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Dog of the Day: Olaf!

Meme of the day:

Why Do Dogs Drool?

Drool, that sometimes endearing, sometimes messy, canine quirk, is a natural physiological process with various triggers.

Anticipation of Food: One of the most common reasons for drooling is the anticipation of food. The sight, smell, or even thought of a tasty treat can trigger salivation, preparing the dog's digestive system for incoming food. This is a Pavlovian response, a reflex triggered by an anticipated stimulus. [1]

Oral Health: Dental issues, such as gum disease, tooth decay, or oral injuries, can cause excessive drooling. Discomfort or pain in the mouth can stimulate saliva production. [2]

Excitement and Anxiety: Emotional states like excitement, anxiety, or fear can also lead to increased drooling. This is often linked to the sympathetic nervous system response, which can trigger physiological changes like increased salivation. [3]

Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as nausea, heatstroke, or neurological disorders, can cause excessive drooling. If drooling is accompanied by other symptoms or a sudden change in behavior, it's important to consult a veterinarian. [4]

Breed Predisposition: Some dog breeds are naturally prone to drooling due to their facial structure or lip conformation. Brachycephalic breeds (those with short, flat faces) like Bulldogs and Mastiffs, and breeds with loose lips like Bloodhounds, are known for their drooling tendencies. [5]

While a certain amount of drooling is normal for dogs, excessive or sudden changes in drooling can indicate an underlying issue. If you're concerned about your dog's drooling, it's always best to seek veterinary advice.

References:

[1] Pavlov, I. P. (1927). Conditioned reflexes. Oxford University Press. [2] Wiggs, R. B., & Lobprise, H. B. (2005). Veterinary dentistry: Principles and practice. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. [3] Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of clinical behavioral medicine for dogs and cats. Elsevier Health Sciences. [4] Landsberg, G. M., Hunthausen, W., & Ackerman, L. (2013). Behavior problems of the dog and cat. Elsevier Health Sciences. [5] American Kennel Club (AKC). (n.d.). The complete dog book. Ballantine Books.

Family photo of the day: Xena!  

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Dog of the day: brunovalentinethefrenchi on instagram

Meme of the day: basset_hound_gram on instagram