Excessive drooling can be normal in some breeds—but sudden, heavy, nonstop drooling is a major red flag. Many medical issues can trigger hypersalivation, but poison exposure is one of the most dangerous causes and requires fast action.

Below is a breakdown of the most common reasons a dog might drool excessively—and which signs suggest a possible poisoning emergency.

📍 1. Toxic Plants, Foods, or Chemicals

Dogs often chew leaves, grass, or objects in the yard. Many plants and household chemicals cause irritation or burning of the mouth → instant drooling.

Common toxins:

• Sago palm

• Oleander

• Pothos

• Bleach, cleaning sprays

• Essential oils

Warning signs: pawing at mouth, vomiting, tremors.

📍 2. Medication or Pest-Control Poisoning

Ingesting human medications, rodent poison, or pesticides can cause severe drooling before progressing to life-threatening symptoms.

Other signs: pale gums, wobbling, seizures.

📍 3. Mouth or Throat Injury

Chewing sharp objects, bones, sticks, or toys can cut the gums or lodge splinters—causing saliva to pool.

Other signs: refusing food, whimpering, bleeding.

📍 4. Heatstroke

Overheating causes heavy panting → hypersalivation.

Signs: red gums, collapse, rapid heartbeat.

📍 5. Nausea or GI Upset

Motion sickness, stomach irritation, and infections can also cause waves of drooling.

Look for: licking lips, swallowing repeatedly.

📍 6. Dental Disease (Advanced)

Severe tartar, abscesses, and gum infection can trigger constant drooling.

Warning signs: foul breath, swollen gums, loose teeth.

🆘 When Drooling = EMERGENCY

Seek urgent veterinary care if you see:

• Sudden massive drooling

• Shaking, tremors, stumbling

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Swollen mouth or tongue

• Ingestion of chemicals or unknown plants

Poisoning progresses fast—minutes matter.