How to Control Drooling

Drooling is a reflex caused by the sight of food, excitement or an underlying medical condition. Some dog breeds such as Saint Bernards or English bulldogs tend to drool more than others due to the way their lips are positioned. Drooling is normal in dogs, but hypersalivation or excessive drooling may be a sign of an underlying condition. Drooling may be disturbing, especially if the saliva lands on your carpets and furniture, so you can find means to control it. However, you can't stop drooling completely.

Things You'll Need

  • Bandanas or baby bibs
  • Absorbent tissues or sponges
  • Carpet or rug
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fold a bandana in two along the diagonal of the bandana, to obtain a triangle. Alternatively, use a baby bib. The bandana should be made of cotton or an absorbent material. Avoid nylon and synthetic materials, which don't absorb moisture and may cause discomfort or rashes on the dog's skin.

    • 2

      Tie the bandana around your dog's neck. This absorbs the saliva that comes from the dog's mouth.

    • 3

      Check the bandana and change it when it is soaked. The changing frequency depends on how much your dog drools.

    • 4

      Wipe off the saliva from around the dog's mouth regularly to prevent the saliva from getting on your furniture when the dog shakes its head. Use absorbent tissues or a sponge that you clean after each use.

    • 5

      Place a small absorbent carpet or rug under the dog when it relaxes or watches TV with you.

    • 6

      Use homeopathic remedies such as a few drops of lemon extract in your dog's water. Lemon extracts dry the mouth and reduce drooling. Check with your vet prior to administering homeopathic remedies to ensure they don't affect your dog's health.