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Why is my dog drooling in his sleep? Could it be kidney failure?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 3 months old | 26.6 lbs

Within the last day, my dog has started drooling while sleeping. We live in NYC where the temps are exceeding 100, but we don't keep him out longer than we have to. Just to go to the bathroom and back in. We are very concerned and have read that this might be from kidney failure and other alarming things. He has not been drinking much water, but he did eat all of his food. When he's awake his nose is wet to the touch. He has been playing as usual, so we are really confused as to what's going on.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on July 21st, 2019

Drooling can be a sign of renal disease, nausea, an infected tooth, a salivary gland infection or a foreign object trapped between the teeth or the roof of the mouth. I recommend to play it safe and have Riley examined by the veterinarian. Definitely keep him cool as pets can get heat stroke. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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