such changes is bacterial infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. These can result from poor oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. hygiene, where plaque and Tartar (calculus) accumulate on the teeth, which can lead to gingivitis. If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that destroys gum tissue and can lead to ulcers.

Injuries to the gums from foreign bodies, such as wood splinters or sharp objects, can also lead to ulcers. These injuries can become infected and inflamed, which complicates healing and can lead to further complications.

Neoplasms in the gingival area, such as benignBenign refers to a non-invasive, non-serious condition that is not life-threatening. In medicine, the term is often used to describe benign tumors that do not metastasize, meaning they do not form secondary tumors. Tumors (e.g., epulides) or malignantMalignant means "cancerous" and is used to describe tumors or neoplasms that grow invasively and have the ability to metastasize. Malignant tumors can cause serious health problems in dogs and cats. Tumors (e.g., melanomas), are also possible causes. These growths can displace gum tissue and lead to ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. changes.

Systemic diseases, such as autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., can also affect the oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and lead to ulcers. Diseases like pemphigus vulgaris or systemic lupus erythematosus can affect the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and cause inflammatory conditions of the oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients..

Typische Begleitsymptome

Loss of appetite: Dogs with gum problems may have difficulty chewing, which leads to reduced food intake.
Pain in the oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. area: Dogs often show signs of pain, e.g. by frequent lip licking or avoidance of touching the mouth area.
Bad breath: An unpleasant odor from the mouth can indicate a bacterial infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or an inflammatory condition.
Bleeding in the mouth: Blood in the saliva or on toys can be a sign of ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions.
Swelling: Visible swelling or nodules in the gingival area may indicate proliferative lesions or inflammatory conditions.
Tooth loss: Advanced diseases can lead to loosening or tooth loss.

Wann zum Tierarzt?

Eskalation: RED if severe Bleeding, refusal to eat/drink, rapid increase in size, significant foul odor, jaw Pain/suspected , or severe general disturbance.

A visit to the vet is advisable as soon as one or more of the above symptoms appear. Especially if the dog shows signs of Pain, is no longer eating or drinking properly, or if Bleeding is observed in the mouth area, one should not hesitate to seek professional help.

An emergency vet visit is required if the dog shows signs of a severe infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., such as high Fever, excessive drooling, or a sudden deterioration of its general condition. Immediate veterinary help is also necessary if growths rapidly increase in size or the dog has RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress.

The sooner the cause of the gingival changes is identified and treated, the better the chances of recovery and the lower the risk of permanent damage or complications.

Symptomerkennung für den Tierhalter und tierärztliches diagnostisches Vorgehen

For the pet owner, regular checking of their dog’s oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. cavity is important to detect changes early. If ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions are suspected, the pet owner should look for signs of redness, Swelling, or Bleeding. A changed odor from the mouth can also be an indicator.

At the vet, a thorough clinical examination of the oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. area is first performed. This includes palpationPalpation is an examination method in which the condition of body tissues is assessed by feeling them with the hands. It is used to identify swelling, pain, or other abnormalities. of the gums and surrounding structures, as well as inspection of the oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. cavity for signs of inflammatory conditions, ulcers, or growths.

Further clarification may require imaging procedures such as X-rays or an ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. examination to assess the depth and extent of the changes. If Tumors are suspected, a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. is often performed to histologically examine the tissue and make an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Blood tests may also be necessary to rule out systemic diseases or to check the dog’s general health. In some cases, a microbiological examination of the saliva or affected tissue may also be performed to more precisely determine the type of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Was kann der Tierhalter tun und professionelle Therapieoptionen

As a first measure, the pet owner should ensure that the dog receives soft food to avoid further irritation of the gums. Wet food or dry food soaked in water can help facilitate food intake.

Thorough oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. hygiene is crucial to support healing and prevent further infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Regular brushing with a toothbrush and toothpaste suitable for dogs can help reduce plaque and bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease.. Special mouthwashes for dogs can also be supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease..

Painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications should only be administered after consulting a veterinarian to avoid side effects or overdoses. The veterinarian can prescribe appropriate medications tailored to the dog’s specific needs.

It is important to regularly monitor the healing progress and consult the veterinarian again if symptoms worsen. Early and appropriate treatment can help maintain the dog’s oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. health and improve its quality of life.

Ausblick auf aktuelle Forschung

Current research in veterinary dentistry increasingly focuses on the genetic and molecular factors that contribute to the development of ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions in dogs. A study by the University of California recently investigated the role of specific genetic mutations associated with susceptibility to gingival growths. Initial results suggest that certain dog breeds have a higher risk of developing such symptoms due to their genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases..

Another area of research concerns the microbial flora in dogs’ mouths. Scientists at the University of Zurich are currently analyzing how the oral microbiome influences the risk of gum ulcers. Their hypothesis is that an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. in microbial communities can promote the development of inflammatory conditions and ultimately growths. This research could offer new approaches for preventive measures, such as the development of probiotics to promote a healthy oral flora.

The development of new diagnostic procedures is also receiving attention. Advances in imaging diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., such as the use of high-resolution 3D scans, enable veterinarians to assess gingival growths more precisely. Researchers at the University of Melbourne are working on integrating Artificial Intelligence to detect anomalies faster and more accurately. These technologies could significantly improve early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment.

Additionally, the effectiveness of various treatment methods is being investigated. A study at the University of Tokyo is currently comparing the effectiveness of surgical interventions with non-invasive laser therapies. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. results suggest that laser treatments could be a promising alternative, as they shorten healing time and improve Pain relief. However, long-term studies are required to confirm the sustainability of these results.

Overall, research shows that a multidisciplinary approach combining genetic, microbial, and technological aspects has the potential to significantly improve the understanding and therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. of ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions in dogs. Collaboration between geneticists, microbiologists, and technicians is crucial to gain new insights and improve the quality of life for our four-legged friends.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

What are the most common causes of ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions in dogs? Common causes can include gingivitis, infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., injuries, or in rare cases, Tumors. An accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is important to determine the cause and treat it appropriately.
How do I know if my dog has ulcers or proliferative lesions in the gums? Signs can include redness, Swelling, Bleeding, or a bad odor from the mouth. Sometimes the dog may also show Pain when eating or refuse food.
Should I take my dog to the vet if I notice ulcers in the gums? Yes, a vet visit is advisable to determine the cause of the symptoms and begin appropriate treatment. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. can prevent serious complications.
What treatment options are available for ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions? Treatment depends on the cause and can range from antibiotics for infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. to surgical procedures for Tumors. An accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is crucial for selecting the correct therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions..
Can ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions harm my dog? Yes, untreated ulcers or growths can lead to Pain, infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., and nutritional problems. In some cases, they can also be a sign of more serious health problems.
How can I prevent my dog from developing ulcers or proliferative lesions in the gums? Regular dental care, including brushing and professional dental cleanings, can help prevent gum diseases. A balanced diet and regular veterinary check-ups are also important.
Is it normal for older dogs to develop ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions more often? Yes, older dogs are more susceptible to gum diseases due to age-related changes in the body. Regular veterinary check-ups are particularly important to detect and treat problems early.
Are there breeds that are more prone to gum problems? Some breeds, such as Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, and Dachshunds, are more prone to dental problems due to their genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases.. For these breeds, good dental hygiene is particularly important.
Can ulcerativeUlcerative refers to the condition or process that leads to the formation of ulcers. Ulcers are open Wounds or Lesions that can form on the skin or mucous membranes, are painful, and often heal slowly. or proliferative gingival lesions in dogs heal on their own? Some mild cases may improve without treatment, but it is important to identify and treat the underlying cause to prevent relapses or complications.
How often should I check my dog’s teeth to detect ulcers or proliferative lesions early? It is recommended to check your dog’s teeth and gums at least once a week and regularly visit the veterinarian for professional dental cleanings and check-ups.