Great Danes are undeniably majestic, but there’s one notorious quirk that comes with their grandeur—drool. For those considering adding a Great Dane to the family, it’s essential to embrace the slobber that often accompanies their loving nature. While the thought of perpetual drool might deter some, understanding why and when these charming giants produce their famous slobber can help prospective owners prepare.
Many dog enthusiasts describe Great Danes as moderate to heavy droolers. Sure, they might not match the Saint Bernard or the Dogue de Bordeaux in drool volume, but there’s no denying the Great Dane’s contribution to the slobber spectrum. Their large, flappy lips create little drool reservoirs, which eventually spill over. It’s simply a part of their anatomy and while unavoidable, it’s something one can grow accustomed to.
The drool factor tends to increase as temperatures rise. It’s a part of nature’s cooling mechanism, causing the drool pockets to overflow more frequently, especially during hot spells. Moreover, sudden and excessive drooling might signify a medical issue. If the drool starts flowing irrespective of temperature changes, it is wise to reach out to a vet.
Like many of us, Great Danes might drool heavily when they’re hungry or anticipating a meal. Puppies, especially when teething between 3–5 months, can also experience increased drooling. However, as those permanent teeth come in, drooling can settle down.
While stopping the drool isn’t entirely possible, there are ways to manage it. Keeping your furry friend hydrated and indoors during scorching days can help. Regular dental checkups and daily teeth brushing are a must, as periodontal disease can exacerbate drooling. Identifying and dodging drool triggers, like mealtime, or offering puzzles and toys during meals to keep them occupied, can also help.
Although it might seem like playtime with toys increases drool, these toys may simply squeeze out saliva already stored in those pockets. Despite the drool, toys are essential, offering comfort, mental stimulation, and preventing bad behaviors like chewing on the furniture.
Cleaning up after a Great Dane’s drool isn’t daunting. A quick wipe with a moist towelette can do wonders, whether it’s the floor, the furniture, or even their jowls.
Great Danes are known to be among the top drooling dog breeds. Yet, their gentle personality and affectionate nature make them worth the extra cleanup. By understanding the reasons behind and ways to manage this drool, potential and current owners can enjoy the companionship of these delightful giants without the fear of excessive slobber. Frequent vet visits ensure no underlying health issues exacerbate the drooling, ensuring a clean and healthy home environment.
