Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Lifestyle

Do Cane Corsos Drool More Than Other Dogs? Vet-Verified Facts & Cleaning Tips

Nicole Cosgrove
By Nicole Cosgrove · Reviewed & fact-checked by Dr. Maja PlatisaVet Approved
Dr. Maja Platisa
Reviewed & Fact-Checked byDr. Maja PlatisaDVM MRCVS (Veterinarian)
Maja joined our team in March 2023 as one of our in-house veterinarians. She is passionate about animals and their health and loves to help the readers with any issues or questions they have regarding their four-legged friends and other animal companions. Her passion is small animal medicine and emergency work, while she also has a great interest in animal welfare.View authorThe information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more
Updated on June 17, 2026
Share
brindle cane corso with uncropped ears sitting outdoors

Dog drool is sticky, can stain clothes, and if your dog shakes a lot, it can end up spread across a room. For this reason, some potential owners worry about owning dogs like St Bernards, which are renowned for being heavy droolers. Dog saliva also contains proteins that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. While allergies are more commonly linked to dander, saliva can still be a contributing factor, meaning heavy droolers may cause issues for some people.

As a large dog with long, loose jowls, Cane Corsos naturally drool more than a lot of other breeds, so if you are looking to avoid dog drool, you may need to look at some different breeds. Read on for reasons Cane Corsos drool, tips to deal with it, and even some tips on how to clean dog drool off the furniture.

divider dog faces oct 2024

Causes of Excessive Drooling

Cane Corsos are large dogs, and while size can play a role, their drooling is mainly due to their loose jowls, which allow saliva to escape more easily. Although they are not the heaviest droolers among dog breeds, owners should still expect some slobber, especially in certain situations where drooling naturally increases.

Causes of hypersalivation include:

  • Hunger – When dogs are hungry and anticipating food, they drool. The same is true of humans and other species of animals, but it is more noticeable in a species like the Cane Corso because the saliva gathers in the mouth before being channeled out of the mouth via the jowls.
  • Just Eaten or Drank – As well as drooling when they want food or water, Cane Corsos may also drool excessively after eating or drinking. Chewing causes the production of saliva, while drinking water means excess water in the mouth of the dog. Both of these factors can cause increased salivation. And when large volumes of saliva mix with an already large volume of water from drinking, it only exacerbates the problem.
  • Anxiety – Anxiety and stress can trigger a host of physical responses, including the production of saliva. Whether your dog is anxious because you’ve been out of the house for several hours or because they can hear a noise they can’t identify, it could be causing the drooling.
  • Nausea– When dogs feel nauseous, they automatically start drooling. An upset stomach can cause drooling as a response to nausea. This is often one of the early signs that a dog may feel unwell.
  • Dental Issues or a Foreign Body – Health problems such as gum disease, infections, or something stuck in the mouth or the back of the throat can irritate the mouth and lead to increased drooling. If drooling is sudden, persistent, or accompanied by other signs, it’s best to consult a veterinarian.
Image Credit: Vivienstock, Shutterstock

How to Clean Drool Off Your Cane Corso

Dog drool can be an irritant if too much of it is left on your dog. It can cause itchiness, which, in turn, can lead to skin complaints. It may also cause your Corso’s coat to become matted and knotted. Therefore, you must help clean the drool off if there is a lot of it.

Use a towel or a damp cloth to remove excess patches and then a fine-tooth comb to brush through the dog’s coat. The comb not only gets rid of any flaky, dried-up saliva, but it also helps to separate the hairs of the coat and therefore prevents matting.

How to Clean Drool Off Furniture and Clothes

Drool is also unsightly when on furniture, and if left too long, it can become very difficult to move. It may also start to smell. Start with a damp cloth and blot the area, ensuring that you don’t get the upholstery too wet.

