When you have a dog, there may be moments when you notice that your beloved pet is drooling more than usual. Just like us humans, who might drool at the sight of delicious food, dogs can also drool excessively for various reasons. In fact, if your dog is drooling more than usual, it might indicate a potential health issue.
In this article, we will explain the reasons why dogs drool and the signs of drooling that require attention. If you’ve recently noticed that your dog’s drooling has increased, please use this information as a reference.
- 6 Reasons Why Dogs Drool
- Hunger
Because they are hungry - Relaxation
Because they are relaxed - Taste or Irritation
Because they feel bitterness or irritation - Heat
Because the weather is hot - Stress
Because they are stressed - Illness or Discomfort
Because they are sick or unwell
- 8 Possible Diseases Associated with Excessive Drooling
- Periodontal Disease / Gingivitis
- Heatstroke
- Stomatitis
- Gastritis / Foreign Body Ingestion
- Oral Tumors
- Epilepsy
- Pharyngitis
- Poisoning
- 3 Ways to Identify Potential Illness from Drooling
- Persistent Drooling
The drooling does not stop - Foamy Drool
The drool contains bubbles - Unpleasant Odor
The drool has a bad smell
- Recommended Foods and Supplements for Hormonal Balance
- Summary
6 Reasons Why Dogs Drool
The main reasons why dogs drool are as follows:
- Hunger
- Relaxation
- Taste or Irritation
- Heat
- Stress
- Illness or Discomfort
Let’s look at each reason in detail.
Reason 1: Hunger
When a dog is hungry and sitting in front of a meal or waiting for food, drooling may increase. This is a natural response to help with digestion preparation and is generally not a cause for concern.
Reason 2: Relaxation
When a dog is sleeping or relaxing with its owner, the parasympathetic nervous system becomes more dominant, leading to an increase in thin saliva to keep the mouth moist. This can result in the dog drooling more.
After a dog licks or ingests irritants like detergents or bitter medicines, drooling may increase. This is because the mouth produces more saliva in response to the unpleasant taste or irritation. Generally, providing ample water and food can help the dog calm down. However, if the dog has ingested something harmful, it’s important to consult a veterinarian promptly for professional advice.
Unlike humans, dogs cannot sweat to regulate their body temperature. When it gets hot, they cool down by opening their mouths, sticking out their tongues, and panting. As they pant, the saliva in their mouths evaporates along with their breath, helping to lower their body temperature. However, since their mouths are open, this can also result in increased drooling.
Reason 5: Stress
In unfamiliar settings like a veterinary clinic or a new park, dogs may drool more due to stress and anxiety, often accompanied by signs such as trembling or rapid breathing. Storms or thunder can also cause increased drooling.
To ease your dog’s anxiety, try to remove the stressor if possible. If that’s not feasible, using favorite treats, toys, or a lick mat can help them relax and feel more at ease.
Reason 6: Illness or Discomfort
Increased drooling can be a sign of various health issues in dogs. Pay particular attention if your dog shows symptoms such as:
- Stomatitis
- Periodontal disease
- Laryngitis
- Gastritis
- Bloat
- Heatstroke
- Epilepsy
- Ingested foreign objects
If your dog also exhibits symptoms like bad breath, loss of appetite, fever, seizures, or nausea, it’s important to visit a veterinarian promptly.
8 Diseases Associated with Excessive Drooling in Dogs
The 8 diseases associated with excessive drooling in dogs are as follows:
- Periodontal Disease / Gingivitis
- Heatstroke
- Stomatitis
- Gastritis / Foreign Body Ingestion
- Oral Tumors
- Epilepsy
- Pharyngitis
Let’s look at each disease in detail.
1. Periodontal Disease / Gingivitis
In cases of periodontal disease or gingivitis, increased drooling can be accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Swollen, red gums with bleeding or pus
- Presence of tartar
- Strong bad breath
- Difficulty eating or decreased appetite
- Scratching or rubbing the mouth excessively
- Making smacking noises
Additionally, the mouth may appear different than usual, and the dog might experience nausea.
