Dawn Lowery 
Dog Diarrhea Explained
Drooling is a natural canine behavior, but excessive salivation can sometimes indicate underlying health issues that require attention. While some breeds are naturally prone to drooling, sudden changes in drooling patterns warrant closer investigation.
Understanding the difference between normal drooling and problematic hypersalivation can help you provide the best care for your canine companion. This comprehensive guide covers everything from breed predispositions to serious medical conditions that cause excessive drooling.
By learning to recognize concerning symptoms and knowing when to seek professional help, you can ensure your dog receives appropriate care and maintains optimal oral health.
Understanding Canine Drooling
Drooling, or ptyalism, is the excessive flow of saliva that accumulates in the mouth or spills over the lips. While all dogs produce saliva to aid digestion and maintain oral health, the amount and frequency of drooling varies significantly between individuals and breeds.
The Science of Saliva
Saliva plays several crucial roles in canine health. It contains enzymes that begin the digestive process, lubricates food for easier swallowing, helps maintain oral hygiene by washing away food particles, and contains antibacterial compounds. Dogs have four pairs of salivary glands that produce different types of saliva. The average dog produces approximately 1-2 liters of saliva per day, though this varies based on size, breed, and individual factors. Understanding saliva's normal functions helps contextualize when drooling becomes problematic.
Normal vs. Excessive Drooling
Normal drooling occurs in response to specific triggers like food anticipation, excitement, or heat. Excessive drooling (hypersalivation) happens without obvious triggers, is persistent, or represents a significant change from your dog's normal patterns. The key is knowing your individual dog's baseline drooling behavior.
| Type | Characteristics | Typical Causes |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Drooling | Context-specific, resolves when trigger removed | Food anticipation, excitement, car rides |
| Breed-Related | Consistent pattern, part of breed characteristics | Loose lip conformation, large jowls |
| Excessive Drooling | Persistent, unrelated to normal triggers | Dental issues, nausea, oral injuries |
| Emergency Drooling | Sudden onset, accompanied by other symptoms | Toxin exposure, foreign objects, heat stroke |
Normal Drooling Patterns
Many dogs drool as part of their normal behavior. Understanding these typical patterns helps distinguish between harmless drooling and potential health concerns.
Food-Related Drooling
Pavlovian Response
Drooling in anticipation of food is a natural conditioned response. The sound of food preparation, sight of food, or regular feeding times can trigger salivation.
Normal behavior
Motion Sickness
Travel Anxiety
Many dogs drool during car rides due to anxiety or motion sickness. This typically resolves once the journey ends and the dog becomes accustomed to traveling.
Common issue
Emotional Responses
Excitement & Stress
Dogs may drool when excited (seeing favorite people) or stressed (during thunderstorms). This is usually temporary and resolves as emotions normalize.
Emotional trigger
Breed-Specific Drooling Tendencies
Why Some Breeds Drool More
Breed-specific drooling is primarily related to facial anatomy. Dogs with loose upper lips (flews) and large jowls, like Bloodhounds and Saint Bernards, cannot effectively contain saliva within their mouths. The loose skin around their mouths acts as a reservoir that collects saliva, which then easily spills out. Additionally, breeds with shorter muzzles (brachycephalic breeds) may have dental crowding and anatomical features that contribute to drooling. Understanding your dog's breed characteristics helps set realistic expectations about normal drooling behavior.
Normal Drooling Triggers
| Trigger | Typical Response | Management Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Food Anticipation | Moderate drooling before meals | Use drool towels, feed in consistent location |
| Heat & Exercise | Increased drooling during/after activity | Provide water, avoid extreme heat |
| Excitement | Temporary drooling during play or greetings | Keep towels handy, calm greetings |
| Car Rides | Drooling during travel | Desensitization, anti-nausea medication |
Common Causes of Excessive Drooling
When drooling becomes excessive or represents a change from normal patterns, it may indicate underlying issues that require attention.
Dental and Oral Health Issues
Problems in the mouth are among the most common causes of excessive drooling in dogs.
| Cause | Additional Symptoms | Treatment Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Disease | Bad breath, difficulty eating, pawing at mouth | Professional cleaning, extractions if needed |
| Gum Disease | Red/swollen gums, bleeding, tooth mobility | Dental care, antibiotics, improved hygiene |
| Oral Injuries | Bleeding, swelling, reluctance to eat | Veterinary assessment, wound care |
| Tooth Abscess | Facial swelling, pain, difficulty chewing | Antibiotics, root canal or extraction |
Gastrointestinal Issues
Nausea and digestive problems frequently cause increased salivation.
