You may have heard that a dog's mouth is “cleaner” than a human's, but that's actually not true.
The myth probably comes from the fact that dogs sometimes lick their wounds and heal without any infection. While it is Sometimes In this case, it does not mean that dogs have cleaner mouths.
Key takeaways
- A dog's mouth is no cleaner than a human's.
- Dog saliva can contain bacteria and other pathogens that can cause illness in humans, especially if it touches an open wound or is ingested.
- People with weakened immune systems, young children, the elderly, and anyone with cuts are at higher risk of illness.
- Dogs use their mouths to explore their environment, increasing their exposure to pathogens that humans do not typically encounter.
- Regular dental care is essential to keeping your dog's mouth as “clean” as possible.
Are dog mouths cleaner than human mouths?
No. Dogs' mouths are no cleaner than humans'.
A 2020 study showed that while dogs and humans may have similar numbers of bacteria in their mouths, the species of bacteria are different. Some bacteria in a dog's mouth may not pose a risk to human health, but others can be dangerous or even fatal to humans.
How “clean” your dog’s mouth is can also vary depending on the timing. For example, if a dog raids a litter box, it can pick up fecal bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella, which can cause gastrointestinal illness. And if they eat spoiled food, they could be exposed to bacteria that can lead to vomiting or diarrhea.
How Dog Mouths Differ From Human Mouths
There are two major differences between a dog's mouth and a human's when it comes to cleanliness: pathogens and behavior. Simply put, pathogens are germs that can cause disease.
Dogs have different pathogens in their mouths
Exact amounts may vary, but a recent paper found that dogs have 714 types of bacteria in their mouths. In contrast, the National Institutes of Health says the human mouth contains about 700 types.
Many of these microorganisms are unique to dogs or humans.
As a result, bacteria that don't cause health problems in dogs can be harmful to humans.
For example, Capnocytophaga canimorsusa bacteria commonly found in dog saliva can be dangerous to humans if it comes into contact with a minor wound, such as from a dog licking it.
Although rare, there have been documented cases of people developing sepsis (also known as blood poisoning).
Dogs use their mouths differently than humans
Dogs also explore their world using their mouths. They lick, chew, and eat things they find in their environment and may drink from untreated water sources like puddles or streams. All of this exposes them to bacteria and other potential pathogens that people don't typically encounter.
These behaviors don't necessarily make your dog's mouth “dirty,” but they do increase the risk that your dog's mouth will harbor pathogens that could make you sick.
Why the human mouth is often healthier
Human mouths are often healthier than dog mouths because we maintain them more consistently. Most people brush, floss, and receive professional dental cleanings, care that many dogs do not receive routinely.
Thus, by the age of 2, approximately 80% of dogs suffer from periodontal disease, a condition associated with bacterial infections. A dog's oral health should always be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Is dog saliva safe for humans?
Dog mouths harbor many bacteria and other potential pathogens, but a dog's saliva poses minimal risk to adults with healthy immune systems.
However, for some people the risk is higher:
Rabies is a deadly disease that can be spread through saliva. Therefore, if you suspect that a dog has been exposed to or has rabies, keep your distance and contact a veterinarian and your own doctor immediately for instructions.
Is it OK to let your dog lick you?
Occasional licking is generally okay if you and your dog are healthy and have no cuts. If you are concerned, you can always wash the area with soap and water afterwards as a precaution.
Never let your dog lick you near your eyes, around your mouth, or near an open wound. These areas provide easy access to mucous membranes or the bloodstream, increasing the risk of infection.
If daily brushing is not possible, brushing several times a week remains beneficial.
Other forms of home dental care
Products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) can help reduce the formation of bacteria-laden plaque and tartar in your dog's mouth. They are best used in tandem with regular brushing at home.
Professional dental cleanings
Even with excellent home care, most dogs need periodic dental cleanings under anesthesia. Your veterinarian can recommend a program based on your dog's oral health.
Dog Mouth FAQ
Is it OK to let your dog lick you?
It depends. For healthy adults, occasional licking of intact skin is generally low risk, but you should avoid letting your dog lick wounds, as well as your mouth and around the eyes. Elderly people, infants and young children, and immunocompromised adults should completely avoid letting dogs lick them.
Is it hygienic for a dog to lick your mouth?
No. A dog that licks its mouth can transfer bacteria (e. coli, for example) and other pathogens directly to your digestive tract, increasing the risk of infection.
Why do dogs have bad breath?
Bad breath in dogs is most often caused by periodontal disease. Bacteria break down food particles and produce an odor. If your dog has bad breath, make an appointment with your veterinarian.
What is the cleanest part of a dog?
It depends. Bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens tend to live in all areas of a dog's body, just like they do in humans. Parts of the body away from the mouth and other openings, as well as the floor, tend to be “cleaner,” but this can vary, especially if a dog has a skin infection or has recently rolled in something dirty.
