If you’re a proud owner of a Saint Bernard, you’re well aware of their gentle nature and lovable personality. However, one aspect of these affectionate giants that may not be as endearing is their propensity to drool. While it’s a natural behavior for this breed, it can certainly pose challenges when it comes to keeping your home clean and slobber-free. Luckily, there are several effective ways to prevent Saint Bernards from drooling indoors, allowing you to fully enjoy the company of your furry friend without constantly reaching for a mop.
Understanding the Causes of Excessive Drooling
Excessive drooling in dogs, including Saint Bernards, can be attributed to various factors. By understanding these causes, you can better address the issue and find appropriate solutions.
Genetics and Breed Characteristics
One of the primary reasons Saint Bernards drool excessively is due to their genetics and breed characteristics. These lovable giants have a trait known as “jowling,” which is the loose skin around their mouths. This loose skin, along with the shape and size of their lips, contributes to their drooling tendency. It’s important to note that genetics play a significant role in this aspect, making it difficult to completely eliminate drooling in Saint Bernards.
Health Issues
Another factor that can lead to excessive drooling is underlying health issues. Certain medical conditions can cause increased salivation in dogs. For example, oral infections, dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, and even allergies can all contribute to excess drooling. If you suspect that your Saint Bernard’s drooling is due to a health issue, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and pursue appropriate treatment.
Temperature and Environment
Temperature and environmental conditions can also impact the amount of drooling in Saint Bernards. These gentle giants are more prone to drooling in warmer weather or when they are in a hot and humid environment. Drooling serves as a natural mechanism for them to cool down. Additionally, stress or excitement caused by their surroundings or interactions with other people or animals can trigger excessive drooling.
Excitement and Anxiety
Excitement and anxiety are common triggers for excessive drooling in dogs, including Saint Bernards. Whether it’s the anticipation of a walk, meeting new people, or even loud noises, these situations can make your furry friend produce more saliva than usual. It’s important to observe your Saint Bernard’s behavior and identify any patterns between certain situations and their drooling episodes.
Maintaining Proper Oral Hygiene
To address excessive drooling in Saint Bernards, it’s essential to establish a regular oral hygiene routine. By keeping their mouth clean and healthy, you can keep drooling to a minimum.
Regular Teeth Brushing
Brushing your Saint Bernard’s teeth regularly is one of the most effective ways to maintain proper oral hygiene. Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to gently clean their teeth and gums. Aim for at least two to three times a week, if not more, depending on their individual needs.
Dental Check-ups
Just like humans, dogs require regular dental check-ups. Schedule routine visits with your veterinarian to ensure that your Saint Bernard’s teeth and gums are healthy. They can perform professional cleanings, identify any dental issues that contribute to drooling, and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.
Diet and Dental Chews
Diet plays a crucial role in oral health. Provide your Saint Bernard with a balanced diet that promotes dental health. Look for kibble or treats specifically formulated to reduce dental plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, consider offering dental chews or toys that can help remove debris and promote healthy gums.
Managing Food and Water Intake
Proper management of food and water intake can help reduce excessive drooling. Implement these strategies to keep drooling in check.
Feeding Schedule
Establish a consistent feeding schedule for your Saint Bernard. Regular meal times can help regulate their saliva production. Avoid leaving food out all day, as this can contribute to gulping and drooling. Instead, serve meals at specific times and remove any leftover food after a designated period.
Elevated Food Bowls
Elevating your Saint Bernard’s food bowls can promote better posture and reduce drooling. Raised bowls can prevent them from tilting their head too far down, which can trigger excess salivation. Choose bowls of an appropriate height that allow your dog to eat comfortably without straining their neck.
Slow Feeding Bowls
If your Saint Bernard tends to eat quickly, invest in a slow feeding bowl. These bowls have obstacles or patterns that prevent dogs from devouring their meals too rapidly. By slowing down their eating pace, you can reduce drooling caused by fast eating.
Water Management
While it’s essential to ensure your dog stays hydrated, managing their water intake can also help minimize drooling. Encourage your Saint Bernard to drink in moderation. Consider using a water dispenser with a large base and a smaller surface area to prevent them from drinking excessively at once.
Managing Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can contribute to excessive drooling in Saint Bernards. Implement these techniques to help manage their emotional well-being.
Identifying Triggers
Observe your Saint Bernard’s behavior and identify specific triggers that cause stress or anxiety. Common triggers can include loud noises, thunderstorms, separation anxiety, or even certain people or animals. By pinpointing these triggers, you can take proactive measures to minimize their exposure and subsequent drooling.
Creating a Safe Haven
Provide your Saint Bernard with a designated safe haven. This can be a crate, a specific room, or a cozy corner where they can retreat when they feel anxious or overwhelmed. Fill their safe space with comforting items, such as their favorite toys or blankets, to create a calming environment.
Behavioral Training
Engage in behavioral training exercises to help your Saint Bernard better cope with stressful situations. Reward-based training techniques can teach them to associate positive experiences with potentially triggering events. Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to develop a tailored training plan for your furry friend.
Professional Assistance
In severe cases of stress or anxiety, seeking professional assistance may be necessary. Your veterinarian can provide guidance and, if needed, prescribe behavior-modifying medications to help alleviate your Saint Bernard’s anxiety. Medications should always be used under professional supervision.
Creating a Safe and Clean Environment
Maintaining a safe and clean environment not only promotes your Saint Bernard’s well-being but also helps manage excessive drooling.
Protective Clothing and Furniture Covers
If your Saint Bernard tends to drool while indoors, consider using protective clothing or specialized furniture covers. These can help prevent drool from staining your clothes or furniture, making cleanup easier and more convenient.
