do labradoodles drool

Do Labradoodles Drool More Than Other Breeds?

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Do Labradoodles drool? If you have a pet allergy, this is (perhaps surprisingly) a very important question to ask before you commit to a dog.

Labradoodles aren’t known to drool a lot, similar to their parent breeds.

But, like all dog breeds, Labradoodles will produce more drool at certain times in the day. Such as just after drinking, or when you’re about to give them a tasty treat.

Let’s take a closer look at Labradoodle drool, and why it could matter to you.

Why Does Labradoodle Drool Matter?

Labradoodles have a reputation as a hypoallergenic dog breed. But, sadly, there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog.

All dogs can potentially trigger allergies depending on how sensitive you happen to be.

Pet allergies are quite common. In fact, current estimates indicate that up to 30 percent of people may suffer from pet allergies!

So what does drooling have to do with any of this?

Dog Drooling Can Trigger Allergies

Pet allergies are not caused by shed hair. They are triggered by protein allergens that can be found on that shed hair.

These proteins are present in a dog’s skin and dander (flakes of skin), urine, and saliva.

So, the more your dog sheds or drools, the more likely you are to come into contact with the protein allergens that can trigger allergic symptoms.

Do Labradoodles Drool?

Some dog breeds drool a LOT.

The St. Bernard from the hit movie Beethoven is probably springing to your mind.

Luckily, neither the Labrador Retriever nor the Standard Poodle is known to drool a lot.

Since these two dog breeds make up the American Labradoodle, you are unlikely to have a slobbery pup if you choose a Doodle.

do labradoodles drool

When Do Labradoodle Drool the Most?

If you stayed awake in high school biology, you may remember a researcher named Ivan Pavlov and his famous drooling dogs.

Pavlov never intended to study drooling directly. But, he noticed his dogs reliably produced drool every time they saw the white-coated laboratory staff who brought them dinner.

Just like you probably drool at the thought of your favorite food, your Labradoodle will drool more at certain times or the day.

So, even though the Labradoodle is not a “drooling breed”, you will still encounter drool. Especially after or during certain points of the day. For example:

  • Before, after, and during mealtimes
  • Just after drinking water
  • During tooth brushing sessions
  • When you have a tasty treat for them
  • When you are eating something that smells or looks really yummy

Labradoodle Drool Can be a Sign of Health Problems

Sometimes, your Labradoodle may drool more than normal because something is wrong with their health.

Drooling can be an important warning sign that your dog is not feeling well.

Let’s cover the main medical reasons that your dog may suddenly be drooling more.

Reaction to Medication or Toxins

Just like your Labradoodle may drool more when you take a juicy steak off the grill, drool may also increase when your dog tastes something yucky.

Sometimes, that yucky taste may be due to a required medication.

At other times, it could be because your dog tried to eat a toxic plant of substance.

Motion Sickness

Many dogs get motion sick, just like their owners!

But, whilst you might feel nauseated and want to lay down, your dog is more likely to start drooling.

Tooth and Gum Trouble or Tooth Brushing

Dogs are often prone to gum and tooth issues. They can even make your dog smell more than usual!

This is why it’s so important to take the time to brush your dog’s teeth.

But, be aware, your dog may drool more because of the taste of toothpaste.

On top of this, dogs with a tooth or gum infection will drool, as the salivary glands produce more saliva to try and fight off the infection.

Stomach Upset

Tummy trouble is yet another trigger for increased saliva production.

One of the most common stomach issues dogs face is gastric reflux.

But, other stomach issues that can induce excess drool include:

  • Pancreatitis
  • Hiatal hernias
  • Esophageal damage or swelling
  • Appetite loss

Anxiety, Stress, or Fear

A dog may yawn when they feel stressed. But, you may also see your Labradoodle drooling when they feel stressed.

Drooling and licking are two common warning signs that your Doodle is feeling stressed, anxious, or afraid.

Serious Internal Issues

No dog owner likes to hear this. But, there are times when hyper-salivation (the technical term for excessive drool) may point to a more serious internal health issue.

Examples can include:

  • Tooth fractures
  • Internal obstructions
  • Liver or kidney failure
  • Heat stroke
  • Nerve damage
  • Even cancer.

Sometimes, drooling can be your Labradoodle’s way of sending an SOS call for veterinary help. So, pay attention if your dog suddenly starts drooling, especially if it is paired with other unusual symptoms.

Will I Be Allergic to a Labradoodle?

Dog drool is one of the major triggers for pet allergy symptoms. But, it is not the only trigger.

Your Labradoodle’s coat can also impact how well you can tolerate their company.

Labradoodles today tend to have one of three coat types:

The wool coat type has tight curls that will catch shedding hair. You should seek a Labradoodle with a wool coat type if you or a family member suffers from pet allergies.

But, it’s also a good idea to spend time with a dog before committing.

Reputable breeders may be happy to provide you with coat and saliva samples. This way, you can test out your tolerance before making a lifetime commitment to one of their Labradoodle puppies.

How to Control Labradoodle Drool

Dogs drool for the same basic reasons people drool. It helps them to digest their food, keep their teeth and gums healthy, and lubricate their mouth tissues.

So, it’s important that Labradoodles can drool. But that doesn’t mean you have to let them drool all over you!

Luckily, we know Labradoodles aren’t a notorious “drooling breed”.

They typically have fairly dry mouths unless it’s time to eat, or unless there’s an underlying health issue.

So, if you notice that your Labradoodle is drooling a lot, the first thing you should do is schedule a veterinary visit.

Once your vet has reassured you that nothing is wrong, try these tips to control Labradoodle drooling:

  • Tie a bandana around your dog’s neck to absorb drool
  • Place a towel under your dog’s water and food bowls
  • Dry off your dog’s mouth after a run or play session

Do Labradoodles Drool? A Summary

Like all dogs, Labradoodles drool. But, excessive drool won’t be a problem for most owners.

You should keep an eye on when and how much your Labradoodle drools. This way, you can spot minor issues before they become major health concerns.

More Practical Advice for Doodle Owners

References and Resources

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