The Nausea-Drooling Connection
Nausea is a common cause of excessive drooling in dogs. When dogs feel nauseous, their bodies produce excess saliva as a protective mechanism. This extra saliva helps neutralize stomach acids that may be regurgitated and protects the esophageal lining. Common causes of nausea include dietary indiscretion, gastrointestinal infections, pancreatitis, kidney disease, or motion sickness. If your dog is drooling excessively and showing other signs of nausea like lip-licking, swallowing frequently, or loss of appetite, consult your veterinarian to identify and address the underlying cause.
Other Common Causes
Additional factors that can lead to excessive drooling include:
- Foreign objects: Sticks, bones, or other items stuck in mouth
- Oral growths: Tumors, cysts, or warts in the mouth
- Heat stroke: Excessive panting and drooling in hot conditions
- Anxiety: Stress-induced hypersalivation
- Medication side effects: Some drugs stimulate saliva production
- Neurological issues: Conditions affecting swallowing reflex
Serious Conditions That Cause Drooling
While many causes of drooling are minor, some conditions require immediate veterinary attention. Recognizing these serious issues can be lifesaving for your dog.
Emergency Conditions
These conditions constitute veterinary emergencies and require immediate care.
| Condition | Additional Symptoms | Urgency Level |
|---|---|---|
| Toxin Exposure | Vomiting, seizures, tremors, weakness | Immediate emergency |
| Heat Stroke | Excessive panting, bright red gums, collapse | Immediate emergency |
| Rabies | Behavior changes, paralysis, difficulty swallowing | Immediate emergency |
| Foreign Object Obstruction | Gagging, pawing at mouth, distress | Immediate emergency |
Neurological and Systemic Conditions
Several serious health issues can cause drooling as a symptom.
Recognizing Rabies Symptoms
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system and can cause excessive drooling. In the "furious" form of rabies, dogs may become agitated, aggressive, and experience paralysis of the throat muscles, leading to an inability to swallow and characteristic foaming at the mouth. In the "dumb" form, dogs appear depressed, weak, and may have facial paralysis. Rabies is transmitted through bites from infected animals and is preventable through vaccination. If you suspect rabies exposure or symptoms, contact your veterinarian and public health authorities immediately. Never approach a dog showing potential rabies symptoms.
Breed-Specific Health Concerns
Some breeds are predisposed to conditions that can cause excessive drooling.
- Brachycephalic breeds: Bulldogs, Pugs - respiratory issues, dental crowding
- Giant breeds: Great Danes, Newfoundlands - higher risk of bloat, which can cause drooling
- Spaniels: Cocker Spaniels - higher incidence of lip fold dermatitis
- Small breeds: Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers - dental issues due to crowding
- Sighthounds: Greyhounds - sensitive to certain medications that cause drooling
Home Care and Management
For normal or mild cases of drooling, there are several management strategies you can implement at home to keep your dog comfortable.
Management Strategies
| Strategy | Implementation | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Drool Towels | Keep absorbent towels handy, gently wipe mouth | Reduced mess, skin protection |
| Bib or Bandana | Use absorbent fabric around neck | Captures drool, protects chest fur |
| Oral Hygiene | Regular brushing, dental chews, water additives | Reduces dental-related drooling |
| Environmental Management | Protect furniture with covers, easy-clean surfaces | Easier cleanup, reduced stress |
Dietary Considerations
Certain dietary adjustments can help manage drooling issues.
The Benefits of Dental Chews
Appropriate dental chews can significantly reduce drooling caused by dental issues. Chewing stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria. The mechanical action of chewing helps remove plaque and tartar buildup. Look for veterinary-approved dental chews that are appropriately sized for your dog and made from digestible materials. Avoid hard chews that could fracture teeth. Regular use of dental chews, combined with professional cleanings and home brushing, can maintain oral health and reduce drooling related to dental discomfort or disease.
Home Monitoring Checklist
- Note when drooling occurs and potential triggers
- Check for foreign objects in mouth during grooming
- Monitor eating and drinking habits
- Observe for signs of pain or discomfort
- Check for skin irritation around mouth and neck
- Monitor for changes in breath odor
- Watch for additional symptoms like vomiting or lethargy
When to Seek Veterinary Care
Knowing when home management is sufficient and when professional veterinary attention is needed is crucial for your dog's health.
