It is quite unsettling to see your dog barking and drooling, especially if you’re not sure what’s causing the behavior.
So, what causes dog barking and drooling? Is it normal? And what should you do?
We’ll go over the various reasons why dog barking and drooling happens, tips for addressing this behavior, and when to seek help.
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Here’s why dog barking and drooling happens
Dog barking and drooling happens due to excitement, medical conditions, separation anxiety, fear, and a breed’s drooling traits. This is a normal behavior in dogs, and may not always indicate a problem, however, it can also be a sign of an underlying medical problem or behavioral issue.
Common Reasons For Dog Barking And Drooling
Dog barking and drooling can be caused by a combination of factors, and the specific cause can vary from one dog to another, therefore it is important to consider all possible causes in order to determine the most appropriate course of action.
The common causes of dog barking and drooling include:
Excitement or arousal
Dogs may bark and drool as a way to express their excitement or when they are stimulated by something, such as a new toy or a treat.
This is a normal behavior and is not usually cause for concern.
When excited, a dog may produce more saliva due to an increase in activity in the salivary glands and they may also bark more due to an increase in energy and arousal.
These behaviors are typically temporary and subside once the excitement has passed.
Medical conditions
In some cases, dog barking and drooling may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
This includes conditions such as a dental problem, poisoning, gastrointestinal issue or a neurological condition which can lead to increased salivation and cause a dog to be more vocal.
Separation anxiety
Some dogs may bark and drool when they are left alone or separated from their owners, which can be a sign of separation anxiety.
Other behaviors due to separation anxiety include pacing, crying or whining, urinating, defecating, and destructive behavior such as digging or chewing items.
Fear or stress
Dogs may bark and drool when they are fearful or stressed, due to loud noise such as noise from a thunderstorm or fireworks display. This is a natural response to a perceived threat.
During times of fear or stress, a dog may produce more saliva and they may also bark more due to an increase in arousal and anxiety.
These behaviors are also usually accompanied by other signs of fear or stress, such as panting, whining, trembling, or hiding.
Breed
Barking and drooling is an inherited trait that are present in certain dog breeds. Some dogs naturally drool more than others and when they bark, these two behaviors are present.
This barking and drooling for these breeds is natural and is not usually a cause for concern.
Related: Dog barking and coughing (Explained)
What to do when your dog is barking and drooling
Check for signs of injury or illness
Excessive drooling can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, including dental problems, mouth or throat injuries, digestive issues, and infections. If your dog’s drooling is accompanied by other symptoms, such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s important to see a veterinarian.
Monitor your dog’s behavior.If your dog is acting normally, eating and drinking normally, and seems comfortable, then the drooling may not be a cause for concern. However, if your dog is not acting like themselves or seems to be in pain, seek veterinary attention.
Consider environmental factors
Dogs bark and drool due to fear, anxiety, or excitement. Therefore assess the circumstances in which your dog is displaying this behavior and identify the specific triggers that cause it.
It can be due to a new environment, being exposed to something that scares them, or anticipation for a treat or activity, they causes them to bark and drool more than usual.
Once you have a better understanding of their behavior you can act in a way that is appropriate to meet your dog’s needs such as:
- Providing a safe, quiet place for your dog to retreat to during times of fear or stress which can help reduce their anxiety.
- Working with a veterinarian or a certified dog trainer to develop a plan to manage their fear or anxiety
Consult with a veterinarian
If your dog’s barking and drooling is severe or persistent, seek the help of a veterinarian. The veterinarian will examine your dog and determine the cause of your dog’s barking and drooling any underlying health issues.
They will recommend the appropriate treatment or refer you to a certified dog trainer to develop a comprehensive plan to address the excessive barking.
It is also important to immediately seek medical attention if your dog’s barking and drooling is:
Excessive: Consult with your veterinarian if your dog’s barking and drooling is excessive or if you notice any changes in their barking and drooling behavior.
Accompanied by other signs of distress: If your dog is exhibiting other signs of distress or discomfort such as panting, pacing, or hiding, seek medical attention. These may be indications of an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.
Unusual or sudden: Generally, if you are concerned about your dog’s barking and drooling behavior, err on the side of caution and consult your veterinarian for guidance.
The veterinarian will help determine the cause of the behavior and recommend the appropriate treatment to address the problem.
Key Takeaway: Dog barking and drooling
Barking and drooling in dogs can be a normal behavior in certain circumstances, such as when they are excited or stimulated by something. However, excessive barking and drooling can also be a sign of a medical problem or an underlying issue.
If you are concerned about your dog’s barking and drooling behavior, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues and to determine the cause of the behavior.
The vetenarian will recommend the appropriate treatment to address the problem and also provide ways to help manage your dog’s barking and drooling effectively.