Drooling in dogs is often normal for many pups. However, if your dog starts drooling more than usual—or if they’ve never been a drooler and suddenly begin to drool excessively—it could signal an underlying issue that needs attention.
Excessive drooling in dogs can result from various causes. Below, we’ll explore what to look for, potential reasons for increased drooling, and when it’s time to consult a vet.
Why Do Dogs Drool?
Drooling happens when saliva produced by the salivary glands escapes the mouth. Saliva helps with digestion and is typically produced when a dog eats or anticipates food, like when they spot a treat or hear you opening a bag of kibble.
For most dogs, drooling isn’t an issue. However, breeds with loose, heavy upper lips—such as Mastiffs and St. Bernards—tend to drool more due to their anatomy.
Why Is My Drooling Excessively?
Excessive drooling can stem from a variety of conditions, including:
- Gastrointestinal disorders
Conditions like esophagitis, gastritis, pancreatitis, gastric ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, or gastrointestinal cancers can lead to drooling, often as a result of nausea. - Gum disease or oral issues
Periodontal disease (e.g., gingivitis or stomatitis) or other oral problems like infections, tumors, or sialoceles may cause drooling. Signs to watch for include bad breath, bleeding, pus, or visible masses in the mouth. - Mouth injuries
Trauma from chewing on sharp objects, blunt force, or foreign materials like splinters or bone fragments can result in drooling. - Chemical or electrical burns
Exposure to caustic chemicals (e.g., battery acid) or chewing electrical cords can cause burns, bleeding, and drooling. Accompanying symptoms may include pawing at the mouth and visible lesions. If you suspect such injuries, contact your vet immediately. - Toxins and venoms
Ingesting poisonous substances like certain plants, foods, or drugs can cause drooling, sometimes with life-threatening side effects. Similarly, animal venom (e.g., from a spider bite) or secretions (e.g., licking a toad) can lead to excessive salivation. - Anxiety
Stress from situations such as vet visits, moving, or car rides can trigger excessive drooling. Other signs include restlessness, panting, or diarrhea. - Abdominal pain
Conditions causing abdominal pain may lead to drooling, often accompanied by restlessness, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or a distended abdomen. - Neurological conditions
Issues such as nerve damage to the salivary gland, brain injury, or neurological disorders may cause drooling. Other signs can include uneven pupils, lethargy, and difficulty swallowing. - Infections
Viral or bacterial infections, including rabies and tetanus, are known to cause drooling. - Congenital defects
Some dogs are born with conditions like hiatal hernia or portosystemic shunt (a circulatory defect) that may lead to drooling.
Is Excessive Dog Drooling an Emergency?
If your dog’s drooling is due to a medical condition, it’s often accompanied by other symptoms. Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog shows any of the following:
- Vomiting or regurgitation
- Diarrhea
- Bleeding
- Lethargy or weakness
- Changes in appetite or eating behavior
- Abnormal behavior, such as aggression or whining (indicating pain)
- Dizziness, head-tilting, or balance issues
- Difficulty swallowing
- Uneven pupils
- Abdominal distension
- Pawing at the mouth
How Veterinarians Diagnose Excessive Dog Drooling
Your veterinarian will start with a physical exam, focusing on your dog’s mouth and neck. They will review your dog’s medical history, including vaccinations, medications, and potential exposure to toxins or foreign objects.
Based on their findings, your vet may recommend diagnostic tests such as bloodwork or X-rays. For more serious cases, advanced diagnostics—like CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, or biopsies—may be necessary, often requiring a specialist referral.
How To Treat Excessive Drooling in Dogs
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Dental care
Professional cleaning or tooth extraction for periodontal disease. - Medication
Antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, or other medications as needed. - Surgery
For injuries, tumors, or congenital defects. - Radiation or chemotherapy
These may be needed for certain types of tumors. - Pain management
Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relief. - Medicated mouthwash
Solutions containing diluted chlorhexidine or benzoyl peroxide may help.
How To Prevent Excessive Drooling in Dogs
Prevention depends on the cause but includes these general guidelines:
- Avoid gastrointestinal upset by keeping toxic items, inappropriate foods, and foreign objects out of your dog’s reach.
- Transition your dog to new diets gradually.
- Maintain oral health by brushing your dog’s teeth or using alternatives like dental wipes, powders, or water additives.
Regular vet visits and proactive care can go a long way in keeping your pup healthy and drool-free!
