Dog Drooling In Car: Why This Happens?

Here we have an interesting and important topic most dog owners will want to learn about. A dog drooling in a car is a common issue and it can affect many dogs every single time they are driving in the car. Below we are going to explain why this happens and also what you can do in order to solve the problem.

Conditions Causing a Dog To Drool In A Car

A dog drooling in a car is simply known as ptyalism and it is more common than we would like to see. The most common reason why this happens is motion sickness. Simply said, a dog doesn’t feel comfortable when moving in a car and he will also show other signs. He won’t be able to control his bladder, he will lick his lips and he will even vomit. For them, driving in a car is stressful and therefore far from a pleasant thing.

You will have to take your pet to a vet and rule out any of the more severe issues that are causing drooling. It is common that your pet will drool all the time, not only when in a car. Once you are certain that there are no more severe causes, the one that is left is motion sickness. Below we are sharing a few things you can do to help your pet.

We must add that excessive drooling is not a good thing and it can be caused by several things.

Causes of Dog Drooling in Car 

Motion Sickness 

One of the most common reasons for dog drooling in car is motion sickness. Just like humans, dogs can experience nausea and discomfort when traveling in a moving vehicle. The inner ear balance mechanism gets disturbed, leading to that uneasy feeling and drooling as a result. Younger dogs are more prone to motion sickness as their inner ear structures are still developing.

Anxiety and Stress 

Another possible cause for dog drooling in car is anxiety and stress. Some dogs may associate car rides with unpleasant experiences, such as going to the vet, leading to increased stress levels. Other dogs may simply be anxious about the unfamiliar environment or the sensation of being in a moving vehicle. This anxiety can trigger excessive drooling.

Overheating 

Dogs can also drool excessively in the car due to overheating. This is particularly concerning during hot weather, as the temperature inside the car can rise quickly. If your dog is panting heavily and drooling, it could be a sign that they’re too hot and need to cool down.

Salivation as a Natural Response

Some dogs naturally drool more than others, especially breeds with loose jowls, such as Mastiffs, Bloodhounds, and Saint Bernards. In these cases, the drooling may not necessarily indicate any discomfort or stress; it’s simply a natural response to the stimulation of the car ride. Your dog’s excitement, anticipation, or the smell of treats or food in the car could also trigger increased salivation.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can cause excessive drooling in dogs. For example, dental issues, such as gum disease or an abscessed tooth, can cause pain and result in increased salivation. 

Other health problems, such as gastrointestinal distress, respiratory infections, or neurological disorders, may also cause your dog to drool more than usual. If your dog is suddenly drooling excessively in the car and you suspect a medical issue, consult your veterinarian for an evaluation.

Foreign Objects 

If your dog has a foreign object lodged in their mouth or throat, it can cause discomfort and lead to excessive drooling. This could be a piece of food, a bone, a stick, or even a small toy. In these cases, the drooling will likely be accompanied by other signs of distress, such as coughing, gagging, or pawing at the mouth. If you suspect a foreign object is causing your dog’s drooling, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Things You Can Do To Help Your Dog

There are a lot of things you can do to help your dog and prevent this excessive drooling while in the car. In return, you will get a dog that loves to drive in a car and he will be happy and wait for you to arrive at the destination. Try all of these things and find which ones work the best.

Positive association with car travel

The first thing you can do is also the most effective. You will have to change how your dog is looking at car driving. For example, you can take him to a park close by in a car. Play with him and then go back home. The idea is that a dog will associate driving in a car with something nice and pleasant. Do this as many times as you have to. It would be even better if you have a friend who will sit back with your dog and play while you are going to a park. 

Stop as many times as you can

When you are sick in a car the first thing you want to do is to stop and go out. The thing is the same with dogs. You should make as many stops as you can and you should try to make most of them near water or beautiful scenery. A dog can go out, play a bit and then get back in the car. This will help him with motion sickness. 

Don’t feed your dog before you go on a  ride

Some dogs will need to have an empty stomach before you two go on a trip. Others will need to drink water before you start. Third must eat before you go. The best thing to do here is to start slow. Don’t feed your dog before you go. If he is feeling worse give him water. If he is still ill, you can feed him before you go on a drive. In general, find an option that works best for your pet. 

Get help from a friend 

It is extremely helpful if you have a friend who can be inside the car the entire time and who can play with your pet while you drive. This will make the dog happy and he will not think about sickness. It is an even better idea if you can be in the back with your dog while a friend is driving. 

Open the windows but turn off the AC

This is absolutely mandatory unless it is freezing low outside. Turn off the AC and open the window on the size where your dog is. This will allow him to get fresh air and he will feel better. It also allows him to feel the win on his face and do what all dogs love, to push his head through the window. Yes, it is a simple thing you can do and one of the most effective ones here. 

Choose where you drive 

If possible, always choose where you are going to drive. Your route should be next to some nice place with beautiful scenery. Water can help as well. So, why is this so important? Well, your pet will look through the window and enjoy it. Yes, dogs love to see beautiful places and areas as well. If possible, make a stop and play with your dog outside for a few minutes. It will have a huge, positive effect and it will make your pet a happy dog. 

Get an SUV

Yes, the right car can help. Imagine if you have a Great Dane and a small hatchback car. Your dog will not feel comfortable inside the car no matter what you do. That’s why the right car, especially a bigger one will help. Most dog owners are choosing SUVs due to a reason. A family minivan can be the right choice as well. In a nutshell, the goal is that your pet has tons of room inside. 

The Final Word

A dog drooling in a car is something that will probably happen to some of you. If or when that happens, try all of the things we have mentioned above and find the ones that work best for you. With a bit of effort, you can help your pet resolve the problem. He will enjoy traveling with you and he will have a great time. 

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