Designated Drooling Areas
Designate specific areas where your Saint Bernard is allowed to drool freely. This can be a corner of a room with a drool-resistant mat or a towel placed underneath them. By allocating a designated space, you can contain the drool and minimize its impact on your living areas.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Develop a daily cleaning routine to maintain a clean environment. Regularly wipe down your Saint Bernard’s face and mouth to remove excess drool. Vacuum or sweep your floors to eliminate any drool residue. Additionally, wash their bedding and clean their designated drooling areas regularly to prevent any buildup or odors.
Air Circulation and Ventilation
Improving air circulation and ventilation in your home can assist in reducing excessive drooling. Use fans or open windows to create a more comfortable indoor environment, particularly during warmer weather. Good airflow can help keep your Saint Bernard cool and regulate their saliva production.
Using Behavior Modification Techniques
Behavior modification techniques can be effective in managing excessive drooling in Saint Bernards. Implement these strategies to redirect their behavior.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in behavior modification. Reward desired behaviors, such as calmness or not drooling excessively, with treats, praise, or affection. This helps create positive associations and encourages your Saint Bernard to exhibit the desired behavior more frequently.
Redirecting Behavior
When you notice your Saint Bernard starting to drool excessively, redirect their attention to a more appropriate behavior. Offer them a chew toy, engage in interactive play, or initiate training exercises. By diverting their focus, you can distract them from drooling and provide mental stimulation.
Distraction Techniques
Using distraction techniques can help redirect your Saint Bernard’s focus away from drooling. For example, playing calming music or providing a puzzle toy can engage their mind and promote relaxation. Experiment with various distractions to identify what works best for your furry friend.
Providing Mental and Physical Stimulation
Mental and physical stimulation is crucial for overall well-being and can help manage excessive drooling in Saint Bernards.
Regular Exercise
Engage your Saint Bernard in regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, interactive play sessions, or even canine sports can help fulfill their energy needs and reduce stress, ultimately decreasing drooling. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate level and type of exercise for your furry friend.
Puzzle Toys and Treat Dispensers
Puzzle toys and treat dispensers are excellent tools to provide mental stimulation and alleviate boredom. These toys challenge your Saint Bernard’s problem-solving skills and keep them entertained for extended periods. By engaging their mind, you can help minimize drooling caused by anxiety or restlessness.
Engaging Activities
Incorporate engaging activities into your Saint Bernard’s daily routine. Teaching them new tricks, playing hide-and-seek, or even introducing scent-based games can provide mental stimulation and reduce stress levels. Be creative and tailor activities to your dog’s preferences, ensuring they enjoy the experience and remain engaged.
Utilizing Medications and Supplements
In some cases, medications and supplements may be necessary to manage excessive drooling in Saint Bernards. Consult with your veterinarian before considering these options.
Consulting a Veterinarian
When excessive drooling persists despite implementing various strategies, consult your veterinarian. They can assess your Saint Bernard’s overall health, determine if any underlying conditions contribute to the drooling, and provide appropriate recommendations.
Prescribed Medication
If your veterinarian believes that medication is necessary to manage drooling, they may prescribe specific drugs that can help regulate saliva production. These medications should only be used under professional guidance and monitoring to ensure your dog’s safety and wellbeing.
Supplements and Natural Remedies
Some supplements and natural remedies can aid in managing excessive drooling. For example, products containing herbs like chamomile or melatonin may have calming effects. However, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian before administering any supplements or natural remedies to ensure they are safe and suitable for your Saint Bernard.
Professional Grooming and Maintenance
Proper grooming and maintenance can contribute to reducing excessive drooling in Saint Bernards.
Grooming Appointments
Schedule regular grooming appointments for your Saint Bernard. Professional groomers can trim their facial hair, particularly around the mouth, to minimize drool retention and promote cleanliness. Grooming appointments also ensure that their coat is healthy and free from any irritants or mats that may contribute to drooling.
Trimming Facial Hair
In addition to professional grooming, regular at-home facial hair trimming can help manage drooling. Gently trim the hair around your Saint Bernard’s mouth to keep it clean and prevent excessive saliva from getting trapped in their fur.
Specialized Products
Consider using specialized products, such as drool bibs or bandanas, designed specifically for Saint Bernards. These accessories can help contain drool and protect your dog’s fur and skin. Additionally, using products like facial wipes specifically formulated for dogs can provide quick cleanups and maintain their hygiene.
Consulting with a Professional Dog Trainer
In certain situations, consulting with a professional dog trainer may be beneficial in addressing excessive drooling in Saint Bernards.
Appropriate Training Methods
A professional dog trainer can guide you in using appropriate training methods to manage excessive drooling. They will assess your Saint Bernard’s behavior, identify any underlying causes, and develop a training plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
Behavior Modification Strategies
Trainers can assist in implementing behavior modification strategies to address excessive drooling. They can help you create positive associations, teach your Saint Bernard relaxation techniques, or work on desensitization exercises, ultimately minimizing drooling triggered by stress or anxiety.
Obedience Training
Obedience training is crucial for all dogs, including those prone to excessive drooling. By teaching your Saint Bernard basic obedience commands, you can establish control and redirect their attention when drooling becomes excessive. A professional dog trainer can guide you in structuring effective obedience training sessions.
In conclusion, excessive drooling in Saint Bernards can be addressed through a combination of understanding the underlying causes, maintaining proper oral hygiene, managing food and water intake, managing stress and anxiety, creating a safe and clean environment, utilizing behavior modification techniques, providing mental and physical stimulation, utilizing medications and supplements under professional guidance, professional grooming and maintenance, and consulting with a professional dog trainer. By implementing these strategies, you can help reduce excessive drooling and improve your Saint Bernard’s overall well-being.