The mental image of a salivating dog probably conjures up thoughts of Pavlov’s dinner bell. In reality, a drooling dog probably isn’t thinking about grub. Some dog breeds—particularly Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and mastiffs—drool all the time thanks to the way their mouths are constructed. But if you see your normally fastidious dog excessively drooling all of a sudden, it’s time to sniff out the cause—and the remedy.
Stop Dog Drool by Sticking It Out
If you observe that your dog is drooling more excessively than usual, it’s important to conduct a careful inspection inside her mouth. (Remember to be cautious to avoid any accidental bites from your furry friend!) Dogs, with their adventurous and curious nature, often find themselves tasting and chewing on a variety of objects during their exploration of the world. This can sometimes result in foreign items such as sticks, pine needles, pieces of bark, or other unexpected objects becoming lodged inside their mouth.
In the event you discover something stuck inside your dog’s mouth, do your best to gently remove the object on your own. Make sure to remain patient and careful while doing this, as the object may be causing discomfort to your dog and you wouldn’t want to exacerbate the situation.
However, if your initial attempts are unsuccessful, or if you feel uncomfortable attempting the removal, it’s essential to promptly seek professional help. Take your pet to a veterinarian, who has the necessary experience and tools to safely dislodge the foreign object. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to the health and well-being of your pet.
Dogs Drool, Regular Meals Rule
If your dog, Fido, who isn’t typically known for excessive drooling, has recently turned into a fountain of slobber, it’s a good idea to scrutinize her dietary intake. Sometimes, a dog’s unusual drooling can be the result of a sudden alteration in her diet. Have you been sharing table scraps with her or offering additional treats? If this is the case, consider discontinuing the extra snacks and revert back to feeding Fido her regular dog food.
Also, remember to ensure that other people in Fido’s environment, such as your neighbors, are not giving her any unauthorized treats between her meals. Although they might mean well, these unexpected snacks could be contributing to the problem.
Interestingly, even an issue as persistent as excessive drooling in dogs may see significant improvement, or even complete resolution, after just a few days of returning to their regular diet. This highlights the importance of maintaining a consistent, balanced diet for your pet, which not only supports their overall health but can also aid in controlling and preventing unusual behaviors such as excessive drooling.
Dog Is Drooling … Still? Waters Run Deep
Sometimes, your dog’s excessive drooling could be a manifestation of stress, anxiety, or overexcitement in response to changes in her environment. This could be prompted by various situations, such as relocating to a new home or introducing a new pet into your household.
In such circumstances, aim to make the environment as calming and soothing as possible. Ensuring that your dog has access to familiar items can provide a sense of comfort and security. For instance, if you’ve recently moved, make sure your pooch has access to her favorite blanket, a cherished toy, or her usual crate for sleeping. These familiar items can help to ease her into the new environment, reducing the anxiety that may be causing her to drool excessively.
Moreover, consider providing some extra tender loving care during this time of change. You could spend more time playing with her, provide extra cuddles, or engage in calming activities like gentle petting or brushing. If a new pet has been introduced into the household, make an effort to walk your dog separately from the newcomer. This gives her some one-on-one time with you, which can reassure her of your ongoing affection and commitment, thereby reducing her stress levels and potentially her drooling as well.
5 Remedies for excessive dog drooling
- Maintain a Consistent Diet: Sudden changes in a dog’s diet can sometimes lead to excessive drooling. Ensure your dog food is getting a balanced, consistent diet and limit table scraps and extra treats. If necessary, consider a diet recommended by your veterinarian.
- Provide Familiar Comforts: If your dog is drooling excessively due to stress or anxiety caused by changes in their environment, provide familiar items that can offer comfort. This might be a favorite toy, blanket, or their usual dog crate. These can help your pet feel more secure and reduce drooling.
- Offer Regular Oral Check-ups: Regularly check your dog’s mouth for any foreign objects that might be causing discomfort or drooling. Be gentle and cautious when conducting these inspections to avoid causing further discomfort or getting accidentally bitten.
- Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Try to minimize stressful situations for your dog, especially if you notice that certain events cause an increase in drooling. This could be during thunderstorms, trips to the vet, or the arrival of unfamiliar people or pets. Engage in calming activities with your dog, like petting, cuddling, or playing with a favorite toy.
- Seek Professional Help: If the excessive drooling continues, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. The drooling could be a symptom of a health issue that requires professional attention. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pet’s health.