Newfoundlands, known for their gentle giant reputation, are a beloved breed around the world. Their large size, beautiful coats, and friendly demeanor make them a popular choice for families and dog enthusiasts alike. However, one characteristic that often comes with owning a Newfoundland is their tendency to drool. This slobbery trait can be a source of frustration for some owners, leading to the question: can you stop a Newfoundland from drooling? In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind a Newfoundland’s drooling, explore methods to manage and reduce drooling, and discuss the importance of understanding and embracing this natural behavior.
Understanding Why Newfoundlands Drool
Before we dive into ways to manage drooling, it’s essential to understand why Newfoundlands exhibit this behavior. Drooling, or hypersalivation, is a common trait in many large and giant breeds, including Newfoundlands. There are several reasons why Newfoundlands drool:
Anatomy and Physiology
Newfoundlands have a unique anatomy that contributes to their drooling. Their large, loose lips and floppy jowls create a pocket that can trap saliva, making it more likely to drip out of their mouth. Additionally, their salivary glands produce a significant amount of saliva, which can lead to drooling.
Genetics and Breed Characteristics
Drooling is a breed characteristic of Newfoundlands, and it’s deeply rooted in their genetics. The breed was originally developed to assist fishermen and rescue people from the water, and their drooling may have been an adaptation to help them cool down and lubricate their mouth while working in cold, wet conditions.
Health and Medical Factors
In some cases, drooling can be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, or certain medications. It’s crucial to rule out any medical causes of excessive drooling before attempting to manage the behavior.
Methods to Manage and Reduce Drooling
While it’s unlikely to completely stop a Newfoundland from drooling, there are several methods to manage and reduce the behavior:
Diet and Nutrition
Feeding a high-quality, balanced diet can help reduce drooling in Newfoundlands. Avoid giving your dog table scraps or high-sodium foods, as these can exacerbate drooling. Instead, opt for a nutrient-rich dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs.
Oral Health and Hygiene
Regular dental care is essential for reducing drooling in Newfoundlands. Brush your dog’s teeth daily to remove plaque and tartar, and provide dental chews or toys to help keep their mouth clean. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help identify any underlying dental issues that may be contributing to drooling.
Environmental Factors
In some cases, environmental factors can contribute to drooling in Newfoundlands. For example, hot weather, humidity, or certain smells can trigger drooling. Keeping your dog cool, providing plenty of fresh water, and avoiding strong-smelling foods or substances can help reduce drooling.
Training and Behavior Modification
While training and behavior modification can’t completely eliminate drooling, they can help manage the behavior. Teaching your dog to swallow or lick their lips on command can help reduce drooling in certain situations. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when training your Newfoundland.
The Importance of Embracing and Understanding Drooling
It’s essential to remember that drooling is a natural behavior for Newfoundlands, and it’s not something to be ashamed of or embarrassed about. Rather than trying to completely stop your dog from drooling, focus on managing the behavior and embracing the unique characteristics of your breed.
Acceptance and Patience
Accepting and being patient with your dog’s drooling can go a long way in reducing stress and anxiety for both you and your dog. Remember that drooling is a natural part of owning a Newfoundland, and it’s not a reflection of your dog’s health or well-being.
Practical Tips for Living with a Drooling Newfoundland
If you’re considering bringing a Newfoundland into your family, it’s essential to be prepared for the drooling that comes with the breed. Here are a few practical tips for living with a drooling Newfoundland:
- Keep a stash of drool-rags or towels on hand to clean up spills and messes
- Invest in a good vacuum cleaner and mop to keep your home clean
- Consider using a drool-resistant fabric protector on your furniture and carpets
Conclusion
While it’s unlikely to completely stop a Newfoundland from drooling, there are several methods to manage and reduce the behavior. By understanding the reasons behind drooling, implementing diet and nutrition changes, maintaining good oral health and hygiene, and being mindful of environmental factors, you can help minimize drooling in your Newfoundland. Most importantly, remember to accept and embrace the unique characteristics of your dog, drooling and all. With patience, love, and understanding, you and your Newfoundland can live happily together, slobber and all.
What causes a Newfoundland to drool excessively?
Newfoundlands are known for their slobbery nature, and excessive drooling can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the main reasons is their unique anatomy, which includes loose, droopy lips and a large, hanging tongue. This can lead to saliva spilling out of their mouth, especially after eating or drinking. Additionally, Newfoundlands are prone to certain health issues, such as gum disease and tooth decay, which can cause inflammation and irritation in the mouth, leading to increased drooling.
In some cases, excessive drooling in Newfoundlands can also be a sign of a more serious underlying issue, such as a digestive problem or a neurological disorder. If you notice that your Newfoundland is drooling more than usual, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health problems. Your veterinarian can perform a physical examination, take a complete medical history, and run diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the excessive drooling. By identifying the root cause, you can work with your veterinarian to develop a plan to manage your Newfoundland’s drooling and prevent any related health issues.
