At a glance
- Newfoundlands drool excessively due to their loose lips and jowls, which cannot effectively contain saliva
- Normal drooling increases with heat, excitement, eating, or drinking and is part of the breed standard
- Sudden changes in drooling patterns, especially with blood or foul odour, require veterinary attention
- Daily management with absorbent bandanas and regular face wiping can effectively control the mess
You might notice your Newfoundland leaving wet spots wherever they rest, or perhaps you've grown accustomed to wiping drool from your walls after an enthusiastic head shake. Many owners wonder if this constant salivation is normal or if there's something they can do about it.
The truth is, your dog's drooling is primarily a biomechanical reality rather than a health concern. Understanding why it happens and when to worry can help you manage this messy but normal trait more effectively.
Why these dogs drool so much
The excessive drooling comes down to anatomy. Newfoundlands have large, loose lips called "flews" and prominent jowls that simply cannot retain saliva effectively. This extra skin around the mouth and muzzle acts like a collection pouch, gathering saliva that then drips or gets flung when your dog shakes their head.
This trait isn't unique to the breed. Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, and Bloodhounds share this same anatomical feature and the resulting drooling tendency. It's actually part of the breed standard, meaning it's an intentional characteristic that cannot be trained away.
Normal drooling increases predictably with certain triggers. Heat causes dogs to produce more saliva as part of their cooling mechanism. Excitement, hunger, or anticipation of food also ramp up saliva production. After drinking water, you'll often notice increased dripping as the mouth structure cannot contain the extra moisture.
Recognising normal versus concerning drooling
Normal drooling in these dogs follows predictable patterns tied to their daily routine and environment. However, sudden or excessive drooling beyond their usual baseline can signal health issues requiring veterinary attention.
Watch for warning signs that indicate abnormal drooling. A sudden increase in salivation, especially if your dog starts drooling much more than usual, warrants investigation for foreign objects, dental problems, or illness. Blood or foul odour in the saliva may indicate mouth injuries, infections, or tumours.
Changes in appetite or behaviour alongside increased drooling could suggest nausea, pain, or systemic illness. Thick, bloody, or discoloured saliva may point to infection or toxicity. Most concerning are difficulty swallowing or breathing, which require immediate emergency veterinary care.
Health conditions that increase salivation
While anatomy is the primary cause, several health issues can worsen drooling beyond normal levels. Dental problems top the list, including tartar buildup, gum disease, broken teeth, or oral tumours that increase saliva production.
Foreign bodies stuck in the mouth are common culprits for sudden drooling episodes. Sticks, plant material, or other objects lodged between teeth or in the throat trigger immediate hypersalivation. Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, acid reflux, or abdominal pain also cause excessive drooling as the body's response to discomfort.
Toxicity from ingesting harmful substances often presents with drooling alongside vomiting and lethargy. Heatstroke can lead to excessive salivation as your dog attempts to cool down. Less commonly, neurological or congenital conditions may contribute to abnormal drooling patterns.
Daily management strategies that work
You cannot stop a Newfoundland from drooling due to their anatomy, but effective management makes living with this trait much easier. The key is accepting this characteristic while implementing practical solutions to protect your home and keep your dog comfortable.
Regular face wiping becomes part of your daily routine. Use a soft, absorbent cloth or dedicated "drool rag" to wipe your dog's muzzle throughout the day, especially after eating, drinking, or exercise. Gently clean the folds around the mouth during face washing to prevent skin irritation and odour buildup.
High-absorbency bandanas or dog bibs catch saliva before it reaches your floors or furniture. Products like the "Drool Boss" or "Kurgo Drool Towel" typically cost between $10-30 and can significantly reduce household mess. Look for machine-washable, quick-drying materials that fit comfortably without irritating your dog's skin.
Floor protection in your dog's favourite resting spots helps contain the inevitable drips. Washable mats or towels placed strategically around your home make cleanup much simpler.
Preventing health-related drooling problems
Routine dental care prevents many oral health issues that could worsen drooling. Regular tooth brushing and professional cleanings keep gums healthy and reduce the risk of infections or dental disease that increase salivation.
Regular mouth inspections help you catch problems early. Check for foreign objects, especially if drooling suddenly increases after walks or outdoor play. Keep harmful foods, plants, and chemicals out of reach to prevent toxicity-related drooling episodes.
Heat stress prevention is crucial, particularly given these dogs' thick coats and tendency toward overheating. Provide adequate shade and fresh water, and avoid strenuous exercise during hot weather. Monitor for excessive panting and drooling that might indicate dangerous overheating.
When professional help is needed
Consult your veterinarian if you notice sudden, unexplained increases in drooling that persist beyond normal triggers like meals or excitement. Blood, pus, or foul odour in the saliva always warrants professional evaluation.
Loss of appetite, vomiting, or behavioural changes accompanying increased drooling suggest underlying health issues. Difficulty swallowing or breathing requires immediate emergency care, as these symptoms can indicate serious obstructions or allergic reactions.
Signs of pain or distress, such as pawing at the mouth, reluctance to eat, or unusual head positioning, need prompt veterinary attention. Early intervention often prevents minor issues from becoming serious health problems.
Living successfully with a drooling breed
Veterinary experts agree that drooling in Newfoundlands is normal due to their anatomy, but sudden changes always warrant investigation. There's no medical treatment to reduce normal drooling, but good management and preventive care keep both dog and home comfortable.
The most successful approach involves accepting this breed trait rather than fighting it. Invest in quality absorbent gear to make daily life easier, and stay proactive with grooming and health checks to prevent secondary issues.
Know the warning signs of abnormal drooling, and don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian when patterns change unexpectedly. Early detection of health problems consistently improves outcomes and can save you from more serious complications down the road.
By understanding the anatomical reasons behind your dog's drooling and implementing these practical management strategies, you can maintain a cleaner home while ensuring your companion stays healthy and comfortable.