Emergency Situations
Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog displays any of these signs along with drooling:
| Symptom | Possible Causes | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty Breathing | Foreign object, severe allergic reaction, obstruction | Immediate emergency care |
| Blood in Saliva | Oral trauma, bleeding disorder, toxin exposure | Immediate emergency care |
| Seizures or Tremors | Toxin exposure, neurological disorder | Immediate emergency care |
| Sudden Collapse | Heat stroke, shock, severe illness | Immediate emergency care |
When to Schedule a Veterinary Visit
Schedule a non-emergency veterinary appointment if your dog shows any of these patterns:
Preparing for Your Veterinary Visit
To make the most of your veterinary appointment, come prepared with specific information: when the excessive drooling started, any patterns or triggers you've noticed, changes in appetite or drinking habits, details about your dog's normal drooling behavior, any potential exposure to toxins or foreign objects, recent medications or dietary changes, and your dog's dental history. If possible, take photos or videos of the drooling episodes. This information helps your veterinarian narrow down potential causes and determine the most appropriate diagnostic approach.
Veterinary Diagnostic Approach
Your veterinarian will likely follow a systematic approach to diagnose the cause of your dog's excessive drooling.
- Comprehensive oral examination: Checking teeth, gums, tongue, and throat
- Physical examination: Assessing overall health and vital signs
- Dental X-rays: Evaluating tooth roots and jaw bones
- Blood work: Checking for systemic issues, organ function
- Imaging: X-rays or ultrasound if foreign object or mass suspected
- Neurological assessment: If neurological causes are suspected
Prevention Strategies
While not all causes of drooling can be prevented, many proactive measures can reduce problematic drooling and maintain your dog's oral health.
Proactive Health Maintenance
Dental Care
Oral Hygiene
Regular brushing, professional cleanings, dental chews, and water additives to maintain oral health and prevent dental disease.
Preventive care
Toxin Prevention
Safe Environment
Secure household chemicals, know toxic plants and foods, dog-proof your home, and supervise outdoor activities.
Environmental safety
Regular Check-ups
Veterinary Care
Schedule annual examinations, stay current on vaccinations, and address health concerns promptly before they worsen.
Medical prevention
Risk Reduction Strategies
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular veterinary dental examinations are crucial for preventing drooling caused by oral health issues. Many dental problems develop gradually and aren't obvious to pet owners until they become advanced. During a dental exam, your veterinarian can identify early signs of periodontal disease, fractured teeth, oral masses, and other issues that might cause drooling. Professional cleanings remove tartar buildup that can't be addressed through brushing alone. Most dogs benefit from annual dental exams, with some breeds or individuals needing more frequent care. Establishing a regular dental care routine from puppyhood sets the foundation for lifelong oral health.
Breed-Specific Prevention
Certain breeds benefit from targeted preventive measures.
- Heavy drooling breeds: Regular jowl cleaning to prevent skin infections
- Brachycephalic breeds: Special attention to dental crowding and breathing
- Small breeds: More frequent dental care due to tooth crowding
- Working breeds: Monitoring for foreign objects during outdoor activities
- Senior dogs: Increased attention to oral health and systemic conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
A sudden change in drooling patterns, especially if your dog previously didn't drool much, warrants veterinary attention. Sudden onset drooling can indicate various issues including dental problems (broken teeth, abscesses), oral injuries, foreign objects stuck in the mouth, nausea, or even more serious conditions like neurological issues or toxin exposure. Schedule a veterinary appointment as soon as possible. In the meantime, carefully check your dog's mouth for visible issues, monitor for other symptoms, and ensure they're eating and drinking normally. If the drooling is accompanied by distress, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms, seek emergency care.
Yes, mild to moderate drooling is common during the teething process, which typically occurs between 3-6 months of age. The discomfort of new teeth erupting through the gums can stimulate increased saliva production. Puppies may also drool more because they're constantly chewing on things to relieve teething pain. However, excessive drooling accompanied by refusal to eat, bleeding gums, or signs of severe pain is not normal and should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Provide appropriate teething toys, frozen washcloths, or veterinarian-approved pain relief options to help manage teething discomfort. The drooling should decrease once the adult teeth have fully erupted.
Yes, anxiety is a common cause of excessive drooling in dogs. Stress triggers various physiological responses, including increased saliva production. Common anxiety triggers that may cause drooling include separation anxiety, fear of loud noises (thunderstorms, fireworks), car travel, or visits to the veterinarian. Anxiety-related drooling is usually temporary and resolves once the stressful situation ends. If your dog experiences frequent anxiety-induced drooling, behavior modification techniques, environmental management, and in some cases, anti-anxiety medications or supplements recommended by your veterinarian can help. Desensitization to specific triggers can also reduce anxiety responses over time.
