What happens with a dog’s salivary gland cyst?

A dog’s salivary gland cyst usually forms when a salivary duct is blocked or ruptures, causing saliva to leak and accumulate in the surrounding tissue. This can affect the dog’s appearance, causing swelling of the face and under the tongue and an asymmetrical face shape. The cyst may also cause oral pain and discomfort, making the dog reluctant to chew hard food.

If the cyst ruptures, it can lead to bacterial infection, causing local ulceration, pus, redness, and inflammation, which in turn causes frequent drooling and an inability to chew or eat normally. If a salivary cyst is diagnosed, seek veterinary care for surgical removal.