Household Stain Removers:

  • White vinegar is generally safe for most fabrics, although, as with any cleaning product or chemical, it is always a good idea to test on a very small area around the back of the furniture or in an area where it can’t be seen. On delicate fabrics like silk, some upholstery dyes, or natural fibers like wool and linen, vinegar can cause damage. White vinegar is also an effective cleaner because it is acidic. Mix white vinegar and warm water in equal measures, and then use the solution to blot the stained area. You will be left with a vinegar smell, but a small amount of detergent and water can be sprayed on the material to shift the smell.
  • Baking soda is another good stain remover that most of us have access to because it is already in the kitchen cupboard. As well as helping get rid of stains, through its alkaline nature and mild abrasion, it also helps shift and prevent bad smells, which can make it useful for ground-in drool stains. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a cup of water. You can also add a dash of white vinegar and a drop of dish soap. Wipe excess after applying and vacuum once dry.

Other solutions include isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol, peroxide cleaner, and enzyme cleaner. Always test them on a small hidden spot, as they may bleach or cause discoloration on some fabrics and materials.

Other Stain Removing Solutions

  • When using rubbing alcohol, ensure you use a colorless or light-colored cloth, because the solution can cause dye in the cloth to run onto the furniture. And use a very small amount, sprayed onto the surface, and then blot. Test on a hidden area first, as some fabrics may react poorly to alcohol.
  • When using a peroxide cleaner, use 3% peroxide, mix with a small amount of dish soap, and use a toothbrush to clean the area. Peroxide cleaner won’t normally affect the color of the furniture, but if you are cleaning white upholstery, you may notice that the area looks whiter than the rest, so experiment first.
  • Enzyme cleaners use enzymatic bacteria. This bacterium breaks down the drool, preventing stains and odors. You can’t make enzymatic cleaners at home, but they are available from pet stores and online. Enzyme cleaners are generally safe for most fabrics, but always check the label for suitability and application.
Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock
divider dog faces oct 2024

The 3 Low Drooling Dog Breeds

While the Cane Corso is known as a heavy drooling dog, several breeds are known for the opposite. These can make good pets for those who don’t want to be cleaning up dog drool from the sofa.

1. Greyhound

Image By: Alexandra Morrison Photo, Shutterstock

To many, the Greyhound is the dream pet dog. It likes to lounge around on the sofa but can challenge almost any animal to a record-breaking 100-meter sprint. The breed is known as the fastest couch potato in the world and is not prone to drooling.


2. Irish Wolfhound

Image By: DragoNika, Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a large breed of dog but don’t want the slobber that can accompany these breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is a good option. The breed can stand up to 3 feet at the shoulder and reach a fast gallop thanks to those massive legs.

Although it doesn’t drool a lot, the breed may not be the best option for allergy sufferers because of its long, shedding coat.


3. Poodle

Image By: Tanya Consaul Photography, Shutterstock

The Poodle is often described as being hypoallergenic. Although this is primarily because it doesn’t shed like other dogs, the Poodle is also known to drool less than other breeds. While no dog is completely allergy-free, Poodles may be a good choice for some people prone to allergic reactions who still want a pet dog.

divider dog faces oct 2024

Conclusion

Cane Corsos are an incredible breed of dog. They are strong, muscular, and determined animals. They are also loyal to their family and really enjoy getting out and exercising with their humans.

However, they are known to be quite prolific droolers, which means that they can leave a mess that needs cleaning. Alternative breeds that do not drool heavily include the Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, and Poodle.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: Eudyptula, Shutterstock

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

Nicole Cosgrove
Authored by

Nicole Cosgrove

How to Stop Dog Drooling? Our Vet Explains

How to Stop Dog Drooling? Our Vet Explains

One of the less appetizing features of dog ownership is dealing with drool. While there are some breeds that might seem like they’re drowning in drool (and oth…

Dr. Karyn Kanowski
By Dr. Karyn Kanowski · 2 weeks ago
How Much Does a Mastiff Drool? Vet-Verified Facts & Helpful Tips

How Much Does a Mastiff Drool? Vet-Verified Facts & Helpful Tips

Mastiffs are incredibly adorable and good-natured dogs, but their massive size can be intimidating for many. After all, the English Mastiff is one of the world…

