Dogs drool a lot, but can it also indicate a medical problem? If you are wondering whether it’s time to visit your vet, you should observe your dog for several factors.
Although dog slobber is generally expected, it often indicates a medical concern. Therefore, distinguishing between the average dog slobber and what’s not can be life-saving. In addition, several things can excite your dog, causing him to produce more saliva.
Instances such as his breed, his excitement level, and four – are just some things that can get your dog drooling.
Identifying Normal Dog Slobber
When your dog suddenly starts drooling nonstop, it’s something to think about. It would help to inform your vet when your dog’s normal drooling levels change or increase. Medically termed ptyalism, excessive saliva production may signal a health problem.
Although dog saliva is normal, it can be excessive in some dog breeds. Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, Bloodhounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Mastiffs are known to be particularly drooly. Dog saliva is usual if you own any of the following breeds.
What Causes Dog Slobber?
Excitement often causes dogs to salivate. Preparing food or holding a ball above your dog’s head can also cause your pets to drool. Sometimes, being hungry will also make your dog start slobbering.
When does Dog Slobber Become a Concern?
As mentioned above, dog slobbers are a normal part of their everyday lives. However, there are instances when dog slobber may indicate something else. Anxiety can also make your dog drool excessively, and if associated with another symptom, such as excessive panting or tensed muscles, it signals that your dog is stressed.
Once the stressor is removed, your dog will no longer be anxious, and drooling will likely stop. Common examples of stressful situations are home renovations, the introduction of additional pets, a thunderstorm, fireworks, and more.
Another cause of dog slobber that signals a health concern is when there are dog abscesses, heatstroke, mouth irritation, a blockage, nausea, car sickness, and more. On a more severe level, a neurological condition may also cause excessive drooling. Usually, the facial nerves are affected, and the dog is prevented from controlling saliva production.
Drooling can become a medical concern if and when another symptom accompanies it. If your dog is drooping, panting, hot to the touch, won’t eat, has diarrhea, or vomits, you should call your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Why do Dogs Salivate in the First Place?
Naturally, dogs produce saliva as part of their life cycle. Often, it can be attributed to how their mouths are shaped. Since dogs have mucous membranes in their mouths, saliva is produced to moisturize those membranes. When too much saliva is produced but no proper outlet, it would end up drooling around their mouths.
Dog owners of breeds prone to drooling for most of their dogs’ lives can’t do anything about the dog slobber. They need to embrace their pets’ instincts.
Again, alert your vet if there are any changes or increased drooling habits of your pets in a short period.