How To Stop A Bulldog From Excessive Drooling

Bulldogs are known for their wrinkly faces and charming personalities, but there’s one trait that many owners struggle with: excessive drooling.

Did you know that bulldogs can produce up to 2 to 4 times more saliva than other dog breeds? It’s a lot to manage, especially if your furry friend drools on the furniture, clothes, or worse—your guests!

If you’ve been wiping up puddles of drool constantly, you’re not alone. But don’t worry, there are ways to reduce it, and we’ve got the tips to help you keep your bulldog’s drool in check.

Why Do Bulldogs Drool So Much?

Bulldogs are known for their drooling, but why is it so common? The main reason comes down to their physical structure. Bulldogs have short noses and a unique mouth shape that can cause excessive saliva production.

The incidence of salivary gland disease in dogs is reported to be low, at less than 1%, with tumors accounting for approximately 30% of these cases.

This isn’t always a sign of a health problem, but sometimes drooling can be a symptom of an underlying issue.

Bulldogs have a brachycephalic skull, meaning their faces are pushed in. This design makes their mouths a bit more open and can lead to more drool. Additionally, the folds and wrinkles on their faces can trap moisture, making it harder for them to stay dry.

However, there are other factors, including:

• Temperature: Bulldogs can drool more in hot weather as they struggle to regulate their body temperature.
• Excitement or anxiety: Just like people sweat when they’re nervous, dogs might drool when they’re excited or stressed.

Understanding why your bulldog drools can be the first step in managing it.

Is Drooling Always a Sign of Health Problems?

Most of the time, drooling isn’t anything to worry about. But if your bulldog’s drool seems excessive or changes suddenly, it’s essential to check for health problems. Here are some things to look out for:

• Dental Issues: Infected teeth or gum problems can lead to more drooling. Look out for bad breath or difficulty eating.
• Infections: If the drooling is accompanied by a swollen face or fever, your dog might have an infection in the mouth or throat.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Excessive drooling can sometimes be a sign of nausea or digestive problems, especially if they start drooling more around meal times.

If you notice any changes or are concerned about your dog’s health, it’s a good idea to get them checked by a vet.

About 67% of dogs without an oral hygiene routine developed periodontitis after 60 weeks, highlighting the link between dental health and drooling.

Can Diet Play a Role in Drooling?

Yes, your bulldog’s diet can influence how much they drool. Certain foods might trigger more saliva production. For example, wet food or especially fatty foods can cause your dog to salivate more than dry kibble.

Consider switching to a high-quality, balanced diet that suits your bulldog’s needs. Some owners find that:

• Smaller, more frequent meals can prevent the stomach from getting too full, which can reduce excess saliva.
• Hydration is key. Make sure your dog has fresh water available throughout the day to keep their mouth from drying out and increasing drool production.

It might also help to adjust their diet to include foods with higher fiber content, which can reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

How Can You Help Reduce Drooling in Bulldogs?

Even though drooling is natural for bulldogs, there are steps you can take to manage it. Here are some practical tips:

• Keep their face clean: Regularly wipe the wrinkles on your bulldog’s face with a clean cloth. This can prevent moisture buildup and reduce irritation.
• Hydrate properly: Make sure your dog always has access to clean water, especially in hot weather. Dehydration can cause them to drool more.
• Use a drool bib or bandana: These accessories can help keep your bulldog dry while adding some extra cuteness to their look!
• Cool down: During hot weather, keep your bulldog cool with air conditioning or cooling mats. This can reduce drooling caused by overheating.
• Manage stress and anxiety: If your bulldog drools when stressed, try providing calming toys or using pheromone sprays to help relax them.

By managing the environmental factors and routine care, you can reduce the amount of drool your bulldog produces daily.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, 87.7% of dogs exhibited excessive drooling behaviors, indicating a significant behavioral change due to altered routines and stress.

Could A Medical Condition Be Causing Excessive Drooling?

