Is your dog foaming at the mouth? Here, we'll discuss how you can tell if it's a serious problem or it's fairly normal. If you're concerned your dog is having an emergency, come to your nearest VEG for immediate vet attention. Unsure if you should come in? Give us a call and we'll talk it over.

Foaming at the mouth is often cited as one of the most notable symptoms of rabies in dogs. However, rabies is not the only potential cause of this symptom, and it’s important to learn about the different causes of foaming at the mouth before panicking.

WHAT DOES A DOG FOAMING AT THE MOUTH LOOK LIKE?

Foaming at the mouth is the common term given to excessive, frothy drooling. Foamy drool often takes on a thick, whitish appearance and is different from more typical drool which is thin and clear. 

Some dogs may foam at the mouth as a result of overactivity. If your dog has just been playing and has been more active than usual, there is probably nothing wrong with them even if they are foaming at the mouth a bit.

However, if your dog has not recently been active or if they are exhibiting any other strange or concerning symptoms, the foaming at the mouth could be a sign of a more serious issue.

VEG ER for Pets is open 24 hours a day to help your dog. If you spot foaming at the mouth, bring your dog in day or night.

WHAT CAUSES FOAMING AT THE MOUTH IN DOGS?

Foaming at the mouth can be caused by many different factors and have different levels of severity. If you’re ever questioning the reason why this is happening to your dog, you should contact an emergency vet right away. Even if the underlying cause doesn’t turn out to be something severe, it’s important to always be on the safe and proactive side when it comes to your pet’s health.

7 common causes for a dog foaming at the mouth:

1. Ingestion of toxins

If your dog has ingested something toxic, she may foam at the mouth.

2. Ingestion of something bitter

Ingestion of something bitter or foul tasting, can sometimes cause dogs to foam at the mouth. This often develops and resolves rather quickly.

3. Dental disease

Many dental diseases cause foaming at the mouth. The symptom gradually worsens over time.

4. Heat stroke in dogs

Heat stroke can cause foaming at the mouth in dogs, even in early stages of the condition.

5. Seizure

Seizures may sometimes cause dogs to foam at the mouth.

6. Nausea

Nausea may cause dogs to drool excessively or foam at the mouth. This may pass, but it's best to treat this as an emergency as nausea can be due to an underlying condition.

7. Rabies

Rabies can cause foaming at the mouth however it is pretty rare to see Rabies as most of our dogs are vaccinated against it. Rabies may also present with multiple other symptoms, including:

• Confusion

• Hallucinations

• Severe mood changes

• Weakness

• Seizures

• Difficulty breathing

• Sensitivity to lights, sounds and touch

  
  

How do you know if your dog's mouth foam is an emergency? Call and speak with a veterinarian or come to VEG see a vet right away who can help your dog.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP MY DOG FROM FOAMING AT THE MOUTH?

Call VEG right away if you are concerned that your dog’s foaming at the mouth may be due to something serious. Identifying the reason for this behavior will be key in making sure the proper care is given.

Our veterinarians can perform a physical examination and certain tests to try and diagnose the cause for your dog’s signs, then offer solutions and options to help them recover whenever possible.

Treatment options for foaming at the mouth will vary depending on the cause of the condition:

Ingestion of something toxic or dog has heat stroke

If your dog has ingested a toxin or is suffering from heatstroke, they need to go to the emergency vet immediately. The sooner you take your pet to the emergency vet, the more likely they will be able to make a full recovery from this condition.

Ingestion of something foul tasting

This is usually self-limiting and will resolve on its own as the taste fades. If your dog's signs don’t resolve quickly or worsen, please seek emergency veterinary care.

If Dog Has Dental Disease

If you suspect that your dog’s dental disease is the cause of their signs, go to your dog's primary care vet as soon as possible. Your veterinarian may recommend dental cleaning and/or even removal of the damaged teeth, depending on the severity of your dog’s condition.

Dog is Nauseous or Having Seizures

If your dog is feeling nauseated or is having seizures, consider the situation.

Is the nausea coming from a known issue, like a new medication or a change in their food? If so, you may be able to start by monitoring at home and see if it resolves. If it continues or worsens, they should be seen by a veterinarian.

Are the seizures new, or is this a known condition? If it is known, you can probably also wait—unless the seizures are long, frequent or associated with a change in behavior or other signs of illness.

When Rabies is a Concern

Although rabies is rarely a concern, if you suspect that your dog may have rabies, please seek emergency veterinary care at VEG immediately.

Call ahead and let them know to expect you as they may need to make special arrangements for your arrival and will also help provide guidance over the phone. Because rabies can be spread from pets to people, it is very important to follow provided instructions and care. 

If you don’t feel you can safely transport your pet, please reach out to your local Animal Control Officer for assistance.

VEG ANIMAL HOSPITAL IS OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY

At VEG, we care about your dog’s health and are always prepared to handle any emergency situation that may occur. We have locations all over the country, with most being open 24/7, including holidays. If your dog is foaming at the mouth, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We have emergency veterinarians who are ready to talk with you and guide you on the next best steps to make sure your pet gets the care she needs.