No, it’s not just because you opened a cheese wrapper...
We’ve all been there. You glance down and, splat, there it is. A fresh glob of drool on your lap, your shoes, or worse, your face. But why do dogs drool? And when is it normal vs. something to be concerned about? Let’s break it down, puddle by puddle. 💦
🧠 First, the Science Bit
Dogs drool for the same reason we do: saliva production. It helps with digestion, lubricates food, and even protects their teeth and gums. The difference? Most dogs aren’t walking around with napkins or the ability to say, “Excuse me, I seem to be dribbling.”
🐶 Common (and Totally Normal) Reasons Dogs Drool
1. Food Glorious Food
You open the fridge. You touch a treat packet. You think about a biscuit.
Boom. Drool city.
Dogs are hardwired to drool when they anticipate food. It's called a Pavlovian response, aka the classic "see snack, make spit."
2. Excitement, Stress or Overstimulation
Just like some people sweat when they’re nervous, some dogs drool when they’re:
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Super excited (walk time!)
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Anxious (vet time…)
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Overstimulated (new people, smells, or squirrel 🐿️)
Try a weighted blanket, they can significantly improve your dog's emotional well-being during times of fear or anxiety. The gentle pressure that comes from the weight of the blanket can provide a calming effect.
3. Breed Matters
Some breeds are natural-born droolers. If you’ve got a:
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Boxer
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Mastiff
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Bulldog
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Saint Bernard
…you’ve already accepted your home as a saliva zone. These dogs have looser lips and jowls that don’t contain drool well, which is a nice way of saying, "get a mop."
⚠️ When Drooling Could Be a Problem
While drooling is usually normal, here are a few red flags to watch for:
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Sudden excessive drooling
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Bad breath or trouble eating (could signal dental issues)
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Drooling + vomiting or diarrhoea
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Exposure to toxins or foreign objects
Basically, if your dog’s mouth is acting extra weird, it’s always best to check in with your vet.
🤔 What Can You Do About It?
You can’t stop drool entirely (especially if your dog is a walking faucet), but here are a few ways to manage it:
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Keep a drool rag handy — embrace the drip.
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Check their teeth regularly — dental issues = more slobber.
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Keep them calm — less stress = less slime.
💬 Final Thought: It’s Not Gross, It’s Love (Kinda)
Sure, it’s sticky. Sure, it’s occasionally projectile. But drool is just part of the package when you love a dog, especially one with character, charm, and a few extra facial folds.
So next time your pup gives you a stringy smile, just remember: they’re not being gross… they’re just expressing their love, or thinking about bacon!
