When you’re a dog owner, drool comes with the job description. However, sometimes it may seem that your dog is drooling inexplicably. If you notice your dog drooling when visiting the dog park, you may be wondering why that is.
In this article, we will discuss eight reasons why your dog might drool at the dog park. We’ll also look at health issues that may be causing your dog to drool excessively and give you advice on when you should visit the vet.
The 8 reasons why your dog might drool at the dog park
1. pressure
Dog parks can be a lot of fun but they can also be overwhelming. If your dog is bombarded with sensory overload every time he visits the dog park, he may drool due to stress. To prevent this, determine what part of the dog park experience is stressful for your dog.
Is it the new environment or the other dogs? Once you identify the cause of the stress, you can work to reduce your dog’s sensitivity to the triggers. However, in some cases, it is best to avoid the situation altogether. For example, if another dog at the dog park is aggressive or cruel toward your dog, it may be in your best interest to find a new dog park.
2. Excitement
Does your dog wag his tail when he realizes he’s going to the dog park? If so, your dog will likely be drooling from excitement. Dog parks are exciting places! Your dog can run, play and make four-legged friends.
It can be difficult to get your dog to stop drooling due to excitement, but fortunately, this excessive drooling should be temporary. Once your dog is racing around the park, drooling won’t be a big problem.
3. Anxiety or fear
Drooling may also be due to anxiety and fear. Often times, dogs that are not properly socialized as puppies become stressed out at the dog park. Dog parks contain so many new sights, sounds, and people, that they may seem like heaven to a dog, but to an unsocialized dog, they are terrifying.
If a lack of socialization is causing your dog to be afraid of the dog park, it’s not too late to gradually expose him to new experiences so he can adapt. However, your dog may prefer your backyard or other area with fewer distractions to dog parks.
4. Nutritional response
With so many dog owners in one place, you can bet dog treats are around the corner. Whether you bring dog treats to the dog park or not, there’s a chance your dog has snuck into the dog park or accepted one from someone else. If this happens often, your dog may associate the dog park with treats and drool in anticipation.
If you’re sure your dog didn’t get a treat while at the park, consider the location of the park. Is it in a rural area or close to shops and restaurants? If the dog park is close enough to any establishments that serve food, your dog may be able to smell the food and salivate in response. Your dog has up to 300 Millions of olfactory receptors, so don’t underestimate how good they can smell!
5. nausea
Pay close attention to your dog’s drooling schedule. Does it start in the car and diminish the more time your dog spends in the park? If so, your dog is probably drooling not because of the dog park but because of a car ride.
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from Motion sickness. Nausea can make dogs drool. If your dog expects to feel nauseous, he may also be drooling due to stress or anxiety. To prevent this, you can work to reduce your dog’s sensitivity to car rides. The process takes time and effort, but the results are worth it.
6. heat
If your dog senses that it’s getting hot at the dog park, he may drool as a result. Pay close attention to your dog on hot days, and bring him plenty of water to drink. Dogs exposed to heat without any way to regulate internal temperatures can suffer from heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke.
sunstroke It is a medical emergency that can lead to organ failure. If you think your dog is in heat, move him to an air-conditioned area and call your vet.
7. They are physically prone to drooling
Some dog breeds are prone to drooling, so even the slightest amount of excitement can make them drool. This is because the anatomical structure of their mouth makes it difficult to keep saliva inside.
Some saliva strains include:
If your dog is a drooling breed, there is nothing you can do to prevent him from drooling. All you have to do is take extra steps to keep your dog (and your belongings) drool-free.
8. Foreign bodies or mouth injuries
It’s important to supervise your dog at the dog park for several reasons, including making sure he doesn’t get into something he shouldn’t. If your dog decides to gnaw on something sharp or brittle, he may get jagged pieces stuck in his mouth.
The foreign object becomes lodged in his mouth and the resulting injury may cause your dog to drool. If there is something stuck in your dog’s mouth, you need to visit your vet as soon as possible. Do not attempt to remove the item yourself, as you may cause further damage to your pet.
Health problems that may cause excessive drooling
If you believe Your dog is drooling excessively You should contact your vet immediately. Excessive drooling can indicate a serious medical condition, perhaps even a life-threatening problem. Some problems include digestive disorders, dental problems, neurological conditions, infections, burns, poisons, and toxins.
Gastrointestinal disorders
Dental issues
Neurological conditions
Burns
When your dog needs to see a vet
If you are concerned about your dog’s health, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Unlike that,
Seek help immediately if you notice the following signs:
Conclusion
Drooling isn’t the most fun part of being a dog owner, but a little drool is a small price to pay when spending time with our furry friends. We hope this list has taught you something new about your dog’s response to dog parks, and perhaps allowed you to cut back on your drooling a little. If you are concerned about your dog’s excessive drooling, do not delay in seeking veterinary care for your dog. Otherwise, have fun and experience the dog park with your friend!
Featured image credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock