Ask The Dog Guide: Excessivly Salivating Dog.

June 30th, 2008 by Dan

Question:
I have 5 yr old female lab, and I recently got an 8wk old Airedale male. My lab is not displaying aggression, but is salivating excessively and getting ‘frothy’ at the mouth- she is up to date with shots. Could excitement be causing this behavior?

Answer:
Dogs often salivate when they smell something new or have a “strange” taste in their mouth. If she is salivating after licking the puppy, it is probably due to his scent being something new in your home. Dogs also salivate when they are anxious - big changes in her environment could also be the cause. Other causes of salivation are tooth issues and nausea. If both of these are ruled out, I am betting the behavior will wane as she gets used to your new pup. Good Luck!