Excessive Drooling in a Great Dane: Henry Gets Bloat
Regardless of how much your dog might typically drool, take note when they start hyper-salivating more than usual.
That is especially true when your dog is showing other signs of distress, such as:
- panting
- pacing
- swollen, painful abdomen
- distress
- restlessness
- labored breathing
- unproductive retching
If your dog is showing these signs, rush them to a veterinarian immediately.

Henry’s story
Henry was a five-year-old Great Dane. He was indeed a gentle giant, affectionate and loving. He enjoyed every minute of his life–playtime, walks with his family, and cuddling. Ignoring their size, these guys love to cuddle.
Henry was in great health. Yes, Henry was a drooler. It wasn’t all his fault. He got excited at the thought of food or treats, but also, their facial anatomy makes Great Danes drool more than most other breeds. So how could his parents tell there was anything unusual about the waterworks?
That afternoon, after they returned from a walk, Henry didn’t seem himself. Not only was he drooling but became restless and wouldn’t settle down. Something was not right. His parents tried to comfort Henry and get him to settle down, but he wouldn’t. Instead, Henry’s breathing became labored too. Something was very wrong, and it was time to seek help.
At the veterinarian
His parents rushed Henry to a veterinary hospital.
The first thing the veterinarian noticed was that, aside from the signs that brought him in, Henry’s abdomen was bloated. They admitted Henry immediately as they suspected he was suffering from bloat/gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). Great Danes are one of the breeds highly susceptible to this life-threatening condition. Without prompt treatment, GDV is almost always fatal.
Henry needed emergency surgery. Because of his parents’ prompt action, Henry survived and recovered well.
Often, susceptible breeds can get this surgery done early, during their spay or neuter.
Source article:
Case Study: Henry’s Bloat
Related articles:
Excessive Drooling in Dogs: Why Is My Dog Drooling More Than Usual?
Gastric Dilatation And Volvulus (GDV): What Causes It?
Further reading:
Bloat: The Mother of All Emergencies