I totally get it. Drool is gross. Even though I work with dogs on a daily basis I still need to mentally psych myself up to deal with it.
Loose-lipped and droopy-jowled dogs are the biggest offenders here. A hot day or getting excited will easily open the flood gates. Or my favorite; when they go for a drink of water and seconds later I witness a literal waterfall spill onto the floor.
The following breeds are the biggest puddle-producing offenders:
- Basset Hounds and Blood Hounds
- Mastiffs
- Bulldogs
- Newfoundlands (Newfies)
- Saint Bernards
- Labradors
So why do some breeds leave ropes of saliva while others are perfectly neat an tidy? It has to do with their lip structure.
Some dogs have loose upper lips (or “flews”) created by extra skin, which allows saliva to collect and eventually drip out the sides. Or when this dog shakes their head you will see drool become airborne in spectacular fashion.
Keep a rag or bib handy.
Typical dog drooling is actually a good thing. It allows for proper digestion, keeps bad bacteria at bay, and maintains oral health.
However, excess drool can be a sign of medical distress.
Medical Emergencies
While some breeds just drool more, sometimes it can be a warning sign. Especially with breeds that don’t typically produce excess saliva.
Some other causes of excess drool include:
- Overheating or Heat stroke
- Nausea or Motion Sickness
- Upset stomach
- Dental problems
- Stress or Injuries
These issues will often display other symptoms as well. Excess drooling may be the first sign that something is wrong and you should visit the vet.
Dogs That Don’t Drool
In short, some breeds have muzzles and lips that are structured to dribble less. While a hot day, stress, or even a medical condition could cause excess drooling, on a normal day these dogs are typically neat and tidy.
1. Bichon Frise
Cheerful, loving, and a little trouble maker, the Bichon Frise has plenty of personality to share with everyone around her.
The Bichon is described as affectionate, silly, and gentle. They prefer to be your full-time companion, so they do not like being left alone for long periods of time.
Because these little guys are so full of love and energy, they need to get out everyday for some exercise. Yet are especially sensitive to scolding.
They need gentle training and a positive environment to really flourish.
2. Border Collie
The border collie is a working and herding breed – they’re incredibly intelligent and always on the go. With that in mind, you never want a bored working dog or they’ll find destructive means to occupy their time.
Collies are incredibly attuned to their owners actions (and even emotions), making them the ideal partner at work and play.
It’s not wonder this dog excels at training, tracking, agility, obedience, and just about any other active sport.
3. Corgi
Don’t let their short and stubby structure fool you – the Welsh Corgi is ready to run and play at any given moment. That’s because this is actually a working breed, and without a means to burn their energy the Corgi can be a handful.
Drool may become more prevalent after a good 30 minute run, otherwise they tend to keep their face dry and spit-free.
Despite their constant need to run and bark, the Corgi is a wonderful companion and quite affectionate.
4. Chihuahua
Chihuahua’s get a bad reputation. Yes, they can be quite “mouthy” and bark at whatever catches their interest. However, they are incredibly affectionate and great with kids.
Despite their tough-guy attitude, they’re very content with just following you to the ends of the earth. Their small size makes them a perfect travel companion. In fact, I highly recommend you do, as this dog doesn’t fair well with being left alone.
Even with those little legs Chihuahuas have a surprising amount of energy to burn, and a 30 minute walk can help curb bad behavior (such as that excessive barking).
They’re also very sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, so having a little sweater handy or a cool place to rest will certainly keep them comfortable and safe.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are beyond affectionate and friendly, with a loving attitude that’s immediately contagious. They have moderate energy levels, and love to play and receive all your attention.
But keep in mind these dogs are gentle souls, and frighten easily. Scolding, yelling, or negativity will cause the Cavalier to run and hide. Children will need to be calm, and respect the gentle nature of this canine.
Their intelligence and eagerness to impress their owners makes them very trainable. But being very attached to their owners tends to create severe separation anxiety.
6. Dachshund
Dachshunds or “Wiener dogs” are silly, lazy, playful, and lovable. Making them wonderful for families or single owners.
But did you know they come in different hair types and sizes? Everyone recognizes the miniature, but there’s a much bigger standard size as well. You can also find them in smooth, long haired, and wire haired.
When it comes to drool – it’s pretty much non-existent. However their barking, digging, and difficulty with potty training may present it’s own problems.
7. Havanese
Havanese have just one thing on their mind, and that’s you. Velcro is their middle name, as they’ll be attached to you wherever you go. With that in mind it’s difficult to leave this dog alone for any extended period of time.
They tend to be shy or timid, so early socialization is a must. Early training is also essential to curb other bad habits such as barking or chewing.
8. Husky
Huskies are quite literally party animals with loads of personality. They’re always up for a good time and always ready to run (or pull you down the street).
Remember, huskies were meant to pull sleds through the arctic tundra, so walking nicely on a leash will be a training challenge. Their energy level is off the charts, so you need to accommodate their natural desire to work.
Surprisingly, they drool very little. But they make up for it in shedding. Keep a brush and vacuum cleaner handy, you’ll need it.
9. Papillon
Always on the lookout, the Papillon is alert and energetic. They’re always ready for a good time and seeking out their next play partner. While their energy is off the charts, it’s all in good fun.
Good news; you can harness that energy into training and agility. They love to work and show off, it’s in their very nature to put on a good show and impress people.
The Papillon is a very keen learner and an absolute joy to train.
10. Poodle
Poodles are not as dainty as you may think. They love to play, run, explore, and get a little dirty. Thankfully, all that playing and exploring doesn’t involve much drool.
Another positive trait is their big brains. You may have already heard, but Poodles absolutely excel at training, agility, and obedience. They love to learn, and they love to show it off.
Coming in at two distinct sizes: miniature, and standard, there are some differences in personality between the two.
Poodles are also considered one of the hypoallergenic, non shedding dog breeds
11. Greyhound / Italian Greyhound
Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds are very different in size but share similar personality traits, and most importantly: they don’t drool.
You would think that owning the fastest dog in the world would be pretty hectic. But there is a reason they’re referred to as the “world’s fasted couch potato”. They enjoy spending their days napping, lounging in the sun, and hanging out with their family. They are truly a low maintenance dog breed.
Furthermore, Greyhounds rarely bark or make noise, unless left alone for any extended period of time. And they’re incredibly bright, making training an absolute joy.
They can be a very timid breed, and may show signs of nervousness around strangers and new dogs. That’s why it’s recommended you socialize them at an early age to develop some confidence.
12. Whippet
Similar to Greyhounds, these dogs are a popular racing breed, and were once used for hunting rabbits. Because of their athleticism and intelligence, Whippet’s excel in agility and obedience courses.
But even with all that energy these dogs are surprisingly very relaxed and quite enjoy a good nap. They love spending time with your entire family, and can adapt to nearly any type of home. Also, they rarely bark, and the only time they tend to make noise is when they’re left alone.
Also, their short coat means minimal grooming and shedding.
While these dogs absolutely love (and need) a good walk everyday, be very careful letting them off leash. Any little creature they spot will cause them to give chase with everything they have, and they can run very fast and jump very high.
