Home remedies for dog drooling are a valuable tool for pet owners. Effective dog drooling DIY remedies can be a simple and effective way to manage the issue without having to visit the vet or seek commercial solutions.
Coming back to furniture or dog beds soaked in drool is not fun. Luckily, home solutions for drooling are simple. For example, using a canine mouth rinse to reduce drooling resulting from dental issues is an accessible remedy.
Natural drooling remedies need you to get to the root of the issue and address that to see a change in the drooling. Experts like Vanesa Farmer, DVM, address dog drooling causes and solutions, as we’ll see later in the article.
So, what are some home remedies for dog drooling?
Dog drooling can be a normal physiological response or a sign of an underlying health issue. Some drooling remedies include hydrating your dog, improving your dog’s oral hygiene, keeping a piece of clothing in hand to dry out the drool, and creating a stress-free environment for your dog. You can also consider getting a non-drooling breed if drooling is an absolute no for you.
Pavlov’s experiment on dog drooling is one of the most famous experiments on classical conditioning. Also, some breeds, like Great Danes, Rotties, Mastiffs, and Bulldogs drool more than others. So there’s only so much you can do about their drooling. Still, excessive drooling can be uncomfortable and messy for both the dog and its owner.
DIY remedies are a cheap, time-saving solution to some common doggy issues owners experience. We’ve covered other home remedies for colds, hair loss, bad breath, and stomach upsets, which you can check out if your pup struggles with these.
Overall, several home remedies can help reduce dog drooling and improve their overall health. However, if your dog’s drooling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, it is essential to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
11 Home Remedies for Dog Drooling
Dogs drool for various reasons, and excessive drooling can indicate an underlying health issue. However, in some cases, it may be a harmless condition that can be treated at home. Here are some home remedies for dog drooling:
To stop your dog from drooling excessively, it is vital to identify the underlying cause and address it accordingly. Causes include stress, dental issues, breed susceptibility, and illnesses, as stated in a later section.
1. Hydrate Your Dog
Dehydration can cause excessive drooling in dogs. Studies link hypersalivation to dehydration because the dog is trying to cool down the best way they know how through panting.
Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times, especially during hot weather or after exercise. You can also dip some ice cubes into the bowl to encourage your dog to drink water and reduce drooling.
2. Dietary Changes
Certain foods can cause excessive drooling in dogs. Avoid giving your dog spicy or fatty foods, which can stimulate the salivary glands. Instead, feed your dog a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients.
This may also include switching to a diet that promotes oral health, such as specially designed kibble. Additionally, identifying and eliminating food allergens through a hypoallergenic diet can alleviate allergic reactions that may lead to excessive drooling in some dogs.
Since this is a complex process, you may need to consult your vet on the necessary dietary changes.
3. Improve their Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene can cause excessive drooling in dogs. Ensure you brush your dog’s teeth regularly and use dental chews or canine mouth rinses to help keep their teeth clean. Chew toys and the occasional bones can help with oral health. However, don’t let your dog chew unafe foreign objects like sticks.
Additionally, home remedies such as feeding your dog crunchy vegetables or fruits can help to clean their teeth and promote healthy oral hygiene.
4. Reduce stress
Several factors, such as loud noises or separation anxiety, can trigger stress. This anxiety, in turn, causes dogs to drool more than they normally would due to the increased panting. You’ll see signs of fear like tucked-in tail and depression symptoms like withdrawing if stress causes drooling.
Home remedies such as calming music or aromatherapy can help to soothe your dog and reduce their anxiety levels, which in turn can reduce their drooling.
However, with aromatherapy, stick to lavender, chamomile, bergamot, and ylang-ylang oils. Add 1 drop of essential oil for 4oz water (118ml) into the diffuser for safe canine aromatherapy. Also, avoid unsafe oils and compounds like rosemary, incense, citrus oil, peppermint oil, and tea tree oil.
5. Herbal Remedies
Certain herbs can help reduce drooling in dogs. For example, chamomile and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce drooling. You can give your dog chamomile tea or ginger root to help reduce drooling.
The internet will recommend ingredients to help with drooling, which can be unsafe or ineffective. For example, some sites suggest using lemon juice for drooling, which is unsuitable for dogs due to high citric acid levels. Veterinary sources agree that citric acid is very toxic to dogs.
Additionally, apple cider vinegar is another popular home remedy, which is not bad for dogs, but there isn’t convincing scientific evidence to back its benefits.
6. Train your dog to wipe their face (bib training)
Teaching your dog to wipe their face can help reduce drooling. You can use a towel or a bib and train your dog to wipe their face after eating or drinking. We have addressed how to train your dog to use a Bib in the following sections.
7. The bandana trick
Tying a bandana around a dog’s neck can be a practical way to reduce drooling by helping to keep the area around the mouth and neck clean and dry. The bandana can absorb and contain drool, preventing it from dripping onto the dog’s fur or the environment.
