It’s normal for dogs with droopy cheeks, like Bloodhounds, Saint Bernards, and Mastiffs, to drool a lot. However, if your Golden Retriever is drooling too much, it could mean something is wrong.
Not all drooling is bad. Like all dogs, Golden Retrievers drool when they see or smell food. In this article, we’ll explain when drooling is normal and when it might be a problem. So we will show you Do Golden Retrievers Drool Excessively? 7Causes Explained.
Why Do Dogs Drool?
All dogs, including Golden Retrievers, drool just like humans do. When they smell food or expect a meal, their mouths fill with saliva to help them digest.
A yummy meal will make a Golden Retriever drool more than usual. Oddly enough, bad-tasting things, like medicine, can make them drool too.
Why Is My Dog Drooling a Lot?
There are many reasons why dogs drool a lot. Some common causes include:
- Stomach Problems: Issues like esophagitis, gastritis, or even something stuck in their stomach can make dogs drool. This usually happens because these problems cause nausea.
- Gum Disease or Mouth Problems: Drooling can be caused by gum disease or other mouth issues like infections, tumors, or injuries. Look for other signs like bad breath, bleeding, or a lump in their mouth.
- Mouth Injuries: If your dog chews on something sharp or gets something stuck in their mouth, it can cause drooling.
- Chemical or Electrical Burns: If your dog chews on an electrical cord or gets into chemicals like battery acid, it can cause drooling. These burns often cause pain, and your dog might paw at their mouth. Call the vet right away if you think this happened.
- Poisoning or Venom: Eating something toxic, like a poisonous plant or certain drugs, can cause drooling. Bites from venomous animals like spiders or licking a toad can also cause this.
- Anxiety: If your dog is nervous, like during a vet visit or a car ride, they might drool more than usual. They might also be restless, pant, or have diarrhea.
- Belly Pain: Pain in the abdomen can cause drooling, along with other signs like restlessness, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
7 Reasons Golden Retrievers Might Drool Too Much
If your Golden Retriever drools a lot outside of mealtime, there could be several reasons:
- Teeth and Gums: Dental problems, like tartar or a stuck object, can cause drooling. Check their mouth for red, swollen gums or brown spots on their teeth.
- Toxins and Digestive Issues: If your dog eats something toxic, like a poisonous plant, they might drool and show other signs like vomiting or shaking. If you suspect poisoning, call the vet immediately.
- Heatstroke: On hot days, dogs pant to cool down. If your Golden Retriever drools a lot on a hot day, they might be overheating. Make sure they have water and shade.
- Anxiety: New situations, like fireworks or thunderstorms, can make your dog anxious and cause drooling.
- Trigeminal Neuritis: This condition affects the nerves in the dog’s head, making it hard for them to close their mouth, leading to drooling.
- Mouth Ulcers: Tumors or other issues in the mouth or throat can cause drooling. If your dog has trouble swallowing, take them to the vet.
- Other Problems: Neuromuscular conditions, rabies, or infections can also cause excessive drooling. Some conditions are serious and need prompt medical attention.
Wrapping Up
It’s not normal for a Golden Retriever to drool excessively. If your dog drools a lot without being near food, it could be a sign of a problem. Some issues are minor, like something stuck between their teeth, but others can be life-threatening. if you need more information related to golden retriever wrapping up read this piece of article on elitewhitegoldens.com.
Is Excessive Drooling in Dogs an Emergency?
If your dog drools excessively due to a medical issue, it usually comes with other symptoms. Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog shows signs like vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, lethargy, loss of appetite, behavior changes, difficulty swallowing, or any other unusual symptoms.
How Do Vets Diagnose Excessive Drooling in Dogs?
To find out why your dog is drooling, the vet will examine your dog and check their mouth and neck. They may ask about your dog’s medical history and might suggest tests like bloodwork or X-rays.
Treatment of Excessive Drooling in Dogs
Treatment depends on the cause. It could include dental care, medications, surgery, or even radiation or chemotherapy if needed.
Preventing Excessive Drooling in Dogs
Preventing drooling depends on the cause. Basic tips include keeping your dog away from harmful foods and objects, transitioning slowly to new foods, and taking care of their oral health.
FAQs
- Do dogs drool when they have an upset stomach? Yes, dogs drool when they have an upset stomach. This can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. If your dog shows these signs, call your vet.
- Should I be worried if my dog is drooling? Sometimes, drooling is normal. But if it’s new or excessive, it could be a sign of a health issue like an upset stomach or dental disease. A vet visit can help determine the cause.
- Do dogs drool more as they age? Not usually. If your dog starts drooling a lot as they age, it could be due to conditions like arthritis or gum disease. It’s a good idea to visit the vet to find out why.
