Many dog owners often notice their pets suddenly drooling a lot. What exactly causes this?
Cause Investigation
- Breed predisposition: Brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs, Chow Chows and Mastiffs are naturally prone to excessive drooling.
- Temporary triggers: Overexcitement, post-exercise panting, or exposure to high temperatures.
- Age-related change: Weakened mouth muscles in senior dogs lead to poor lip closure.
- Medical issues: Oral diseases (e.g., periodontitis), throat or esophageal problems (e.g., esophageal foreign bodies), or mandibular fractures.
- Heatstroke: Usually accompanied by anorexia, vomiting, and fever.
- Emotional response: Severe anxiety or fear can also induce heavy drooling.
Solutions
- Physiological drooling caused by temporary or breed-related factors requires no special treatment.
- For drooling triggered by diseases, identify the root cause first before determining the treatment plan. For example, if oral inflammation is caused by tartar buildup, schedule regular tartar removal and maintain daily oral hygiene.
- Heatstroke emergency: Rush the dog to the vet immediately. On the way, take all possible measures to cool it down.
Prevention Measures
Oral problems are a common culprit behind excessive drooling, so prioritize your dog’s oral health. Arrange regular oral check-ups at the vet, and use pet-specific toothpaste or mouthwash for daily care.
Important Reminder
Hydration is crucial for dogs that drool heavily, especially in summer. Constantly wet fur around the chin increases the risk of skin issues, so use a bib to wipe your dog’s mouth frequently.