How can I reduce my Newfoundland’s drooling?
Reducing a Newfoundland’s drooling requires a combination of good oral hygiene, proper care, and management. One of the most effective ways to reduce drooling is to establish a regular oral care routine, which includes brushing your Newfoundland’s teeth daily and providing dental chews or toys to help remove plaque and tartar. You should also ensure that your Newfoundland has access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated, which can help to thin out their saliva and reduce drooling.
In addition to oral care, there are several other ways to manage your Newfoundland’s drooling. For example, you can use a drool rag or a bandana to wipe away excess saliva, and you can also use a waterproof blanket or cover to protect your furniture and carpets from stains. You can also try to reduce your Newfoundland’s stress and anxiety, which can contribute to excessive drooling, by providing a calm and comfortable environment, and engaging them in regular exercise and play. By following these tips, you can help to reduce your Newfoundland’s drooling and make them a more comfortable and happy companion.
Are there any health risks associated with a Newfoundland’s drooling?
Yes, there are several health risks associated with a Newfoundland’s drooling. Excessive drooling can lead to skin irritation and infection, particularly around the mouth and chin area, where the skin can become red, inflamed, and sore. Additionally, drooling can also lead to the development of acne-like lesions and skin fold dermatitis, which can be painful and uncomfortable for your Newfoundland. Furthermore, if your Newfoundland’s drooling is caused by an underlying health issue, such as a digestive problem or a neurological disorder, it’s essential to address the root cause to prevent more serious health complications.
If left untreated, excessive drooling can also lead to secondary health issues, such as respiratory problems, gastrointestinal problems, and even systemic infections. For example, if your Newfoundland’s drooling is caused by a dental issue, such as gum disease or tooth decay, it can lead to the development of bacteria in the bloodstream, which can cause infections in other parts of the body. Therefore, it’s crucial to work with your veterinarian to identify the underlying cause of your Newfoundland’s drooling and develop a plan to manage it, to prevent any related health risks and ensure your dog’s overall health and well-being.
Can I train my Newfoundland to stop drooling?
While it’s not possible to completely stop a Newfoundland from drooling, you can train them to drool less and to be more mindful of their slobbery nature. One way to do this is to teach your Newfoundland to swallow more frequently, which can help to reduce the amount of saliva that spills out of their mouth. You can also teach your Newfoundland to keep their mouth closed, particularly when they’re not eating or drinking, which can help to reduce drooling.
To train your Newfoundland to drool less, you’ll need to be patient, consistent, and positive. Start by teaching your Newfoundland basic obedience commands, such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it,” which can help to distract them from drooling. You can also use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior and discourage drooling. Additionally, you can try to distract your Newfoundland when they start to drool, by offering them a toy or a treat, which can help to redirect their attention and reduce drooling.
How can I protect my home and belongings from my Newfoundland’s drooling?
Protecting your home and belongings from your Newfoundland’s drooling requires some planning and preparation. One of the most effective ways to protect your home is to use waterproof blankets or covers on your furniture and carpets, which can help to prevent stains and make cleanup easier. You can also use drool rags or bandanas to wipe away excess saliva, and you can place mats or towels under your Newfoundland’s food and water bowls to catch any spills.
In addition to using protective covers and cleaning up spills, you can also take steps to drool-proof your home. For example, you can remove any valuable or sensitive items from your Newfoundland’s reach, and you can use baby gates or pet gates to restrict access to certain areas of your home. You can also use a crate or a pen to contain your Newfoundland when you’re not home to supervise, which can help to prevent accidents and protect your belongings. By taking these precautions, you can help to protect your home and belongings from your Newfoundland’s drooling and make cleanup easier.
Are there any products available to help manage my Newfoundland’s drooling?
Yes, there are several products available to help manage your Newfoundland’s drooling. One of the most popular products is a drool rag or bandana, which can be used to wipe away excess saliva and protect your clothing and furniture. You can also use waterproof blankets or covers, which can help to prevent stains and make cleanup easier. Additionally, there are several oral care products available, such as dental chews and toys, which can help to reduce tartar and plaque and prevent dental issues that can contribute to drooling.
There are also several products available that can help to reduce your Newfoundland’s drooling, such as anti-drooling sprays and wipes, which can help to reduce saliva production and prevent drooling. You can also use a product called a “drool bib,” which is a wearable bib that can help to catch excess saliva and prevent stains. When choosing a product to help manage your Newfoundland’s drooling, it’s essential to read reviews and do your research to find a product that is safe, effective, and easy to use. By using the right products, you can help to manage your Newfoundland’s drooling and make them a more comfortable and happy companion.