If you notice that your dog is drooling more than usual or is drooling when he usually doesn’t drool, you will want to consider a few things. If there is any reason that your dog can be experiencing anxiety, it may be leading to his drooling. You can take steps to alleviate the anxiety he is experiencing; for example, make sure he is getting enough exercise and if there are new people or animals in the home, make sure he is receiving enough attention.
Should it be very hot and your dog has been outdoors for some time, it is possible his drooling is the result of heat stroke. You will want to look out for panting and fatigue as well as whether he is breathing well or struggling to do so. After offering him cool water, getting him into the shade or air conditioning, and wetting his body to help him cool down, you can contact your veterinarian and possibly bring your dog in for an examination.
Should anxiety or heat not be a factor, it is a good idea to take your dog to the veterinarian so that he can be examined and your veterinarian can determine if there are any physical health issues that are leading to his increased drooling. Your veterinarian will conduct a complete physical examination that includes his mouth. While looking closely at his mouth, your veterinarian will determine if there is any irritation present as well as if your dog has any periodontal disease or abscesses. If irritation is present, your veterinarian may recommend further testing to determine what is causing it.
If the physical examination points to a health condition that is getting in the way of your dog swallowing, your veterinarian will likely recommend additional testing in order to make a diagnosis. A complete blood count (CBC) and serum chemistry profile are often conducted, particularly if kidney or liver disease is suspected. Should your veterinarian be concerned about an obstruction in your dog’s esophagus, he may look at the color of your dog’s bile to determine the pH level to understand if your dog is vomiting or regurgitating. Thoracic radiographs and fluoroscopy may also be used. If a neurological condition is suspected, MRI scans, X-rays and ultrasounds may help show any abnormalities that are in the brain or spinal cord.