We love our dogs for all their quirky habits: the tail wags, the puppy eyes, and yes, even the drool! While drooling is a natural behavior for most dogs, there are times when it might be more than just a sign of a tasty treat nearby. As a dog owner, understanding the difference between normal and excessive drooling can help you catch potential health issues early and keep your four-legged friend in top shape.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of dog drooling, from what’s normal to when it’s a sign of something more concerning. Let’s get into it!

What Causes Normal Drooling in Dogs?

Dogs drool for a variety of reasons, and most of them are completely normal. Just like humans, dogs produce saliva to aid digestion and maintain oral health. Here are some common causes of normal drooling in dogs:

1. Anticipating Food: If you’ve ever prepared your dog’s meal while they sat there staring at you with wide eyes and a drool-covered mouth, you’ve witnessed classic anticipatory drooling. Just the sight or smell of food can trigger this response, and it’s totally natural.
2. Cooling Down: Dogs don’t sweat the way humans do. Instead, they regulate their body temperature primarily by panting, which involves increased saliva production. This is why you may notice your dog drooling more on hot days or after a vigorous play session.
3. Mouth Structure: Some dogs drool more simply because of the shape of their mouths. Breeds with loose lips, also known as “flews,” tend to drool more because they can’t contain their saliva as effectively.

Normal drooling is a part of life for many dogs, and as long as it’s predictable and not excessive, there’s nothing to worry about.

Which Dog Breeds Drool More?

Certain dog breeds are notorious for being “drool factories” due to their facial structure. These breeds often have loose, hanging skin around their jaws and mouths, which allows saliva to escape more easily. If you own one of these breeds, you’ll likely be well-acquainted with drool towels!

Some of the top drool-heavy dog breeds include:

• Saint Bernard: These gentle giants are known for their love of family—and their love of slobbering! Their drooping jowls are a major culprit.
• Mastiffs (English, Bullmastiff, Neapolitan): With their massive heads and loose lips, Mastiffs are heavy droolers. It’s just part of the package!
• Newfoundlands: These sweet-natured, water-loving dogs also tend to drool quite a bit, especially after drinking or exercise.
• Bloodhounds: With their signature wrinkly faces and droopy eyes, Bloodhounds are another breed that can leave a trail of drool behind them.
• Boxers: Boxers have shorter muzzles and large lips, leading to frequent drool. Combine that with their energetic nature, and you’ve got a recipe for drool splashes during playtime.

While these breeds drool more than others, it’s usually just part of their normal physiology. But how do you know when drooling crosses the line from “adorable” to “alarming”?

How Much Drooling is Too Much?

Every dog has its own drooling baseline, so the key to identifying excessive drooling is understanding what’s normal for your pet. Occasional bouts of drooling, especially in response to food, heat, or exercise, are nothing to be concerned about. However, if your dog starts drooling more than usual or the drooling is accompanied by other unusual behaviors, it could be a sign that something’s wrong.

Here are a few warning signs that your dog’s drooling may be excessive:

• Sudden onset of drooling: If your dog normally doesn’t drool much but suddenly starts, this can indicate a problem.
• Drooling without an obvious trigger: If your dog is drooling while resting, not eating, or when it’s not particularly hot, it could signal an underlying issue.
• Persistent drooling: Excessive drooling that continues for an extended period should not be ignored.
• Additional symptoms: If drooling is accompanied by vomiting, difficulty swallowing, foul odor from the mouth, or changes in behavior (like lethargy or anxiety), it’s time to take action.

What Medical Conditions Can Cause Excessive Drooling?

Excessive drooling, also known as hypersalivation, can be caused by various medical issues. If you notice your dog drooling more than usual, it could be due to one of the following conditions:

1. Dental Problems: Issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, or oral infections can cause your dog to drool excessively. Pain or irritation in the mouth may trigger drooling as the dog’s body tries to soothe the discomfort.
2. Nausea or Motion Sickness: Just like humans, dogs can feel queasy, and this can lead to increased drooling. If your dog drools excessively during car rides or before vomiting, motion sickness or nausea could be the culprit.
3. Heatstroke: Overheating can cause excessive drooling in dogs as they try to cool themselves down. Heatstroke is a serious condition, so if you notice heavy drooling alongside symptoms like rapid breathing, weakness, or vomiting, seek veterinary care immediately.
4. Poisoning: Ingesting toxic substances (such as certain plants, chemicals, or human foods like chocolate) can lead to excessive drooling as your dog’s body reacts to the toxin. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
5. Foreign Objects: Sometimes, dogs can get foreign objects like sticks, bones, or small toys lodged in their mouths or throats, causing irritation and drooling. If your dog is pawing at their mouth or seems uncomfortable, check for any obstructions.
6. Neurological Issues: Certain neurological disorders can affect the muscles involved in swallowing and produce drooling. If your dog shows other signs like uncoordinated movements or seizures, contact your vet.

