Drooling is a common trait among many dog breeds, especially those with loose, pendulous lips and large jowls. While drooling might be off-putting for some potential dog owners, it’s a natural aspect of a dog’s anatomy and can even be endearing once you get to know the personality behind the slobber. Dogs that drool heavily often do so because their facial structure makes it difficult to retain saliva within the mouth. This characteristic is particularly prevalent in larger breeds, many of which were historically bred for hunting or guarding. For families considering a new pet, understanding which breeds are prone to heavy drooling is important for making an informed decision that aligns with their tolerance for this messy trait. Here, we explore seven dog breeds known for their propensity to drool, delving into the reasons behind their slobbery dispositions and what makes each of these breeds unique and lovable despite the drool.
1. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are perhaps one of the most famous drooling breeds, often depicted with a barrel around their necks and slobber dripping from their lips. These gentle giants were originally bred for rescue in the Swiss Alps and are known for their immense size and kind, patient nature. Their drooling is due to their very loose lips and jowls, which fail to contain the saliva, especially when they shake their heads or after drinking water. While their drooling can be excessive, Saint Bernards are incredibly affectionate and make excellent family pets, particularly suited for homes where their size and slobber won’t be an issue.
2. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are well-loved for their distinctive, wrinkled faces and stocky builds. Part of the charm of these dogs is their droopy mouths, which unfortunately also makes them prone to drooling. Bulldogs drool more than the average dog because of their short snouts and loose skin around the mouth, which doesn’t quite catch all the saliva. Despite the drool, Bulldogs are extremely loyal and loving, making superb companions. They are particularly good with children and make excellent indoor pets due to their relatively low energy levels.
3. Newfoundland
Newfoundland dogs are massive, powerful dogs known for their swimming ability and their gentle, protective nature. Their large size and loose lips contribute to a good amount of drool, especially during and after meals, or when they’re excited. Newfoundlands were originally bred as working dogs for fishermen in Newfoundland, Canada. They are excellent swimmers and have been known to save lives in emergencies. Despite their propensity to drool, their calm and friendly demeanor makes them wonderful family pets, especially for those with ample space.
4. Mastiff
Mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds in the world, known for their formidable size and gentle temperament. They have very loose, floppy lips and a massive head, both of which contribute to their excessive drooling. Mastiffs are known to drool in anticipation of food, after drinking water, or when they are overheated. These dogs were historically used as guard dogs but are gentle giants at heart, known for their loyalty and protective instincts towards their families.
5. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are famous for their incredible sense of smell and tracking ability. They are invaluable in search and rescue operations and police work. Along with their impressive nasal capabilities, Bloodhounds have very loose, hanging skin around their neck and jowls, which leads to significant drooling. This drool can often be seen dripping or flinging when they shake their heads. Despite this, Bloodhounds are exceptionally good-natured and docile, making them excellent companions, especially for active individuals or families.
6. Boxer
Boxers are playful and energetic dogs with a distinct pushed-in face. They are known to drool more than many other breeds due to their loose lips. Boxers might not drool as excessively as some of the larger breeds mentioned, but they still produce enough slobber to consider it a notable trait. Originally bred in Germany as guard dogs, Boxers are very protective and form strong bonds with their families. They are also incredibly energetic and require plenty of exercise, making them ideal pets for active owners.
7. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds, with their long ears and droopy eyes, are also known for their drooling. The structure of their lips and mouth means that saliva can easily escape, especially when they are tracking a scent or after eating and drinking. Basset Hounds were originally bred for hunting small game. Their incredible sense of smell is second only to the Bloodhound. They are very laid-back and affectionate, making great family pets for those who don’t mind a bit of drool.
In conclusion, while these breeds are known for their tendency to drool, they are also incredibly loving and rewarding companions. Each breed brings its own unique set of qualities that can make it the perfect fit for the right family or individual. Potential dog owners should consider their lifestyle and preferences when choosing a breed, ensuring they can provide a loving home that accommodates not just the needs but also the quirks of their new pet, drool, and all.