2. Heatstroke
Excessive drooling in dogs can be a sign of heatstroke. When temperatures and humidity rise suddenly, a dog’s body temperature can increase rapidly, leading to heatstroke as their body struggles to regulate temperature.
In addition to excessive drooling, symptoms of heatstroke include rapid breathing, redness of the tongue and mouth, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you suspect heatstroke, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Delayed treatment can worsen the condition and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening.
3. Stomatitis
Stomatitis is a general term for inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, including gingivitis. It can have various causes and may present with symptoms other than drooling, such as loss of appetite, bad breath, and severe pain. Affected dogs may dislike having their mouth touched, or they may stop yawning midway.
The drool may also appear thicker than usual or contain blood.
4. Gastritis / Foreign Body Ingestion
If vomiting accompanies excessive drooling, it could indicate gastritis or the ingestion of a foreign object. In cases where the ingested object is toxic or sharp, prompt veterinary attention is necessary. Immediate treatment is essential for your dog’s safety, so consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
5. Oral Tumors
Oral tumors can be benign or malignant. Malignant tumors may cause pain and difficulty keeping the mouth closed, leading to increased drooling. Other symptoms include a sudden decrease in food intake, bleeding from the gums or mouth, and worsening bad breath.
6. Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that often presents as seizures. Increased drooling can be a prelude to a seizure. Other signs may include excessive licking of the tongue, unstable behavior, and restlessness. If a seizure occurs, record the symptoms and consult a veterinarian once the dog stabilizes. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing the condition.
7. Pharyngitis
Pharyngitis involves inflammation of the area at the back of the throat, near the esophagus or trachea. Causes may include infections (viruses or bacteria), inhalation of toxic substances like cigarette smoke or car exhaust, injury from foreign objects, or tumors. Symptoms include excessive drooling, swelling of the throat and lymph nodes, coughing, and breathing difficulties.
8. Poisoning
Poisoning can lead to excessive drooling in dogs. For instance, ingestion of chocolate or onions can cause drooling and seizures as symptoms of poisoning. Many foods are dangerous for dogs, and the caffeine in chocolate can cause overstimulation, leading to drooling and seizures.
3 Ways to Identify Potentially Illness-Related Drooling
1. Drool That Won’t Stop
If your dog’s drooling is not just excessive but also dripping continuously, it may indicate a health issue. Potential causes include:
- Heatstroke
- Gastric dilation-volvulus (bloat)
- Motion sickness
Persistent drooling can also occur due to extreme stress or fear. If there are other symptoms or if the cause is unclear, consult a veterinarian.
2. Foamy Drool
Drool that contains bubbles might suggest:
- Accidental ingestion of pesticides or chemicals
- Neurological issues
- Respiratory or cardiovascular diseases
- Gastric dilation-volvulus (bloat)
- Motion sickness
- Pancreatitis
If the cause is unknown, it could indicate a serious condition. Seek veterinary care promptly.
3. Foul-Smelling Drool
Foul-smelling drool may point to specific health problems:
- Acetone-like odor: Might suggest diabetes, which can cause bad breath due to dehydration.
- Ammonia-like odor: Could indicate kidney failure or uremia, where toxins build up in the body.
- Sour odor: May be a sign of gastritis or excessive stomach acid. Accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, it could point to gastrointestinal issues.
If drool is discolored, thick, or contains blood, it may be a sign of illness. Early veterinary consultation is advised.
Conclusion
In this discussion, we explained the reasons why dogs drool, potential diseases associated with drooling, and how to distinguish between them. Generally, drooling in dogs is often not a cause for concern, but it can sometimes indicate a health issue.
If you notice that your dog’s drooling might be related to a potential illness, it is important to have them examined by a veterinarian promptly.
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