Get

In Your Inbox

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

How Much Do Boston Terriers Drool? Breed Habits & Managing Tips

Boston Terrier dog drooling and dribbling

Whether you’re considering bringing home a Boston Terrier for the first time or have noticed an increase in drooling in your dog, it’s only natural to seek answers regarding their drooling tendencies.

Boston Terriers are loving and adorable dogs with low drooling tendencies. Their distinctive appearance, lively personalities, and affectionate nature make them a favorite breed among pet lovers.

In this article, we will delve deeper into Boston Terriers and drooling and provide practical tips to manage and reduce it.

Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

How Much Do Boston Terriers Drool?

Boston Terriers are generally a low to moderate drooling breed. They tend to have minimal drooling compared to other breeds, such as Mastiffs or Saint Bernards.

This is all thanks to their unique facial structure. They have a relatively short, compact muzzle with a slightly undershot bite, which means their lower jaw extends slightly beyond the upper jaw. This feature helps reduce their drooling significantly.

However, it’s important to note that individual dogs within the breed may still exhibit varying degrees of drooling.

boston terrier with collar
Image Credit: Vera Zinkova, Shutterstock

dogster face divider

What Causes Drooling in Boston Terriers?

Drooling in Boston Terriers can be attributed to a variety of factors. Here are some of the common ones.

1. Excitement or Anticipation

Boston Terriers are known to be lively and enthusiastic dogs.

Playtime, meals, walks, or other exciting experiences can activate their salivary glands and cause drooling. This drooling is typically temporary and subsides once the excitement or anticipation diminishes.


2. Heat and Panting

Like other dogs, Boston Terriers pant to regulate their body temperature when it’s hot. Panting involves rapid and shallow breathing, which causes excessive salivation. As a result, your dog may experience increased drooling during hot weather. This is a natural response to dissipate heat from their bodies.

Closed up smiling female Boston Terrier showing her tongue and bending ears in backyard under natural light
Image Credit: Siva Nattharom, Shutterstock

3. Nausea or Gastrointestinal Issues

Your dog can also drool because of nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort. The animal will drool more if it has an upset stomach or indigestion. Excessive drooling is often accompanied by other signs such as vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy. In such a situation, consult a veterinarian immediately.


4. Dental Problems

Boston Terriers also drool excessively due to poor dental health.

Oral issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, or infections can cause discomfort and increased salivation. Your Boston Terrier’s drooling will appear persistently or be accompanied by signs of dental problems such as bad breath, swollen gums, or difficulty eating. Schedule a dental examination with a veterinarian to fix the underlying problem before it worsens.

How to Manage and Reduce Drooling in Boston Terriers

Your Boston Terrier’s drooling can sometimes be an inconvenience or a cause for concern. It may not be possible to eliminate drooling in these dogs, but there are things you could do to manage and reduce the drooling.

boston terrier dog lying
Image Credit: bubutu, Shutterstock

1. Keep Water and Food Bowls Elevated

Raising the height of your Boston Terrier’s water and food bowls can help reduce drooling during meals. Place the bowls at a comfortable level to minimize the strain on their neck and reduce the likelihood of excess saliva production.


2. Use Bibs or Drool Towels

Consider using drool bibs or towels around your Boston Terrier’s neck, especially during mealtime. This is when they’re likely to drool more. Drool bibs and towels can help absorb and catch the drool, keeping their chin and chest area clean and dry.


3. Regular Grooming

Proper and consistent grooming habits are essential for managing drooling. Wipe your Boston Terrier’s mouth and chin after meals or when drooling occurs to keep them clean and dry. Regularly cleaning their facial folds and ensuring their teeth and gums are healthy also contribute to oral hygiene.

boston terrier taking a bath
Image By: hedgehog94, Shutterstock

4. Training and Behavior Modification

Train your Boston Terrier to respond to a command like “chin” or “wipe”. This can be accompanied by providing them with a soft cloth or towel to wipe their own mouth after drinking or drooling. Consistent reinforcement of this command can help minimize drool-related messes.


5. Reduce Anxiety and Stress

Creating a calm and secure environment for your Boston Terrier is crucial. Remember, stress and anxiety can contribute to increased drooling. Provide your dog with a comfortable and quiet space, engage in regular exercise and mental stimulation, and consider techniques such as desensitization or using calming aids recommended by your veterinarian.


6. Veterinary Care and Consultation

Schedule regular dental examinations for your Boston Terrier to ensure their oral health is optimal. Professional dental cleanings and treatments can address any underlying issues contributing to drooling.

boston terrier dog at clinic with owner
Image By: Ground Picture, Shutterstock

dogster face divider

Keeping Your Boston Terrier Safe and Healthy

Here are some tips to help you provide a safe and healthy environment for your Boston Terrier and reduce the risk of drooling-related issues.

Provide a Balanced Diet

Your Boston Terrier’s diet should be balanced and nutritious to meet its nutritional needs. A well-balanced diet promotes good health and can minimize excessive drooling.

Consult a veterinarian to determine the appropriate type and amount of food for your dog if not sure.

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1

Properly Manage Your Dog’s Weight

It is important that your dog maintains a healthy weight.

Obesity can exacerbate drooling tendencies and lead to other health issues, such as heart disease and respiratory problems. Monitor your dog’s calorie intake, provide appropriate portions, and exercise regularly to keep them at optimal weight.

Provide Regular Exercise

Regular exercise keeps them physically and mentally stimulated. Consider taking your dog on daily walks, interactive playtime, and activities that help prevent boredom and anxiety. This will go a long way in avoiding any drooling associated with stress.

boston terrier running on grass
Image By: Zero Degrees Photography, Shutterstock

Offer Proper Dental Care

Maintaining a proper dental care routine for your dog will go a long way in preventing excessive drooling.

