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Dogs are affectionate, messy, and curious animals that often explore their environment by sniffing or even tasting unfamiliar objects. This raises questions about whether it's safe to let them share our homes, sleep in our beds, or lick our faces while we prioritize our health.
While Dogs Can Transmit Diseases, the Risk to Humans Is Generally Low
Many illnesses are species-specific. For instance, dogs can contract parvovirus or canine influenza, which they can spread to other dogs but not to humans or cats. This means, from a disease perspective, kissing a dog might be safer than kissing a person. (Although humans are less likely to bite in return.)
However, some illnesses can be transmitted from dogs to humans because dogs carry germs they are resistant to, but humans are not. These zoonotic diseases can transfer from animals to people, and dogs may carry several of them. WebMD notes that rabies, Lyme disease, and various types of worms can be contracted from dogs. Leptospirosis is another risk, particularly for young children, pregnant individuals, those undergoing chemotherapy, and people with HIV or weakened immune systems. Thankfully, vaccinations and routine veterinary care can minimize the risk of your dog transmitting these diseases.
There are also lesser-known zoonotic diseases: for instance, a study published in Veterinary Microbiology found that 74% of tested dogs carried a bacteria called Capnocytophaga Canimorsus, which can be fatal to humans in rare cases, though transmission is uncommon.
Can Dog Germs Actually Benefit Us?
Exposure to certain dog germs might not be entirely harmful, according to the hygiene hypothesis. This theory proposes that encountering allergens and germs can help strengthen a person’s immune system. One study found that homes with pets contained higher levels of 56 potentially beneficial bacterial species.
“Introducing certain bacteria into our systems can help our immune systems function more effectively,” explains Dr. Jason Stull, a zoonotic disease expert at Ohio State University. However, he cautions against indiscriminate exposure to bacteria. “The challenge is that not all bacteria, viruses, or organisms are safe for humans,” Stull adds. “It’s crucial to be selective about the types of bacterial exposure we allow.”
How can I ensure my safety?
Stull, who wrote a paper on minimizing the risk of zoonotic infections from pets, owns two dogs. He avoids letting his dogs lick his face and always washes his hands after handling their waste. When his children were under five, he ensured the dogs didn’t get too close to their faces to prevent the spread of germs through licking.
Preventing illnesses from dogs begins at the adoption stage. Choose a dog that suits your lifestyle and temperament. Schedule regular vet visits and ensure they receive all necessary vaccinations. (The American Veterinary Medical Association provides a list of 12 diseases preventable through vaccinations and de-worming.) Train your dog to behave well and avoid biting. Educate yourself on how to safely interact with dogs to prevent situations where they might feel threatened.
Beyond that, prioritize cleanliness for your hands, home, and dog.
If a dog bites you and breaks the skin, the situation becomes more serious, and cleanliness alone won’t suffice. In such cases, seek medical attention immediately. Determine the dog’s rabies vaccination status, as rabies can be transmitted through bites and is almost always fatal without prompt treatment.
Therefore, excessive concern about dog germs isn’t necessary for most people. The advantages of having a dog often surpass the potential risks. “For the majority of healthy individuals, pets present minimal health risks and offer numerous benefits,” Stull explained. “These include enhanced mental well-being and reduced blood pressure. However, certain groups—such as children under five, pregnant women, individuals over 65, and those with compromised immune systems—should take additional precautions.”
