Doggy kiss. That extra wet lick, leaving dog saliva. What else? What about doing a nose-to-nose greeting by the door once you arrive from work?
Perhaps your dog does any of these to you, and you find that super sweet (because, after all, it is indeed such a sweet gesture from one tagged as your best friend!). Some say it is okay to be wet in dog saliva because, anyway, their dog’s mouths are cleaner than theirs. Wait a minute, is that really true? Read along for you to find out!
How clean is a dog’s mouth?
Just as you thought your dogs have cleaner mouths than human mouths, the answer is a big, fat “NO”. A dog’s mouth contains numerous bacteria similar to a human’s mouth. But it does not mean these two different species share the same kinds of microbes.
How dirty is a dog’s mouth?
Now that you know your dog’s mouth is not really cleaner than a human’s mouth, the next thing you need to find out is how dirty your dog’s mouth can get. The oral microbiome dwells in both a canine and a human mouth.
In dogs, the number of bacterial species living in their mouths is 400. In humans, on the other hand, the number of bacterial species in their mouths ranges between 400 to 500. Harvard researchers even further identified other bacteria making it a total of 600 different bacteria species in dogs and some 615 in people. These are facts, and there is no need for you to verify this with a bacterial geneticist.
Of the given number of oral bacteria, only 15 percent of them are sharable between humans and dogs. The same is even true with cats versus people. In other words, the rest, or about 85 percent of these bacteria are different across the two species. That has been the reason behind the idea that our four-legged friend’s mouth is cleaner than ours.
Should I let my dog lick my face?
Some believe that a dog’s saliva has therapeutic effects. The popular idea that dates back to the ancient Greeks is that a wound, once licked by a pup, would heal faster.
Saliva from most mammals — humans and dogs’ saliva included — contains histatins. These are proteins that help in preventing infection. Aside from those facts, saliva also has molecules that have antibacterial properties, which are called peptides.
In fact, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has long recognized the benefits that licking can bring. Aside from allowing your pup to clean the area around the wound from dirt and debris, it can also lower the risk of a possible infection.
But that is in cases of wounds your dog may have on themselves. There is nothing in it though that says you need to have your dog lick your own wounds too.
You may say there is nothing to worry about because that is your own dog anyway. However, even if you think it can be totally harmless and your pup has already kissed you countless times that you even get used to it, there are still some cases where it ended quite badly.
As said, a dog’s mouth contains numerous microbes. That means that getting a lick, or worse, a bite from a dog can be dangerous, especially on open skin.
According to National Geographic, around 10 to 15 percent of dog bites can become infectious, while half of that is from cat bites. Thus, dog bites can lead to a possible infection which, at times, leads to amputations, have caused comas in some people, and even death.
For some people with a healthier immune system, getting a lick may not be a source of concern for them. But still, it is always good to practice good hygiene.
Thoroughly wash the licked area with soap and run through warm water. After all, it is always good to be safe than be sorry later on.
Can humans get dog germs?
As 85 percent do not belong to the same bacterial family, most diseases are not readily passed on from dogs to humans and vice-versa. If you catch flu and sneeze on your dog, you can’t pass on that flu to your dog in the same way that should your dog catch kennel cough, you can’t acquire the same type of sickness from your dog.
Are there exceptions to that though? With the pandemic that the world has been facing lately, we have heard of news wherein pets have tested positive for Covid-19. This virus, though, is different, and it can be passed on between humans and animals who have come in close contact with someone who has contracted the virus.
Bacterial infections
Pasteurella canis is the most common bacteria which is you can find in a dog’s mouth and is likewise the most common organism. You can actually find this on a human’s skin after a dog bite. Once a dog bites, a dog bacteria called the Capnocytophaga canimorsus is transmitted through the wound, and this can cause severe infections among people suffering from a bite.
Individuals who are classified as immunocompromised may suffer more severity from a bite wound. But who are these people tagged as immunocompromised? These vulnerable people are pregnant women and seniors whose ages are over 65, and the list also includes children below five years old. Also, another factor that can affect a bite wound’s severity is its location.
If you feed your dogs a raw diet, they have a higher risk of contracting Salmonella, which is highly transmissible to people. Eating contaminated food also puts your dog at risk of getting E. coli, and much worse if they are fond of raiding the litter box.