You can do this by regularly brushing their teeth with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste recommended by your veterinarian. Brushing helps prevent dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay, which can contribute to excessive drooling.

Consider dental treats and safe chew toys to promote oral health. Chewing on appropriate items can help remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of dental problems and drooling.

Keep the Temperature Within Safe Levels

Boston Terriers are susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure.

Don’t expose them to extreme heat; ensure they have access to shade, fresh water, and a well-ventilated environment. Monitor them closely during hot weather to prevent overheating and excessive drooling.

boston terrier posing in the park
Image Credit: Eve Photography, Shutterstock

Remove Any Hazards and Toxins

You should create a safe living environment for your Boston Terrier by eliminating potential hazards and toxins. Keep household cleaners, chemicals, medications, and harmful plants out of their reach. Also, secure garbage cans and other potentially dangerous items to prevent ingestion.

Maintain Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Schedule routine veterinary check-ups to monitor your Boston Terrier’s overall health. Vaccinations, parasite prevention, and regular examinations are essential for their well-being and can help prevent or manage conditions contributing to drooling.

Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

In Conclusion

Boston Terriers are generally not excessive droolers. Their unique facial structure contributes to their reduced drooling tendencies. However, it’s possible to see significant drooling due to factors such as dental problems, stomach issues, excitement, anticipation, heat, and panting. Nonetheless, it is typically minimal and manageable.

Ultimately, Boston Terriers can lead happy and drool-free lives with proper care and attention to their well-being.

See also:


Featured Image Credit: Sue Thatcher, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How to Deal With Dog Nuisance Barking in Your Neighborhood: 4 Effective Tips

Dealing with noisy dogs in your neighborhood can be frustrating. On one hand, nuisance barking can have a huge effect on your life....

10 Richest Dogs on Earth (With Pictures)

As dog owners, we strive to enrich our pets’ lives with playtime, exercise, and the best food and toys to keep them healthy...

Male vs. Female Cockapoo: The Differences (With Pictures)

The Cockapoo is a hybrid dog that was first introduced to the world in the 1960s and has been growing in popularity ever...

How to Train a Boston Terrier: 13 Expert Tips & Tricks

Boston Terriers are fun, lively, and amiable little dogs that can make great pets. They can also be quite easygoing and get along...

More related

Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Marin County, CA (2025 Update)

Marin County is a fun place to spend time outdoors with your dog. The weather may not be conducive to swimming all the...

Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale: 2025 US Breeders List

According to the American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the United States due in large part to...

How Prone Are Golden Retrievers to Ear Infections? Vet-Verified Facts & Tips

An ear infection is one of the most common ailments in dogs. About 20% of all dogs will suffer from one at some...

Why Do Dogs Sit by the Door? 7 Vet-Verified Possible Reasons

Does your dog have a habit of sitting by the door? If so, you might wonder exactly why they’re doing that. After all,...

Keep reading

When Can a Puppy Eat Dry Food Without Water? Vet Approved Feeding Guide

So, you’ve added water to your pup’s dry food to soften it. Or maybe you’re just feeding your puppy wet food. That’s great! Puppies need moist, soft food while their teeth develop. But the time is slowly creeping up to...

When Can a Puppy Eat Dry Food Without Water

Can Dogs Eat Olives? Vet-Approved Nutrition Facts & FAQ

If you’re one of those people who love eating olives, whether on a pizza or in a salad, you may wonder if your dog can eat olives too. Generally, dogs can eat olives in moderation, as they are not toxic;...

9 Best Dog Foods for Toy Poodles in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

The Toy Poodle is a small dog breed popular for its boisterous personality and fluffy, curly coat. These Poodles, like other toy breeds, are susceptible to digestive upset and require a diet that’s ideal for their sensitive stomachs. In addition,...

poodle dog eating

Regular vs Premium Dog Food: What’s the Difference? Vet Reviewed Facts

As consumers demand, manufacturers will supply. Consumers spoke throughout the early 2000s, asking for a more balanced diet for themselves and their pets. The market then exploded with trending phrases like “Premium,” Super Premium,” and “Ultra Premium.” The truth about...

Dogster_Regular vs Premium Dog Food

Inukshuk Dog Food Review 2025: Pros, Cons, Recalls & FAQ

Inukshuk is not a brand that most people are familiar with, but we hope to change that! Inukshuk dog food is for very active dogs. They have four recipes, which vary in the percentage of protein they offer. Therefore, you...

Dogster_Inukshuk Dog Food Review

How to Cook Chicken & Rice for Dogs: Vet-Approved Bland Diet

For dogs recovering from illness, veterinarians often recommend bland food like homemade chicken and rice 1. It’s an easy-to-digest, low-fat, single-protein diet that is great for gastrointestinal problems. When a dog is sick, this protein and carbohydrate mix can also...

Woman Coocking In A Kitchen Beside a Dog

Kirkland vs Blue Buffalo Dog Food Comparison 2025: Which Is Better?

Choosing the right food for your dog should be simple, right? We get it—with countless brands, endless ingredient lists, and ever-evolving advice on what’s best for each dog, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What’s truly healthy for our furry friends?...

Dogster_Dog Food Kirkland VS Blue Buffalo

Can Dogs Eat Caviar? Vet-Reviewed Nutrition Facts

As dog owners, we want the best for our pets, including what they eat. However, some dog parents take things to the next level by offering their pups gourmet human foods, such as caviar. While dogs can occasionally eat caviar,...

Can Dogs Eat_Cassava