Certain dog breeds with large upper lips are known for being big droolers. We’re thinking about St Bernards, Newfoundlands and Mastiffs in particular. You’ll frequently see owners of these dogs mopping up around the dog’s mouth and some dogs permanently sport a bandana around the neck for just this purpose. It’s not uncommon for any dog to start salivating at the sight of a juicy steak. However, if your dog doesn’t normally drool much but has started to drool excessively, it is important to investigate what’s going on as soon as possible. We’re taking a closer look at why dogs drool, so that you can tackle potential health issues early.
Reasons why dogs drool
There are multiple potential causes of excessive drooling in dogs including dental issues, heatstroke, oral cancer, or abdominal issues.
Oral issues
If excessive drooling is caused by a broken tooth or an object lodged between the teeth, a vet removing the problem tooth under anaesthetic will make your pup more comfortable and will likely resolve the drooling issue completely. If the drooling is being caused by something more serious such as a tumour in the mouth, a a consultation with the vet is advised to determine the best treatment options.
Heatstroke
Dogs tend to pant a lot of they are too warm, so an overheated dog is very often a drooling dog. Avoid heatstroke by limiting exercise during high temperatures, giving your dog shade, and providing access to plenty of drinking water.
Motion sickness and anxiety
Both of these issues can also cause a dog to drool. So if you notice that the excessive drooling occurs mainly during car journeys, one or both of these issues may be the cause. It is worth talking to your vet about anxiety treatments to make your pup more comfortable. Investing in a rubber car boot liner is also helpful to protect your boot’s interior and to make cleaning up after your pup much easier.
Liver or kidney disease
Both of these diseases can cause excess drooling. A vet visit would be advised to rule out these conditions in your pup.
Eating poisonous plants
If your dog is a bit of a scavenger it is possible that he may have eaten something he shouldn’t. Some plants are toxic for dogs and can cause excessive drooling when ingested.
Try to pinpoint situations or triggers that make your dog drool more. Be aware of other symptoms your dog may have such as bad breath, weight loss, or mouth sensitivity issues. Booking an appointment with your vet would be the recommended approach, so that the excessive drooling can be investigated further.
Information given in this article is not a substitute for advice from a qualified medical professional. Please consult a vet for advice specific to your dog.
