Many dog owners have a close bond with their pets and show affection by kissing them on the mouth. However, this seemingly innocent act stirs up debate about whether it’s safe or hygienic. This article explores the potential risks and benefits to help you decide if mouth kissing your dog is right for your relationship.
What are the potential risks of kissing your dog on the mouth?
Kissing your dog on the mouth does involve some health considerations. Here are a few of the potential risks:
Spread of bacteria and germs
Dogs’ mouths contain many more bacteria than humans’. When you kiss your dog, you risk exposure to zoonotic diseases – illnesses that can spread between animals and people. Some examples include:
| Disease | Cause |
| Rabies | Rabies virus |
| Campylobacteriosis | Campylobacter bacteria |
| Salmonellosis | Salmonella bacteria |
| Capnocytophaga | Capnocytophaga bacteria |
| Brucellosis | Brucella bacteria |
| Leptospirosis | Leptospira bacteria |
| Pasteurellosis | Pasteurella bacteria |
While most of these illnesses are rare in dogs, transmission could occur through licking, saliva, or contact with bite wounds.
Oral infections
Dogs may carry bacteria, viruses, or fungi in their mouths that could potentially be passed to humans through direct contact like kissing. Some examples include canine distemper virus and canine influenza.
Parasites
Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and giardia can sometimes be present in dog saliva and potentially transmitted through mouth kissing, although the risk is low.
Injuries from bites
While most dogs tolerance kissing, accidental bites or scratches could occur, especially in dogs who are not accustomed to it. These can become infected if not cleaned properly.
Allergic reactions
Some people may be allergic to substances present in dog saliva, dander, or fur. Direct contact like kissing could trigger reactions like red, itchy skin or swelling.
What are the potential benefits of kissing your dog?
Despite some risks, there may also be some advantages to kissing your dog on the mouth in certain circumstances.
Strengthening the human-animal bond
For some dog owners, kissing is a natural expression of affection that may deepen the loving bond between pet and human. Positive interactions like these can have benefits like:
- Increasing oxytocin levels (the “love hormone”) in both dog and human
- Lowering stress and anxiety
- Providing comfort and security
- Enhancing communication and trust
Boosting mood
Kissing a beloved pet stimulates the release of feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. This can elevate mood, ease depression, and provide stress relief.
Supporting the immune system
Exposure to dog microbes may help strengthen the human immune response over time, especially in children. However, more research is needed on how mouth kissing specifically impacts immunity.
Convenience and speed
Lip kissing can be a quick and convenient way for some owners to express affection, especially when they don’t have time for longer displays like petting or playing.
Best practices for safely kissing dogs
If you choose to kiss your dog, following some basic hygiene and training practices can help reduce risks:
Keep the dog’s oral hygiene in check
Brush your dog’s teeth, provide chew toys and dental treats, feed a high-quality diet, and get regular veterinary dental exams. Good oral health will reduce bacteria levels.
Avoid kissing with open wounds
Don’t kiss your dog if you or your dog has puncture wounds, lacerations, or bleeding gums or lips. Wait until fully healed.
Rinse your mouth after kissing
Swish water around or use mouthwash to wash away any potential germs transferred during kissing.
Monitor your health after close contact
Watch for signs of illness like fever, fatigue, nausea, or rash after interactions involving intimacy like kissing. See your doctor if symptoms develop.
Train your dog to enjoy kissing
Get your dog comfortable with mouth touching and kissing through positive reinforcement training, starting slowly with treats and praise. Never force it if your dog shows signs of anxiety or dislike.
Avoid kissing unfamiliar dogs
Only kiss dogs you know well and who appear clean, healthy, and comfortable with that type of contact after training. Don’t attempt to kiss unknown dogs.
The bottom line
Here are some key summary points on whether you should kiss your dog on the lips:
- Some level of health risk exists, mainly transmission of bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungal infections.
- Benefits like stronger bonding, elevated mood, and potential immune support are unproven but possible.
- Take precautions like maintaining oral hygiene, monitoring health, and proper training to reduce risks.
- Avoid kissing dogs unfamiliar with the practice or who seem uncomfortable or anxious.
- Only kiss your dog if you’re fully informed of the pros and cons for your specific situation.
Kissing your dog is ultimately a personal decision based on your own tolerance for risk, evaluation of benefits, and the unique circumstances of you and your pet. While not necessarily dangerous if proper precautions are taken, there are definite health considerations to be aware of. As with any close interaction, it’s smart to be knowledgeable and act thoughtfully when showing affection to your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions dog owners have about kissing their pets on the lips:
Is it safe for immunocompromised people to kiss dogs?
Immunocompromised people are at higher risk of some illnesses that dogs can transmit. It’s best to avoid dog kissing and follow strict hygiene practices when interacting with pets if you have a weakened immune system.
Can kissing spread rabies between dogs & humans?
While very rare, it is possible for rabies to spread through a bite wound or contact with saliva of an infected dog. Avoid kissing and seek medical care if you’re exposed to a rabid animal.
What parasites can be passed from dogs to humans from kissing?
Intestinal parasites like giardia, coccidia, hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms could potentially be passed through saliva contact, although risk is low.
Can kissing cause infections in dogs?
Yes, dogs can catch infections from human saliva. Take care not to transfer illness like colds, flu, or fever blisters through mouth kissing. Avoid kissing if you or your dog are sick.
Do dogs like being kissed by humans?
Most dogs who are used to it do not mind or even enjoy human kisses in moderation. However, unfamiliar dogs or those anxious around their face/mouth may dislike it. Know your dog’s signals and don’t force unwanted contact.
Is it unethical to kiss your dog?
Views vary on whether dog-kissing is right or wrong. Some see it as a mutual display of affection, while others consider forcing kisses to be disrespectful. As long as your dog isn’t distressed or at health risk, it’s ultimately up to personal values.
Conclusion
Kissing your canine companion can be a sweet sign of friendship, but also comes with some genuine health hazards like transmission of bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi. While the benefits are less proven, mouth kissing may deepen social bonds, elevate mood, and support immunity for some. Using caution and common sense when showing doggie affection is advised. Consider your personal risk tolerance, your dog’s temperament, and alternatives like patting or cuddling before deciding if lip locks with your furry pal are right for you!