Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 7/13/2008

Question
I volunteer at a humane society. One days Black lab, about 9 months old came in as a stray. He is not neutered, yet. When he first came in we noticed in the parking lot he was drooling. We thought it may because of nervousness, sensory overload, or maybe he ate something. He has been with us for about 2 months now. He is always drooling. He is not nervous he is a hyper puppy, and gets tied out in the same area everyday, leading me to belive that its not sensory stimulation. No vomiting, or other weird symptoms. Its just plain drool, until he goes outside then it gets foamy. He is always drooling, no matter where he is, or what the temperature. Other than that he is a normal pup. Any ideas?

Answer
Sarah -

Perhaps the pup has a gastrointestinal problem or an infected tooth.  Both can cause a dog to salivate heavily.  It is difficult to determine the cause without examining the pet.    Recommend that the people at the  shelter have him examined by a veterinarian to find out why he is drooling excessively.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM