Dog Drooling Constantly: When You Should Be Concerned

Drooling is a normal part of being a dog, but when it seems like your dog is drooling constantly, it’s natural to wonder if something might be wrong. Excessive drooling can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention. As a pet owner, it can be helpful to know when your dog’s drooling is within the realm of normal and when it might be a sign of something more serious affecting your dog’s well-being.

Why Do Dogs Drool? 

Saliva plays a vital role in your dog’s digestive process and helps them break down food. When your dog sees or smells something tasty, the salivary glands kick into high gear, producing more saliva than usual. This increase in saliva production is especially common in breeds known for their large jowls, such as Saint Bernards or Bloodhounds, which naturally accumulate more drool.

High Emotions 

In addition to appetite-driven drooling, dogs might drool due to excitement, anxiety, or even during play. For instance, if your dog knows it’s time for a walk, you might notice an uptick in drooling as they anticipate the fun. Similarly, anxious dogs might drool as a stress response when they’re feeling uneasy about something in their environment. In these situations, drooling is typically short-lived and doesn’t pose any cause for concern.

Breeds Prone to Drooling

Breeds like Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, and Newfoundlands have larger lips and jowls that trap saliva, leading to more frequent drooling. If you own one of these breeds, you’re likely accustomed to a bit of drool, but it’s still important to recognize when the drooling might be excessive or abnormal.

When Drooling Might Signal a Problem

While occasional drooling is normal, consistent and excessive drooling can sometimes be a red flag. There are several health-related reasons why your dog might be drooling constantly.

Oral Health Problems

Dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, or oral tumors can cause discomfort and lead to increased salivation. If your dog has bad breath, difficulty eating, or visible swelling in their mouth, these could be signs of a dental issue that requires your veterinarian’s attention. Infections in the mouth can also lead to excessive drooling as your dog’s body produces more saliva to try to soothe the irritation.

Foreign Objects in the Mouth

Dogs are naturally curious and often chew on things they shouldn’t. If a piece of a toy, a stick, or even food gets lodged in their teeth or gums, it can cause significant discomfort and drooling as their body attempts to dislodge the object. If you notice your dog pawing at their mouth or showing signs of distress, check for any foreign objects and seek veterinary help if you’re unable to remove it safely.

Nausea and Gastrointestinal Issues

Just like humans, dogs produce more saliva when their stomachs are upset, often as a precursor to vomiting. Motion sickness, a change in diet, or gastrointestinal problems can all lead to nausea and increased drooling. If your dog’s drooling is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or a lack of appetite, it’s time to consult your veterinarian at Kenosha Animal Hospital to determine the underlying cause.

Neurological and Other Serious Conditions

In some cases, constant drooling can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as a neurological disorder or poisoning. Recognizing these situations early can be crucial in ensuring your dog gets the care they need.

Neurological Disorders

Certain neurological conditions can affect your dog’s ability to swallow properly, leading to excessive drooling. For example, dogs suffering from conditions like rabies, facial nerve paralysis, or epilepsy may have difficulty controlling their saliva. If your dog’s drooling is accompanied by symptoms like uncoordinated movements, seizures, or changes in behavior, immediate veterinary attention is necessary.

Poisoning and Toxin Exposure

If your dog has ingested something poisonous, such as certain plants, chemicals, or human medications, they may begin to drool uncontrollably. Other signs of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or extreme lethargy. If you suspect your dog has been poisoned, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic right away.

Environmental Factors That Could Contribute to Drooling

Environmental factors can also play a role in your dog’s drooling habits. Changes in temperature, humidity, or even new surroundings can trigger an increase in saliva production.

Heat and Humidity

Dogs cool themselves by panting, and in hot or humid weather, this can lead to more drooling as their bodies work harder to regulate temperature. While some increase in drooling during the summer months is normal, excessive drooling, especially if accompanied by signs of heatstroke like heavy panting or lethargy, warrants a trip to the vet. Keeping your dog cool and hydrated during warm weather can help prevent heat-related health issues.

Anxiety and Stress

New environments or stressful situations can also cause your dog to drool more than usual. If you’ve recently moved, introduced a new pet to the household, or your dog has been exposed to loud noises, you might notice an uptick in drooling as a stress response. Identifying the source of your dog’s anxiety and taking steps to minimize it can help reduce their drooling.

When Should You Call Kenosha Animal Hospital?

While some drooling is normal, if you notice that your dog is drooling constantly and the drooling is accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty eating, bad breath, vomiting, or changes in behavior, it’s time to consult with your veterinarian. At Kenosha Animal Hospital, our team can help you determine the cause of your dog’s drooling and provide the appropriate care. 

Whether it’s a dental issue, a foreign object, or something more serious, we’ll work with you to ensure your dog receives the treatment they need to stay healthy and happy. If you’re concerned about your dog’s drooling, call us today at (262) 658-3533 to schedule an appointment.