A Loss of Appetite & Excessive Drooling in Dogs

Some dog breeds naturally drool a lot. However, excessive drooling in a dog accompanied by a loss of appetite are often the warning signs that a dog has ingested a toxin.

  1. Types of Toxins

    • Ethylene glycol, antifreeze, is potentially lethal to dogs even in miniscule amounts. The substance has a sweet flavor that attracts dogs, but once in the animal's system, it causes kidney damage and death. Insecticides and herbicides also contain chemicals that are highly toxic to dogs. Other dangerous substances include human medications, flea and tick products and toxic plants.

    Symptoms

    • In addition to excessive drooling and a loss of appetite, several other symptoms to watch out for include nausea and vomiting, generalized weakness and difficulty breathing. Depending upon the type of toxin and how much was ingested, the dog may also collapse, slip into a coma or die.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Keep medications and toxic chemicals out of the dog's reach. If the dog has ingested a toxin, call a veterinarian immediately and arrange to bring the animal in for an examination. As of 2010, poison advice is available through the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Hotline at 888-426-4435 for a $65 consultation fee.