What Is Mleming in Dogs? Cute, Weird & Totally Normal
Is your dog sticking their tongue out like they forgot how to mouth? It’s probably just mleming — a quirky, comfy dog behavior that’s totally normal.
Is Your Dog Mleming? Don’t Panic — It’s Not What You Think
You’re looking at your dog, and suddenly... the tongue. It’s just there. Sticking out. Slightly. Not enough to be dramatic, but enough to make you wonder: Did they forget how to use their mouth?
Welcome to the wonderfully weird world of mleming — one of the most adorable (and misunderstood) things a dog can do with their face.
What Is Mleming?
Mleming is when your dog’s tongue gently pokes out of their mouth and just... stays there. It's not a full lick. It’s not a pant. It's a mlem — a soft, silly, tongue-tippy moment of joy. And no, it doesn’t mean your dog has lost motor function. Most of the time, it just means they’re really relaxed or deep in thought (about bacon, probably).
Why Do Dogs Do It?
There are a few totally normal (and non-worrisome) reasons dogs mlem:
- 😌 Relaxation: Just like humans drool when they sleep, dogs mlem when they’re comfy.
- 🦷 Missing teeth: Some dogs with gaps in their mouth have trouble keeping tongues fully tucked in.
- 🐽 Flat-faced breeds: Bulldogs, pugs, and boxers are professional mlemers thanks to their snout shape.
- 🧠 Deep focus: Sometimes it happens when they’re zoning out, concentrating, or super sleepy.
When Mleming Might Actually Be Something Else
In rare cases, if the tongue stays out for long periods, or your dog seems in pain or drools excessively, it could be a sign of:
- Dental issues
- Dehydration
- Nerve injury or facial paralysis
But most of the time, a mlem is just that — a moment. No vet trip needed. No food change required. Definitely no panic search for grain-free filtered alkaline water.
Please Don't Panic-Mlem
If your dog is otherwise acting normal, eating well, and not showing signs of distress, mleming is perfectly healthy. It’s often confused with dry mouth, overheating, or stress — but unless there are other symptoms, you can chill out. Your dog certainly is.
Can You Encourage More Mlems?
Yes, and it’s as cute as it sounds. Just give your pup:
- A full belly (bonus: Farm Hounds treats work wonders)
- A quiet, cozy nap space
- Lots of love and calm vibes
Want to go pro? Give them a dream-worthy sleep zone. We recommend Bowsers Oslo Ortho Beds — because every great mlem deserves a plush, orthopedic throne.
Explore all Bowsers Beds and give your dog the comfort that inspires ultimate derp.
About the Author
Go Doggie Style is more than just a dog boutique — it’s a passion project by Dr. Patria Smith, a Doctor of Pharmacy, Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, Entrepreneur, wife, mother of 4 beautiful children and a proud dog mom. Founded in 2019, our blog blends professional insight, scientific accuracy, and a deep love for dogs to help pet parents give their pups the healthiest, happiest life possible.
- dog comfort
- dog sleeping behavior
- dog tongue sticking out
- funny dog habits
- Go Doggie Style
- mleming
- pet wellness