Jeff Weishaupt
By Jeff Weishaupt · 2 weeks ago
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Drool? Vet-Verified Facts & What to Expect

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Drool? Vet-Verified Facts & What to Expect

Do you want to bring home a Bernese Mountain Dog? If so, you might be wondering whether they drool. The short answer is yes, Bernese Mountain Dogs drool quite…

Nicole Cosgrove
By Nicole Cosgrove · 5 days ago
11 Dog Breeds That Drool the Most: With Info, Pictures & Traits

11 Dog Breeds That Drool the Most: With Info, Pictures & Traits

Dogs are known for their unconditional love and loyalty, but some breeds are also known for their slobbery kisses and puddles of drool left behind after naptim…

Sarah Psaradelis
By Sarah Psaradelis · 4 days ago
June 29, 2026

How Much Do Great Danes Drool? Vet-Verified Common Causes & Prevention

Great Danes make fantastic family pets, but due to their large size, many potential Great Dane owners worry they will have to deal with large amounts of drool.…

Ed Malaker
By Ed Malaker
How Much Do Great Danes Drool? Vet-Verified Common Causes & Prevention
June 17, 2026

Does a Cane Corso Shed a Lot? Facts, Tips & FAQ

If you’re looking for a loyal, protective, and playful dog, look no further than the fierce but loving Cane Corso. But if you’ve ever owned a dog before, you’r…

Jeff Weishaupt
By Jeff Weishaupt
Does a Cane Corso Shed a Lot? Facts, Tips & FAQ
June 17, 2026

Do Boxer Dogs Drool? Health Issues, Tips & FAQ

There’s no denying that, as much as we love our dogs, they have some unpleasant habits and traits. Drooling is one trait shared by several dogs, especially Blo…

Greg Iacono
By Greg Iacono
Do Boxer Dogs Drool? Health Issues, Tips & FAQ
June 17, 2026

Is a Cane Corso Hypoallergenic? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

Sadly, the Cane Corso isn't hypoallergenic. However, no dog is truly hypoallergenic—at least as far as science is concerned.1 All dogs produce some allergens,…

Kristin Hitchcock
By Kristin Hitchcock
Is a Cane Corso Hypoallergenic? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ
June 17, 2026

Do Newfoundland Dogs Drool a Lot? Vet-Verified Facts and Tips

The Newfie breed is synonymous with two things in this world—shedding and drooling. It normally sheds like it's in a contest and drools everywhere. If you thin…

Oliver Jones
By Oliver Jones
Do Newfoundland Dogs Drool a Lot? Vet-Verified Facts and Tips
June 17, 2026

How to Clean Dog Drool Off Car Interior: Cleaning Options & Tips

Being a dog parent is incredibly rewarding but can also be quite messy. This holds especially true if you have a dog that is a huge drooler. Drooly breeds can…

Misty Layne
By Misty Layne
How to Clean Dog Drool Off Car Interior: Cleaning Options & Tips
June 17, 2026

Are Cane Corsos Affectionate? Vet-Verified Temperament & Traits

Dominant, territorial, and downright scary, the Cane Corso is a large protective dog that can be aggressive. And it doesn’t exactly fall into the “cute pup” ca…

Nicole Cosgrove
By Nicole Cosgrove
Are Cane Corsos Affectionate? Vet-Verified Temperament & Traits
June 17, 2026

How Aggressive Are Cane Corsos? Temperament & Personality Traits

Aggression is a concerning issue in dogs. If not promptly and correctly managed, aggression can lead to dangerous situations. Aggressive dogs can lunge, bite,…

Jordyn Alger
By Jordyn Alger
How Aggressive Are Cane Corsos? Temperament & Personality Traits

Love Dogs? So Do We! Join the Dogster Community

Stay informed with expert pet care insights delivered straight to your inbox! Discover professional guidance on animal behavior, feeding tips, trusted product picks, and much more.

You may opt-out at any time. View our Privacy Policy for more information.

The Dogster app on a phone