It’s not unusual to see a dog drool a little, especially when food is around. But what if your dog is suddenly drooling a lot more than usual? It’s natural to feel worried. In some cases, excessive drooling can be a sign of a serious medical issue that needs immediate attention.
In this guide, we’ll explain what excessive drooling means, when it’s an emergency, and what you can do about it.
What Counts as Excessive Drooling in Dogs?
Some drooling is completely normal, especially for certain breeds like Saint Bernards or Bulldogs. But when your dog starts drooling more than usual, it may point to an issue that needs to be checked out.
Excessive drooling means your dog is producing more saliva than they usually do, and it often drips from their mouth or soaks their fur. It might come with other symptoms, like pawing at the mouth, bad breath, or vomiting.
Is Drooling Ever Normal in Dogs?
Yes, sometimes drooling is harmless. Your dog might drool when:
- They’re excited or nervous
- They smell or see food
- They’re car sick or nauseated
- They’re playing hard or panting heavily
These situations usually don’t last long, and your dog should go back to normal soon. But if the drooling continues or gets worse, it could mean something is wrong.
When Is Excessive Drooling an Emergency?
Excessive drooling in dogs can be an emergency if it happens suddenly and comes with other symptoms. It may point to poisoning, heatstroke, dental problems, or even something stuck in their throat. These are serious and need fast medical care.
If your dog shows any of the following signs along with drooling, don’t wait:
- Foaming at the mouth
- Swollen face or muzzle
- Trouble breathing
- Weakness or collapse
- Seizures
- Gagging or choking sounds
- Blood in saliva
These signs could mean your dog is in serious danger. If you’re not sure what’s going on, it’s best to visit a 24 hour emergency vet right away.
Common Causes of Sudden Excessive Drooling
Here are some of the most common reasons dogs might start drooling a lot all of a sudden:
1. Dental Disease or Mouth Injury
Dogs with sore gums, broken teeth, or an object stuck in their mouth may drool to try and ease the pain. You might also notice them avoiding food or chewing only on one side.
2. Poisoning or Toxin Exposure
Ingesting something toxic—like chocolate, grapes, cleaning supplies, or certain plants—can cause rapid drooling. This is your dog’s way of trying to flush the bad stuff out. You should contact an emergency vet clinic near you immediately.
3. Heatstroke
On hot days, dogs can overheat quickly. Heavy drooling, panting, and weakness are all signs of heatstroke, which is life-threatening. Cool your dog down and go straight to an emergency animal hospital.
4. Something Stuck in the Throat
Dogs love to chew, and sometimes small objects like toys, bones, or sticks get stuck in their throat or mouth. This can cause gagging, drooling, or pawing at the face. It’s a choking risk and must be handled urgently.
5. Nausea or Digestive Issues
Dogs can drool when they feel nauseated, whether it’s from car sickness or an upset stomach. If your dog vomits or acts weak, contact a 24/7 vet clinic to check for a deeper issue.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Drooling Excessively
Here’s a simple step-by-step plan if you notice your dog drooling a lot more than usual:
- Check your dog’s mouth for visible injuries or objects (but don’t stick your fingers in if your dog is panicking).
- Look for other symptoms like vomiting, shaking, or odd behavior.
- Try to remember if your dog could’ve eaten something strange or toxic.
- Call a local emergency vet or find a 24 hour animal hospital near you.
Time matters. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pet’s health.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Dogs can’t tell us what’s wrong, so we need to act fast when their behavior suddenly changes. Excessive drooling may seem harmless, but it could point to serious trouble. The earlier your dog gets checked, the better their chances of recovery.
That’s why it’s smart to know where your nearest emergency vet is, so you’re ready when minutes count.
How a 24 Hour Emergency Vet Can Help
A 24-hour vet clinic has the tools and experience to handle urgent cases—day or night. They’ll run tests, check for blockages, infections, or toxins, and give your dog the treatment they need right away.
If you’re unsure where to go, use 24houremergencyvet.com to find a reliable emergency animal hospital near you. They’ve helped countless pet owners get quick care when it mattered most.
Tips to Prevent Drooling Emergencies
While not all drooling issues can be avoided, here are a few tips to help reduce the risk:
- Keep harmful foods and chemicals out of reach
- Watch your dog when playing with toys or chewing bones
- Give regular dental care and checkups
- Keep your pet cool and hydrated in hot weather
- Use a safe space or carrier for car rides
Prevention goes a long way in keeping your dog happy and safe.
Still Not Sure? Don’t Wait
If your dog is drooling more than normal and you’re not sure what to do, don’t wait. Head to a 24 hour emergency vet clinic or call for advice. Quick action can save your dog’s life.
Conclusion
Excessive drooling in dogs isn’t always an emergency, but when it happens suddenly or comes with other worrying signs, it could be serious. Whether it’s heatstroke, poisoning, or something stuck in the throat, fast treatment can make all the difference.
Know the signs. Trust your gut. And always have a trusted vet contact ready.
Need urgent help? Visit 24houremergencyvet.com to find fast, reliable care near you—any time, day or night.
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