Dog Excessive Drooling: Possible Causes and Solutions
Take a closer look at your pup's mouth; it might be a sign of dental issues.
Should you notice your dog drooling excessively and showing a lack of appetite, it's wise to inspect their oral cavity and teeth. Check for any signs of redness or inflammation in the gums. If you spot these symptoms, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian, as these could indicate periodontal disease or other health concerns.
Alternatively, your dog might be going through a teething phase. Loose teeth can occur as they grow, and when your pet chews on hard objects, it can cause the teeth to become loose. This constant stimulation of the salivary glands, combined with an immature swallowing reflex in puppies, can lead to increased drooling.
It could also be a case of something stuck in the throat, or even an injury.
If your dog tends to stretch their neck, appear restless, or have difficulty swallowing or discomfort when touched near the esophagus, it might be due to a foreign object in the throat, which can also cause persistent drooling.
It might be fear or anxiety at play.
When dogs are startled or exposed to external stimuli, they may produce a lot of saliva. However, once the cause is removed, they usually return to normal. For instance, dogs with separation anxiety might salivate heavily when they sense their owner is about to leave.
It could simply be too hot!
During the summer months or after vigorous exercise, dogs often need to dissipate heat. They might open their mouths and stick out their tongues to help cool down, which naturally leads to increased drooling!
It might be due to aging.
As dogs grow older, their muscles can become loose, leading to wrinkles and a mouth that doesn't close as tightly. This can result in uncontrollable drooling.
Travel sickness can also cause drooling!
Surprisingly, dogs can suffer from motion sickness too! Just like humans, they might feel queasy or uncomfortable while traveling, and drooling could be a sign of this discomfort.
It's actually quite common for dogs to drool, and as pet owners, there's no need to panic. Most cases are simply part of their natural behavior, but if you're ever in doubt, it's best to seek veterinary care. Most issues are common and can be addressed with proper medical attention.
