Your dog might not give you the common cold, but there are still a few illnesses they can pass along. From bacterial infections to parasites, there are several diseases that can be transmitted from dogs to humans. While some are rare and others more common, it’s important to be aware of the risks. Fortunately, most can be prevented with good hygiene practices and regular vet care. Here are some of the diseases that dogs can share with their owners—and what you can do to avoid them.
Rabies
Rabies is a viral infection that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It’s transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, usually via bites. Dogs can catch it from wild animals like raccoons or bats, and unvaccinated pets can pass it to humans. Immediate treatment after exposure is crucial, and vaccination for pets and humans can prevent the disease.
Ringworm (Dermatophytosis)
Despite its name, ringworm is a fungal infection, not a parasite. Dogs can pass it to humans through direct contact with their infected skin or fur. It appears as red, ring-shaped rashes that are itchy and scaly. While it’s treatable, ringworm is highly contagious, so keeping infected pets separated and practicing good hygiene is key.
Salmonellosis
Caused by Salmonella bacteria, this infection can be passed to humans through contact with contaminated dog feces, raw dog food, or even contaminated water. In humans, it can cause diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Dogs can carry the bacteria without showing symptoms, making it important to wash hands after handling their waste or food.
Leptospirosis
This bacterial infection spreads through contact with the urine of infected animals, including dogs. Humans can get it by touching contaminated water, soil, or directly handling an infected dog. Symptoms range from mild flu-like signs to severe conditions like liver or kidney failure. Vaccinating dogs and avoiding contact with unknown animal urine can help reduce the risk.
Campylobacteriosis
Dogs can carry Campylobacter bacteria in their intestines, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected feces. It’s one of the most common causes of bacterial diarrhea in humans, leading to symptoms like cramps, fever, and nausea. Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands after picking up dog waste, can help prevent transmission.
Lyme Disease
While dogs don’t directly pass Lyme disease to humans, they can carry ticks that spread it. Ticks latch onto dogs during outdoor activities and can later bite humans, transmitting Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease. Regularly checking your dog for ticks and using preventative tick treatments can help keep both pets and owners safe.
Giardiasis
This is a parasitic infection caused by Giardia that dogs can pick up from contaminated water or other animals. Humans can become infected through contact with contaminated dog feces or water. Symptoms include diarrhea, cramps, and nausea. Cleaning up after your dog promptly and washing hands thoroughly can reduce the risk of this uncomfortable infection.
Roundworms (Toxocariasis)
Roundworms are common intestinal parasites in dogs, and humans, especially children, can accidentally ingest their eggs through contact with contaminated soil or surfaces. In severe cases, the infection can cause serious health issues like organ damage, especially to the eyes and liver. Regular deworming of pets is essential to prevent this potentially harmful transmission.
Hookworms
Hookworm larvae can penetrate human skin, leading to a condition called cutaneous larva migrans, which causes itchy, red, snake-like tracks on the skin. Humans typically become infected by walking barefoot on soil contaminated with dog feces. Regular deworming, proper disposal of waste, and wearing shoes outdoors can prevent this unpleasant infection.
Scabies (Sarcoptic Mange)
Scabies, caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, can be passed from infected dogs to humans. The mites burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching and red, rash-like bumps. While scabies in dogs can be treated with medicated baths and topical ointments, humans who catch it need similar treatments to eliminate the mites. Preventing contact with infected animals can reduce the risk of spread.
Brucellosis
Although rare, Brucellosis can spread from dogs to humans through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, urine, or birthing tissues. In humans, it can cause fever, joint pain, and fatigue, sometimes leading to chronic issues. The infection is more common in breeding kennels. Responsible breeding practices and regular testing can help prevent transmission.
Capnocytophaga Canimorsus Infection
This rare bacterial infection can be passed through dog bites or close contact with a dog’s saliva. While usually harmless to most people, it can be serious for those with weakened immune systems, leading to sepsis, fever, or skin infections. Good wound care after any dog bite and maintaining proper pet hygiene can help reduce the risk of this infection.
Echinococcosis (Hydatid Disease)
Echinococcus tapeworms can infect dogs, and their eggs can be transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated dog feces. In humans, the eggs can cause cysts to form in organs like the liver and lungs, leading to serious health complications. Preventive measures include regular deworming of dogs and proper hygiene when handling their waste.
MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
Dogs can carry MRSA bacteria on their skin or in their noses and transmit it to humans through close contact. This antibiotic-resistant strain can cause skin infections and other more serious complications. While infections are uncommon, those with compromised immune systems should be cautious, and regular pet hygiene helps minimize the risk.
Cryptosporidiosis
Caused by Cryptosporidium parasites, this infection spreads through contact with contaminated dog feces. In humans, it leads to symptoms like watery diarrhea, cramps, and nausea. It can be more severe for individuals with weakened immune systems. Cleaning up after pets immediately and washing hands thoroughly afterward can help prevent the spread of this parasite.
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