If you’re an American Bulldog owner or fan, you’ve probably noticed that they can be, well, drool monsters. It’s not uncommon for these lovable canines to leave a trail of slobber wherever they go. But why do American Bulldogs drool so much? And more importantly, how do you know if their drooling is normal or something to be concerned about? This blog will dive into the reasons behind American Bulldog drooling, when to seek veterinary advice, and how to manage the drool in a way that keeps you and your pup happy.

Common Causes of Drooling in American Bulldogs

Drooling in American Bulldogs is often linked to their unique anatomical features. In fact, many large dog breeds like the American Bulldog are known for their drool. The structure of their face plays a huge role in why they might be slobbering more than your neighbor’s Chihuahua.

Loose Lips (Flews)

One major contributor is the presence of what’s known as “loose lips” or flews. These floppy lips hang lower and looser around their jaws, making it easier for saliva to escape. Unlike breeds with tighter lips, where the saliva is more contained, American Bulldogs just let it all drip!

Underbites

Another reason is their underbite. Many American Bulldogs naturally have an underbite, where the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw. This misalignment makes it harder for the dog to keep their mouth closed tightly, so saliva builds up and easily drips out.

Big Jowls

Their large jowls also mean there’s more space for saliva to gather. Combine that with their loose lips, and you’ve got a perfect drool machine.

In short, between loose lips, underbites, and big jowls, American Bulldogs are anatomically predisposed to drool. It’s just part of their charm!

Is Drooling Normal for American Bulldogs?

Yes, drooling is absolutely normal for American Bulldogs. It’s something you’ll have to embrace as part of their everyday behavior. The amount of drooling can vary based on the dog, with some Bulldogs drooling mostly around mealtimes, while others seem to be constantly dripping.

As long as the drooling is consistent and there are no other worrisome signs, like a sudden increase in drooling or accompanying symptoms (which we’ll discuss in a bit), there’s usually nothing to worry about. It’s part of the package with these lovable goofballs!

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

While some drooling is normal, there are times when you might need to take a closer look. Sudden or excessive drooling can be a sign of underlying health issues, especially if it’s paired with other symptoms. Here’s when you should consider visiting a vet:

• Sudden Change: If your dog suddenly starts drooling more than usual, without any obvious reason (like food or excitement), this could indicate a problem.
• Lethargy: If drooling is accompanied by tiredness, reluctance to move, or just generally acting “off,” it could be a sign of illness.
• Vomiting: Excessive drooling, paired with vomiting or nausea, could mean your dog has ingested something harmful or is feeling sick.
• Difficulty Eating or Drinking: If your Bulldog seems to be in pain or having trouble eating, dental issues might be to blame, leading to more drool than usual.

In any of these cases, it’s best to consult with your vet to rule out any serious conditions.

How Does Heat and Exercise Affect Drooling?

American Bulldogs can drool more when they’re overheated or after strenuous exercise. Like many large dogs, Bulldogs are prone to overheating, especially during hot weather or intense physical activity. When they get too hot, they pant heavily to cool down, which leads to increased saliva production and drooling.

Exercise also causes them to pant more, and this heavy panting can lead to extra slobbering. Keep an eye on your Bulldog in the heat—if they’re drooling excessively and showing signs of heat exhaustion (like heavy panting, red gums, or a sluggish attitude), you may need to step in with some cooling measures.

Pro Tip: Keep a stylish, absorbent pet bandana from Printies around your dog’s neck. Not only will it help manage drool during walks or playtime, but you can also personalize it to showcase your dog’s personality!

Can Dental Issues Cause Excessive Drooling?

Yes, dental problems can definitely lead to excessive drooling in American Bulldogs. If your pup has a sore tooth, inflamed gums, or even something stuck in their mouth, the discomfort may cause them to salivate more than usual.

Common dental issues include:

• Periodontal disease: A gum infection that can lead to pain and excessive drooling.
• Tooth abscesses: These painful pockets of infection may result in extra saliva production.
• Foreign objects: Something like a small stick or piece of a toy lodged in the gums can also cause drooling.

Regular dental checkups and proper oral care are essential for keeping drool in check. If you notice your dog drooling more and showing signs of mouth pain (like pawing at their face or avoiding food), a trip to the vet is warranted.

What Other Health Issues Might Cause Drooling?

Aside from dental concerns, there are other medical conditions that could cause your American Bulldog to drool more than usual. These include:

• Nausea: Just like humans, dogs can feel queasy and drool when they’re feeling nauseous. This can happen after eating something that didn’t agree with them, car rides, or illnesses.
• Poisoning or Toxicity: If your dog has ingested something toxic (like certain plants, chemicals, or human food), excessive drooling is often one of the first signs. This situation requires immediate veterinary care.
• Infections: Infections in the throat, esophagus, or digestive tract may lead to more drooling.

Always keep an eye out for changes in your dog’s behavior alongside drooling. If you notice vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy along with excessive slobber, call your vet.

Tips for Managing Drooling in American Bulldogs

While you can’t stop your American Bulldog from drooling altogether (it’s just part of their lovable package), there are some things you can do to manage the mess and make life a little easier.

Grooming and Hygiene

Regular grooming is essential to keep your Bulldog’s face clean and dry. The wrinkles around their mouth can trap saliva, leading to irritation or infection if left unchecked. Here’s how to stay on top of the drool:

• Wipe their face regularly: Keep a soft cloth or dog wipes handy to clean up drool throughout the day.
• Check for irritation: Inspect the skin folds around the mouth for any signs of redness or infection caused by trapped moisture.
• Use a pet mat: When feeding, place a personalized pet feeding mat from Printies under your dog’s bowls to catch any drips and keep your floors cleaner.

Stylish Solutions

For drool-heavy activities, like walks or playtime, consider dressing your Bulldog in an absorbent pet bandana. Not only does it help catch some of that drool, but it also makes your pup look extra stylish! You can even match the bandana to a custom dog collar and leash set from Printies for a coordinated look that stands out during trips to the park.

Keep Their Space Clean

American Bulldogs tend to slobber when they’re lounging, too. Use a customized pet mat or dog bed to protect your furniture and make cleaning easier. With designs from Printies, you can create a cozy spot that reflects your dog’s unique personality while helping manage their drool.

Stay Hydrated

Make sure your Bulldog always has access to fresh, cool water, especially in hot weather or after exercise. A personalized pet bowl can add a touch of style to your home while keeping them hydrated. Keeping them cool helps reduce overheating-related drooling.

Owning an American Bulldog means embracing the drool, but with some simple management tips and a little help from stylish accessories, you can keep things under control. Whether it’s wiping up after mealtime or dressing them in a fun bandana from Printies, you can handle the drool with flair!

Sources and References

• Kasinger, Chona. “Why Do Bulldogs Drool so Much?” The Dog People by Rover, www.rover.com/blog/bulldogs-drool/. 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/.