How to Stop a Dog from Drooling

Causes of Drooling in Dogs

Drooling is a natural occurrence in dogs, but it can sometimes become excessive and signal underlying issues. Understanding the causes of drooling is essential for managing and preventing it.

Oral Hygiene Issues

Tartar buildup, periodontal disease, mouth ulcers, and growths can significantly contribute to drooling in dogs. Food particles that remain on the dog’s teeth can turn into tartar, leading to bacteria buildup and periodontal disease, which causes inflammation and gum infections. Mouth ulcers and growths in the mouth can also cause discomfort, leading to increased salivation as the dog’s body tries to soothe the irritation. Regular brushing of your dog’s teeth with canine toothbrushes and toothpaste, combined with dental chews, can help prevent these issues. Scheduling regular vet checkups is crucial to catch and treat any oral hygiene problems early on. Statistics show that dental diseases affect up to 80% of dogs by the age of three, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.

Canine Anxiety

Anxiety, fear, and nervousness are common triggers of drooling in dogs. When a dog feels anxious, its body can produce excessive saliva. This often happens during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when left alone for long periods. Owners can mitigate this by providing specific treats when leaving the house, which can create positive associations for the dog. In more severe cases, consulting with a vet about possible medication can help manage anxiety. Data suggests that about 14% of dogs suffer from separation anxiety, underlining the importance of addressing this issue.

Smelling Food

Dogs have an exceptional sense of smell, with approximately 220 million scent receptors compared to a human’s 5 million. This powerful sense can trigger mouth-watering responses when they catch the scent of food. It’s common for dogs to drool when they smell something delectable because their bodies are preparing for digestion. This natural response is especially notable when dogs are near their favorite foods or during mealtime.

Nausea

Gastrointestinal issues, motion sickness, and vestibular problems can also lead to excessive drooling in dogs. Just like humans, dogs can experience nausea from various causes such as car rides or eating something that disagrees with their stomach. Treating nausea with appropriate medication and consulting with a vet is essential for addressing these problems. Dogs suffering from vestibular disease, which affects their balance system, may exhibit symptoms like drooling along with head tilts and unsteadiness.

Prevention and Treatment Methods

Ensuring your dog stays drool-free involves regular care and proactive measures. Here’s how you can prevent and treat drooling:

Regular Dental Hygiene

Maintaining your dog’s oral hygiene is key to preventing conditions that cause drooling. Brush your dog’s teeth daily using a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Regular professional cleanings at the vet are also important. Studies indicate that regular dental hygiene can lead to a 10-15% increase in life expectancy for dogs.

Dental Chews

Dental chews are a practical tool for maintaining dental health and reducing drooling. These chews help clean teeth by reducing plaque and tartar buildup. They are also a tasty treat that dogs love, making dental care a bit more enjoyable for your furry friend. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for the best results.

Vet Checkups

Regular vet checkups can catch and treat underlying health issues early on, reducing the risk of problems associated with drooling. Annual or semi-annual visits ensure that any dental or health concerns are addressed promptly. Vets can also provide tailored advice suitable for your dog’s specific needs.

Manage Anxiety

Managing your dog’s anxiety efficiently can reduce stress-induced drooling. Provide comforting treats or toys when leaving the house to distract and soothe them. Consult with your vet about possible solutions, including medication or behavioral therapy for more serious anxiety issues. According to recent surveys, calming aids and behavior modification strategies significantly help in reducing anxiety in dogs.

Avoid Irritants

Prevent drooling caused by foreign bodies and toxins by keeping your environment safe. Ensure that small objects and toxic substances are out of your dog’s reach. Dogs are naturally curious, and protecting them from potentially harmful items can prevent accidental ingestion that leads to excessive drooling and other health issues.

Manage Nausea

Treating nausea proactively can prevent it from causing drooling. For dogs prone to motion sickness, consider medications or specific products designed to ease travel discomfort. If your dog frequently experiences nausea, consult with your vet to identify and treat the root cause effectively.

Manage Breeds Prone to Drooling

Some breeds are naturally more prone to drooling than others. Using bandannas or bibs can catch excess saliva and keep your dog more comfortable. Being aware of your breed’s tendencies helps in managing drooling better. Certain breeds, due to their physical attributes, will naturally drool more, and these methods can make daily life more manageable for both the dog and the owner.

Breeds That Drool Excessively

Several dog breeds are known for their tendency to drool excessively. Breeds such as:

• Saint Bernards
• Bloodhounds
• Mastiffs
• Newfoundlands
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Bulldogs
• Dogue de Bordeaux
• Neapolitan Mastiffs
• Bull Mastiffs
• Boxers
• Great Danes

These breeds are more likely to drool due to their physical makeup. Owning one of these breeds means extra attention to cleanliness and drooling management will be necessary.

FAQ

Q: Why does my dog drool?
A: Dogs drool for various reasons, including oral hygiene issues, anxiety, the scent of food, nausea, physical anatomy, dental problems, injuries, and excitement.

Q: How can I prevent my dog from drooling?
A: Regular dental hygiene, dental chews, vet checkups, managing anxiety, avoiding irritants, treating nausea, and managing breeds prone to drooling can help reduce drooling.

Q: What are some breeds that are prone to excessive drooling?
A: Breeds like Saint Bernards, Bloodhounds, Mastiffs, Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bulldogs, Dogues de Bordeaux, Neapolitan Mastiffs, Bull Mastiffs, Boxers, and Great Danes are known for excessive drooling.

For more tips on managing your dog’s behavior, you can check out this guide.

By understanding the various causes of drooling and implementing effective prevention and treatment methods, you can ensure your dog remains healthy and comfortable.