Why do dogs drool? It may seem gross but slobbering is totally normal – however, excessive saliva could mean all is not well…

Drooling in dogs is usually perfectly normal, says veterinary surgeon Catherine Burke. Here’s why

By PDSA

Published: Friday, 30 August 2024 at 10:33 AM

All dogs have saliva and a moderate amount of drool (which may also be referred to as saliva or slobber) is normal for most dogs, says PDSA veterinary surgeon Catherine Burke.

Why do dogs drool?

Saliva helps dogs to move food down their oesophagus (food pipe) into their stomach and it starts the process of digesting the food.

Dogs cool down through panting and by drooling, so you may notice them producing more saliva when they start to get warm. Saliva production can also occur in response to feelings such as excitement, anxiety or hunger.

Some dog breeds, such as mastiffs, bulldogs, newfoundlands, Saint Bernards and bloodhounds seem to drool more. These big dogs breeds have a large surface area on their bodies that they need to keep cool – panting and producing saliva helps with this. Because of the shape of their mouths, saliva escapes more easily than in other breeds.

What could excessive drooling be a sign of?

Whilst drooling is normal, excessive drooling can be a sign of an underlying health issue, and it’s important to contact your vet for advice if you notice your dog has started drooling more than usual.

Excessive drooling can be an indication of a health concern:

Nausea (feeling sick) – it’s very common for dogs to drool and lick their lips if they are feeling sick.
Dental problems – a problem with the teeth or gums can cause increased drooling.
Something stuck in the mouth – foreign objects stuck in the mouth can lead to increased drooling.
Mouth ulcers or infections – ulcers or infections in the mouth, throat or tongue can cause excess drooling.
Toxicity – coming into contact with a toxin or poison such as certain plants, chemicals or medications, can cause excessive drooling. Contact your vet immediately if you think your dog has come into contact with or eaten something toxic.
Stress or separation anxiety – drooling is a common response to stress, alongside other symptoms such as lip licking, yawning and panting.
Seizures – many dogs drool excessively before, during and after they have had a seizure.
Heatstroke – a dog that is overheating is likely to drool excessively and might even start foaming at the mouth.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV), also known as a bloated and twisted stomach – sudden excessive drooling, alongside symptoms such as bloat and trying to vomit but not being able to, can be an indicator of GDV.
Difficulty swallowing – if your dog is having difficulty swallowing, their saliva is likely to build up and leak from their mouth.
If your dog is drooling excessively, your vet is likely to ask about their drooling habits, medical history, and any other symptoms you have noticed. As well as examining your dog, checking inside their mouth, and potentially running further investigations, such as blood tests, if deemed necessary.

It is important for owners to contact your vet immediately if:

Your dog’s drooling suddenly increases or becomes continuous `
You notice other concerning symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy
Your dog appears distressed or in pain
You think your dog may have eaten a toxic substance or poison
You think your dog might be suffering from GDV – a bloated and twisted stomach
You think your dog might be suffering from heatstroke

More information, help and advice can be found on PDSA’s website.

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