Do Bernedoodles Drool?
Have you ever wondered whether Bernedoodles, the delightful crossbreed, tend to drool? It’s a question that pops up when potential dog owners are considering their options. People have varying preferences when it comes to drooling – some don’t mind a bit of slobber, while others prefer their furry companions to be on the drier side.
Drooling is closely tied to a dog’s facial structure and its lineage. Dogs with ample jowls, loose lips, or prominent teeth are more likely to let drool escape. Think of the iconic Saint Bernards with their dramatic head shakes, flinging drool like confetti!
The fascinating thing about Bernedoodles is that they inherit their drooling tendencies from their parent breeds. The Bernese Mountain Dog, with its loose facial skin, is prone to drooling. On the flip side, Poodles are renowned for being relatively dry-mouthed. Bernedoodles often lean towards their Poodle ancestry, boasting smaller snouts that don’t collect excessive drool.
So do Bernedoodles drool? while Bernedoodles might not typically fit the profile of heavy droolers, there are instances where they do unleash the drips. Let’s delve into these scenarios:
1. Health Factors: The Role of Saliva and Health Management
Even dogs that aren’t known for drooling can surprise us with a bit of slobber, especially after a meal. This actually serves a purpose – the extra saliva assists in the digestion process. It aids in moving food through the digestive tract and breaking it down effectively. Additionally, that sudden surge of saliva could stem from sheer excitement over a much-loved meal or treat.
To manage your Bernedoodle’s drooling tendencies stemming from health factors:
– Balanced Diet: Ensure your dog is on a balanced, nutritious diet that promotes good digestion. Regular, well-portioned meals along with appropriate treats will help regulate saliva production and prevent excessive drooling.
2. Emotional Responses: Anxious Slobbers and Emotional Support
Surprisingly, drooling can also be a window into a dog’s emotional state. When dogs feel stressed or anxious, they might start panting more and producing more saliva. Let’s take a look at our pal Cooper. Although he’s an Australian Mountain Doodle, he shares many traits with the Bernedoodle breed. So we’ll use him as a drooling example. When he is in a situation that stresses him out, his panting increases, and he starts to drool a lot more than usual. Something that can trigger this stress is, for example, a trip to the vet. Our poor bud; the vet’s office is definitely not his favorite place.
To provide emotional support and minimize stress-related drooling:
– Comforting Environment: Create a safe and soothing environment for your Bernedoodle. Provide a cozy bed, calming music, or a familiar blanket. Your presence and gentle reassurance can greatly alleviate stress-induced drooling.
3. Discomfort and Pain: Signals of Unease and Vet Check
Drooling can be a silent indicator of various underlying issues in dogs. An upset stomach, dental problems, or general illness might cause dogs to drool excessively. If your usually drier-mouthed dog starts leaving puddles, it’s a red flag. Just like people produce more saliva when feeling under the weather, dogs can’t hold back the flow when they’re unwell. In these cases, it’s vital to consult a veterinarian to ensure proper care.
Potential health issues that could cause excessive drooling include:
– Dental Infections: Regular dental care is crucial to prevent infections that lead to increased drooling. – Mouth Sores: Painful sores in the mouth can trigger excessive drooling. – Gastrointestinal Problems: Upset stomach or digestive issues can result in more saliva production. – Toxic Ingestions: Ingesting harmful substances can cause discomfort and excess drooling.
Regular vet checks are essential, even if drooling isn’t excessive. If your Bernedoodle experiences sudden changes in drooling patterns, a vet can identify and address any underlying health concerns. A thorough examination and appropriate treatments can alleviate discomfort and ensure your furry friend’s well-being.
Additional Drool Mitigations:
Beyond health, emotions, and veterinary care, there are additional steps you can take to manage drooling:
– Hygiene: Regular Mouth Maintenance
– Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your Bernedoodle’s mouth for any signs of dental issues or irritation. Addressing these concerns promptly can reduce excessive drooling.
– Dental Care Routine: Establish a dental care routine that includes brushing your dog’s teeth regularly and providing appropriate dental treats or toys.
– Elevated Feeding: Preventing Mealtime Mess
– Elevated Bowls: Consider using elevated feeding bowls. This can help reduce the angle at which your Bernedoodle eats, minimizing the potential for drooling during meals.
– Training: Calm and Controlled Behavior
– Training Commands: Teach your Bernedoodle basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “quiet.” These commands can help your dog remain calm and composed, reducing anxiety-related drooling.
– Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they exhibit calm behavior. This positive reinforcement encourages them to stay relaxed in various situations.
– Distractions: Engaging Activities
– Engaging Toys: Provide your Bernedoodle with interactive toys that keep their mind engaged and distract them from stressful situations.
– Mental Stimulation: Engaging your dog’s mind through training, puzzle toys, or hide-and-seek games can help reduce stress-related drooling.
In Conclusion
So, do Bernedoodles drool? While they aren’t typically the champions of drool, understanding the factors that contribute to their slobbering tendencies empowers you as a responsible dog owner. By proactively managing health factors through a balanced diet, addressing emotional responses with comforting techniques, and promptly addressing discomfort and pain with veterinary care, you’re setting the stage for a happier and healthier Bernedoodle.
Taking extra steps, such as maintaining proper hygiene through regular mouth inspections and dental care, implementing elevated feeding to minimize mealtime mess, utilizing training to foster calm behavior, and offering engaging distractions, further enhance your ability to manage drooling. These approaches collectively contribute to a harmonious coexistence between you and your Bernedoodle, fostering a bond built on care, understanding, and shared experiences.
In the end, drooling becomes just one small part of the delightful journey you embark on with your Bernedoodle. By adapting to their needs, you ensure that both you and your furry friend can enjoy life’s moments – whether they’re filled with excitement, relaxation, or simply the joy of being together – slobber and all.