When Should I Be Concerned About My Dog’s Drooling?

It’s normal to be concerned if your dog starts drooling more than usual, especially if it happens suddenly or with no clear cause. You should contact your vet if you notice any of the following signs alongside the drooling:

• Your dog is struggling to swallow or showing signs of pain when eating.
• There’s swelling, redness, or bad odor coming from the mouth.
• The drooling is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, or other signs of distress.
• Your dog is lethargic, disoriented, or showing signs of heatstroke.
• Your dog recently consumed something potentially toxic.

In any of these cases, it’s better to be safe and get a professional opinion.

How Can I Manage My Dog’s Drooling?

If you have a drool-prone breed, managing that slobber becomes part of the daily routine. Here are a few tips to keep things under control:

• Keep a drool towel handy: Having a towel nearby to wipe your dog’s face, especially after meals or exercise, can help prevent drool from getting everywhere.
• Frequent grooming: Regularly cleaning around your dog’s mouth can prevent drool from accumulating and causing irritation.
• Provide plenty of water: Ensure your dog stays hydrated, especially on hot days, as this can help manage normal drooling related to cooling down.
• Limit excitement: If you know certain triggers cause extra drooling, like excitement or stress, try to manage those situations calmly.

Can Stress or Anxiety Cause Drooling in Dogs?

Yes, stress or anxiety can definitely lead to drooling in dogs. Dogs can become anxious for many reasons—changes in their environment, separation from their owners, or even loud noises like thunderstorms. When they’re anxious, they may pant and drool excessively as part of their physical response to stress.

If you suspect that stress is causing your dog’s drooling, look for other signs of anxiety, such as pacing, whining, or hiding. You can help by creating a calming environment, using anxiety-reducing tools like calming sprays or treats, or talking to your vet about more serious interventions if needed.

Are There Home Remedies for Excessive Dog Drooling?

If your dog’s drooling isn’t caused by a medical condition, you can try some simple home remedies to help manage it:

• Cold water: Providing cold water can help soothe your dog’s mouth and reduce saliva production.
• Dental hygiene: Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly or giving them dental chews can help prevent oral issues that lead to drooling.
• Calm environment: If your dog is prone to stress-related drooling, creating a calm, quiet space for them can help reduce their anxiety.

However, it’s essential to remember that while home remedies can manage drooling in some cases, they won’t fix underlying medical problems. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about your dog’s symptoms.

How Do Vets Diagnose the Cause of Excessive Drooling?

If you bring your dog to the vet for excessive drooling, the diagnostic process usually starts with a thorough examination of your dog’s mouth, throat, and gums. The vet may also check for any foreign objects, infections, or abnormalities in your dog’s oral cavity.

In some cases, further tests such as blood work, X-rays, or even a CT scan may be needed to rule out more serious issues like tumors or neurological disorders. Your vet will use these tools to pinpoint the underlying cause of the drooling and recommend appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Drooling is a part of life for many dogs, especially certain breeds. However, knowing when your dog’s drooling is normal and when it’s a sign of something more serious can make a big difference in your dog’s health. While most drooling is nothing to worry about, sudden or excessive drooling can be a red flag for various medical conditions that require attention. Whether it’s related to dental issues, stress, or something more serious like poisoning, being aware of your dog’s normal drooling patterns and recognizing when something seems off will help you act quickly if needed.

Sources and References

• PetMD Editorial. “Excessive Drooling in Dogs.” Petmd.com, PetMD, 22 June 2022, www.petmd.com/dog/symptoms/excessive-drooling-in-dogs. Accessed 16 Sept. 2024.
• —. “Dog Drooling: When It’s Cause for Concern.” American Kennel Club, 9 Aug. 2024, www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-do-dogs-drool/.