If your bulldog’s drooling seems abnormal or worsens, it could be linked to medical conditions. Here are some common conditions to look out for:

• Oral Infections or Abscesses: These can cause pain, swelling, and excessive drooling. If your bulldog has trouble eating or seems to have swollen gums, a vet visit is a must.
• Mouth Tumors: Although rare, tumors in the mouth can lead to excessive salivation. This is more likely if drooling is accompanied by a noticeable change in your dog’s behavior.
• Heat Stroke: Bulldogs are more prone to overheating due to their short noses, so they can drool excessively when they’re in danger of heat stroke. Make sure they stay in a cool environment and avoid strenuous exercise during hot days.

Always consult your vet if you notice any sudden or drastic changes in your bulldog’s drooling patterns.

Can Regular Exercise Help with Drooling?

Regular exercise can actually help reduce drooling in bulldogs. While it might sound counterintuitive, getting your dog moving can help them regulate their temperature better and prevent overheating. This is especially important for bulldogs, who can struggle with breathing during intense heat.

However, be mindful of how much exercise they get. Bulldogs can easily overheat, so it’s best to:

• Exercise early in the morning or late in the evening, when it’s cooler.
• Keep play sessions short and monitor your dog for signs of fatigue or heat stress.
• Take breaks often to offer water and cool down your bulldog during play.

By encouraging regular, moderate exercise, you’ll help your bulldog stay healthy and comfortable, which can also reduce excess drooling.

Are There Products to Help Control Drooling?

Yes! Several products on the market can help manage excessive drooling in bulldogs. Here are some items that might make life a little easier:

• Absorbent Mats: Place them around your bulldog’s favorite spots to catch drool before it makes a mess.
• Dental Wipes or Sprays: These can help with mouth hygiene, preventing infections that may cause excessive drooling.
• Cooling Vests: If your bulldog struggles with heat, a cooling vest can help regulate their body temperature and reduce drooling caused by overheating.
• Saliva-Reducing Treats: Some treats are designed to help with drool control by promoting oral health and reducing saliva production.

While these products can help, remember that they work best when combined with proper care and vet-approved solutions.

Should You Consult a Vet About Drooling?

If your bulldog’s drooling is causing you concern or seems to be linked to health issues, it’s always wise to check in with your vet. Sometimes, excessive drooling can be a sign of something more serious that needs medical attention. A vet can check for:

• Infections: They can identify any oral or throat infections that might be making your bulldog salivate more.
• Dehydration: If your bulldog isn’t drinking enough water, it can lead to increased drooling.
• Underlying Diseases: Conditions like kidney disease or neurological issues can cause excessive drooling.

Your vet can perform an exam and recommend treatments to help your bulldog stay comfortable.

How Can You Prevent Drooling in the Future?

While it’s tough to prevent drooling entirely, especially in a breed like the bulldog, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the chances of future issues:

• Healthy Diet and Lifestyle: Ensure your bulldog eats a nutritious diet and gets plenty of exercise to maintain overall health.
• Regular Vet Visits: Keep up with your vet appointments to spot any potential health issues early on.
• Keep Cool in Summer: Bulldogs are particularly prone to heat-related drooling, so always ensure they’re staying cool during hot months.

With the right care, you can keep your bulldog healthy and manage their drooling more effectively.

Wrapping It Up: Drooling Doesn’t Have to Be a Mess!

Drooling may be a natural part of owning a bulldog, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. By understanding why your dog drools and implementing a few key strategies, you can keep it under control.

Keep their face clean, adjust their diet, and take steps to manage stress and temperature. And if you ever have concerns, don’t hesitate to visit your vet. With a little attention, you and your bulldog can enjoy a mess-free, happy life!

References

Excessive Dog Drooling in Your Canine Companion – Broomfield Veterinary Hospital

Top 7 Reasons For Excessive Drooling In Dogs: Hypersalivation – Kingsdale

Dog Drooling: When is This a Concern? – Veterinary Emergency Group

Why is my dog drooling? – Vets Now

Reasons for Excessive Dog Drooling and Why You Should Be Worried – Cloud 9 Vets

Disclaimer

This content on Bagrica is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for pet care or farming advice. Bagrica is not liable for any actions taken based on this information.

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