However, it’s essential to choose a breathable and comfortable fabric, ensure it’s not too tight to avoid discomfort or restricted airflow, and regularly check and clean the bandana to prevent skin irritation or odors.
8. Address Nausea and Tummy Issues
Nausea and tummy issues can cause excessive drooling in dogs. If your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea, it is crucial to address the underlying issue. You can give your dog probiotics or other natural remedies to help soothe their stomach, such as home remedies for a gassy stomach.
9. Keep a drool cloth nearby
Keeping a drool cloth nearby can help reduce messes caused by excessive drooling. You can use a soft cloth or a towel to wipe your dog’s mouth and prevent drool from getting on your furniture or floors.
10. Reduce excitement
Excitement, particularly anticipating food, can cause excessive drooling in dogs. Try to keep your dog calm and avoid situations that can cause them to become overly excited.
11. Reduce Heat Exposure
Heat exposure can cause excessive drooling in dogs. Ensure your dog has access to shade and cool water during hot weather. Avoid leaving your dog in a hot car or direct sunlight for extended periods.
Remember, if your dog’s drooling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is essential to consult a veterinarian.
How to Train Your Dog To Wipe Off Their Drool (Bib Training)
Drooling is a common issue for many dogs and can be a nuisance for pet owners. One way to address this problem is by training your dog to wipe off their drool. This is also known as bib training. The video below shows how to train your dog to wipe their mouth:
Understanding Dog Drooling : Normal Vs. Excessive Drooling
Dogs drool, and it’s a natural part of their lives. It’s a way to keep their mouths moist and to help them digest their food. However, there is a difference between normal drooling and excessive drooling.
Normal drooling occurs when a dog is hungry, excited, or anticipating food. It’s also normal for dogs to drool when they are hot or panting. However, excessive drooling can be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Causes of Excessive Drooling
A variety of factors can cause excessive drooling. Some of the most common causes include:
- Dental Issues: If a dog has dental issues, such as gum disease or a tooth abscess, it can cause excessive drooling.
- Breeds Prone to Drooling: Some breeds, like Bulldogs, Saint Bernards, or Bloodhounds, naturally drool more due to their genetics and facial structure. While you can’t change their genetics, you can manage drooling by keeping their face clean and dry.
- Nausea: Dogs may drool excessively if they are feeling nauseous or have an upset stomach.
- Poisoning: If a dog has ingested something toxic, it can cause excessive drooling. This will look like foaming at the mouth.
- Heatstroke: If a dog is suffering from heatstroke, it can cause excessive drooling.
- Anxiety: Dogs may drool if they are anxious or stressed.
- Excessive Salivation Disorder: Certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy or neurological disorders, can lead to excessive salivation. These require veterinary attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
It’s important to note that excessive drooling can also be a symptom of more serious health issues, such as rabies or distemper. If a dog is drooling excessively and is also exhibiting other symptoms, such as lethargy or vomiting, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
When to Consult a Vet About Your Dog’s Drooling
Signs of Serious Health Issues
Even though drooling is normal for dogs, excessive drooling can be a sign of serious health issues. If the dog is drooling excessively and is experiencing other symptoms, it is important to consult a vet immediately. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Loss of appetite;
- Vomiting;
- Diarrhea;
- Lethargy;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Swelling of the mouth or face;
- Bleeding from the mouth; and
- Seizures.
If the dog is drooling excessively and is experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Delaying medical attention can worsen the condition and lead to more severe health issues.
Importance of Regular Check-ups
Regular check-ups with a vet can help identify any underlying health issues that may be causing excessive drooling in dogs. During a check-up, the vet will physically examine the dog, which can help identify any issues that may be causing the excessive drooling. The vet may also recommend diagnostic tests, such as blood work or X-rays, to further evaluate the dog’s health.
In addition to identifying health issues, regular check-ups can also help prevent health problems from developing in the first place. The vet can provide advice on proper nutrition, exercise, and dental care, which can all help prevent health issues that may cause excessive drooling in dogs.
It is recommended to schedule regular check-ups with a vet at least once a year or more frequently for senior dogs or those with underlying health issues. By staying on top of the dog’s health, owners can help ensure that any health issues are identified and treated promptly, which can help prevent more severe health issues from developing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I stop my dog from drooling excessively?
What are some natural remedies for excessive dog drooling?
What causes sudden excessive drooling and licking in dogs?
What are some home remedies for dog drooling and vomiting?
Why would a dog suddenly start drooling excessively?
What can I give my dog to reduce drooling?
Final Thoughts
Home remedies for dog drooling can effectively reduce excessive drooling in dogs. However, it is essential to note that these remedies should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care. If a dog’s drooling is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately.
Some of the most effective home remedies for dog drooling include giving the dog ice cubes to chew on, feeding smaller and more frequent meals, and providing a calm and stress-free environment for the dog. It is important to remember that not all home remedies will work for every dog.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.