Why Does My Dog Drool So Much?

Dog drooling is a natural part of pet companionship, but dog drool is unsightly and uncomfortable when it gets on your furniture, clothes, or skin. Some breeds are more prone to excessive dog drooling, so it’s important to understand the breeds you’re interested in adopting before they become part of the family. 

Whether your dog is drooling excessively or just typically according to its breed, there are steps you can take to mitigate some of the mess. Excessive drooling in dogs can also indicate health conditions and the mental state of your pet, so it’s important to get to know what’s typical for your unique pet pal. 

Here's what you need to know about drooling dogs, including why dogs drool at all, and what to do when your dog drools excessively.

Why your dog is drooling

Drooling is a normal part of owning a healthy dog. Some dog jowls are typically thicker or hold excessive drool that pools and spills out of your dog’s mouth naturally. Salivation in dogs, like in humans, is part of the digestion process and helps your dog begin to break down the food they consume. 

But drooling in dogs can also indicate other conditions, including the state of your dog’s mental or physical health. Maybe your dogs drool more when they’re being fed, or when they are especially anxious or excited. For example, many dogs drool more when they’re meeting another dog for the first time, or if they’re anxious about visiting the vet. 

So, if you’re wondering why dogs drool, it’s good to do your research before you get your dog and to get to know your pet’s unique patterns, behaviors, and anxieties. 

Sudden excessive drooling in dogs: when to worry

Knowing your pet as the individual that they are is key to understanding when excessive salivation in dogs warrants concern. As mentioned, some dogs drool excessively and always will. But sudden, excessive drooling can sometimes indicate a health concern with your pet. 

Dog shaking and drooling, when present in conjunction with one another, can sometimes indicate extreme anxiety, excitement, or fear. However, dog drooling and shaking in conjunction with other symptoms, like vomiting, can indicate something more serious. 

Dog drooling and vomiting can indicate gastrointestinal issues. Sometimes, when dogs are nauseated, they may drool excessively before vomiting. Whether it’s due to a new food or something more serious, like kidney disease,  liver disease, sign of heat stroke, or respiratory infection, is up to you to investigate. Usually, serious health conditions like these will also be accompanied by other symptoms, like loss of appetite, abdominal pain, increased body temperature, or an allergic reaction.

Sometimes, when dogs consume dangerous, poisonous plants like poinsettias, chrysanthemums, tulips, and azaleas, they’ll begin drooling excessively before they vomit. Knowing your dog’s typical drooling behaviors is important so that you can respond quickly when they ingest something that’s dangerous to them. 

Excessive dog drooling can also indicate a dental problem. If you notice your dog suddenly drooling excessively, check their teeth and gums for a foreign body or growth. Dogs, like humans, need regular dental cleanings about twice a year. If your vet hasn’t cleaned your pet’s teeth in the last six months, check their mouth for chipped teeth, mouth sores, or excessive buildup of plaque. Dental disease and tooth decay can be indicated by red or sensitive gums or bad breath. Excessive dog drool might indicate a serious dental issue or a growth inside your dog’s mouth. 

How to stop excess saliva and dog slobber

Whether a natural challenge of the breed you’ve selected or a new development in your dog’s behavior, there are remedies for excessive salivation in your drooling dog. Sometimes, tying a bandana around the neck of your excessively salivating dog can help clear the drool from their face before it lands on yours (or your floor, furniture, or clothes).

 If your dog is drooling excessively around feeding time, you might consider placing a towel or drool blanket under their food and water dishes. Similarly, keeping a towel on hand to wipe your dog’s mouth before and after feeding can help prevent some of the mess. 

Some dogs also salivate more during exercise or hot weather, so keeping a towel on hand when you walk or exercise with your dog can help. You can also keep a towel near your front door so you can clean up your pup before they come back inside. 

Remember, knowing your dog well will help you give them the best care. Knowing more about your dog’s behavior can also help you better understand their needs. Stay up to date with our monthly blog posts so you can learn more about pet ownership, your pet’s habits, and how to live harmoniously with your favorite furry friend.