Car-related drooling is typically caused by motion sickness or anxiety. Motion sickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the inner ear (sensing motion) and the eyes (which may be focused on stationary objects inside the car). This confusion can trigger nausea and subsequent drooling. Anxiety about car travel can also stimulate drooling. To help reduce car-related drooling, try these strategies: gradually acclimate your dog to car travel with short, positive trips; ensure proper ventilation; avoid feeding right before travel; use dog seat belts or carriers for security; and consult your veterinarian about motion sickness medications or anti-anxiety options if needed. Many dogs improve with positive associations and repeated exposure.
Foul-smelling drool often indicates oral health issues that require veterinary attention. The most common cause is periodontal disease, where bacteria in the mouth produce volatile sulfur compounds that create bad breath. Other potential causes include oral infections, rotting food trapped between teeth, oral tumors, or systemic conditions like kidney disease that can cause uremic breath. Dental issues won't resolve on their own and typically worsen without treatment, potentially leading to tooth loss, bone infection, or bacteria entering the bloodstream. Schedule a veterinary dental examination to identify and address the underlying cause. Regular dental care can prevent recurrence once the immediate issue is resolved.
Yes, genetics play a significant role in drooling tendencies. Breeds with loose, pendulous lips (flews) and large jowls are naturally prone to drooling because their facial anatomy cannot effectively contain saliva. Prominent examples include Bloodhounds, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, and Basset Hounds. These breeds have extra skin around their mouths that forms "pools" where saliva collects before spilling out. Additionally, breeds with shorter muzzles (like Bulldogs and Pugs) may drool due to dental crowding and breathing patterns. If you have a breed known for drooling, this is typically normal behavior rather than a health concern, though sudden increases in drooling should still be evaluated.
Anticholinergic medications can reduce saliva production and may be prescribed in specific situations, but they should only be used under veterinary supervision. These medications work by blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which stimulates salivary glands. However, they have potential side effects including dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, and increased heart rate. They're typically reserved for specific situations like reducing drooling during travel or before procedures, or for dogs with neurological conditions causing problematic drooling. These medications don't address the underlying cause of drooling and should not be used as a long-term solution for normal breed-related drooling. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your dog.
Free Printable "Drooling Emergency Guide"
To help you quickly reference important information about canine drooling, we've created this comprehensive guide.
How to Use This Guide
This printable guide provides a quick reference for recognizing serious drooling symptoms, implementing home management strategies, and determining when to seek veterinary attention. Print it and keep it on your refrigerator or in your pet care folder for easy reference during emergencies.
Emergency Signs Quick Reference
| Symptom | Level of Concern | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty Breathing | Emergency | Immediate veterinary care |
| Blood in Saliva | Emergency | Immediate veterinary care |
| Seizures or Tremors | Emergency | Immediate veterinary care |
| Sudden Collapse | Emergency | Immediate veterinary care |
| Sudden Change in Drooling | Moderate to High | Schedule veterinary visit |
Emergency Contact Information Template
Print and fill out this emergency information to keep handy:
- Primary Veterinarian: ___________________ Phone: ___________________
- Emergency Veterinary Clinic: ___________________ Phone: ___________________
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (Note: fee may apply)
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (Note: fee may apply)
- Pet Insurance Information: Provider: ___________________ Policy #: ___________________
Conclusion: Managing Your Dog's Drooling
Drooling in dogs can range from normal breed-specific behavior to a sign of serious health issues requiring immediate veterinary attention. The key to effective management lies in understanding your individual dog's normal patterns, recognizing concerning changes, and knowing when to seek professional help.
By maintaining awareness of your dog's typical drooling behavior and implementing preventive care, particularly regarding dental health, you can minimize problematic drooling and ensure early detection of potential issues. Regular veterinary check-ups and prompt attention to sudden changes in drooling patterns are essential components of responsible pet ownership.
Remember that you know your dog better than anyone else. If something seems wrong, trust your instincts and consult your veterinarian. Your attentive care and quick response to changes in drooling behavior play a crucial role in your canine companion's health and wellbeing.
We'd love to hear about your experiences with managing your dog's drooling. Share your tips or questions in the comments below or tag us on social media with photos of your happy, healthy dog!
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