Viral infections (Rabies)
Perhaps the most severe infection a dog can transmit through its saliva is rabies, and it can spread as soon as an infected dog has bitten a human. The rabies virus attacks the nervous system causing varied symptoms.
How do you know when a dog has rabies? Initially, it would show signs of nervousness and anxiety. As days pass by, you will notice a dog loses coordination and becomes disoriented. It then becomes aggressive and may start attacking random objects. Seizures and tremors can also be manifested among rabid dogs.
Should you notice any dog showing any of the mentioned symptoms, call your local police department or animal control right away. Never get near rabid dogs as you can be at risk of a possible attack at any time. Once you contract rabies, this can potentially cause your life.
Parasites (roundworms)
Aside from viruses and bacteria, dogs can be prone to intestinal parasites like roundworms. This is especially true if they eat debris in your yard or eat stool.
You cannot really say that your dog’s mouth is cleaner than the ones staying outdoors. Even if they spend the rest of the day indoors, if they raid litter boxes and play or eat the soil on your indoor pots, the risk of taking in roundworm eggs can be high.
How important is a dog’s oral hygiene?
As responsible dog owners, oral care for your dogs is not something that should be taken lightly. Oral health should always be on top of the list when it comes to doggie hygiene.
Your dog can put almost anything in his mouth, and you sure have witnessed your dog licking on anything: be it the TV remote control, or even going to the toilet. Yes, some dogs drink from the toilet bowl, and that alone can be so disgusting.
All the stuff to which your dog sticks its tongue or puts into his mouth can be laden with bacteria which can increase your dog’s mouth bacteria, which more often than not, are harmful bacteria. That being said, with more reasons that owners should be on the lookout when cleaning their dog’s mouth regularly.
Dogs with poor dental care practices can, later on, lead to dental diseases like periodontal disease. Tooth decay and halitosis (bad breath) are some other dental conditions that your dog may suffer also.
Regular dental care includes regular cleanings done by a professional. Never hesitate to seek expert advice to help you manage your dog’s oral health.
Are small breeds more prone to dental problems?
No breed is excused from the observance of proper oral hygiene although special mention has to be made to small dog breeds. What is the reason behind that? Do you have weaker teeth and gums? Are they more vulnerable than bigger dog breeds?
Most small breeds are predisposed to dental problems than larger breed dogs because of genetic features like the anatomy of their faces, heads, and mouths. Thus, owners must have a full understanding of oral health and proactively support good dental care practices for their small dogs to ensure their wellness and longevity.
Poor dog oral health equals poor bodily health
You cannot say that a dog with poor oral health has healthy bodily health. It always goes hand-in-hand. Canine health practitioners have revealed that smaller breeds are likewise prone to ailments later in life.
Heart diseases in people can be linked also to gum diseases and as with dogs, the gum tissue can be a dwelling place for bacteria. The possibility of the bacteria entering the bloodstream is high.
Toy breeds like the Chihuahuas and Yorkies to name a few are increasingly becoming popular among dog enthusiasts. As a result, the number of canines suffering from the periodontal disease has also boomed to about 90%.
As early as one year of age, pups begin to manifest poor oral health conditions. Loss of jaw bone density is common among dogs classified as small breeds.
How do you make dog mouths cleaner than humans?
If you are wondering how to keep your pup’s oral microbiome healthy, the solution to this is good oral hygiene and care so here is a guide for you to keep your dog’s mouth clean:
1. Brushing your pup’s teeth should be done regularly, about 2-3 times a week.
You may use finger brushes (the one that you wear on your finger like a glove) or a soft-bristled baby toothbrush. It is just natural for them to feel uncomfortable during the first few tries.
You might even be in a situation where your dog would fight with you and will never sit still. However, if you make it a constant routine, then they will get used to it. Add it as part of your pup’s obedience training.
2. Always use pet-safe toothpaste for your dogs.
Seek veterinary advice as to the best toothpaste for your dog. Take note, human toothpaste is a no-no. It contains xylitol which can be toxic for your furry friend.
Doggy toothpaste is specially formulated for them and is non-toxic. To make brushing interesting, manufacturers have added tasty flavors like chicken and peanut butter so they will associate brushing time with a fun, enjoyable, and yummy experience.
3. Sprinkling dental powder on your dog’s food during meals.
4. Use canine dental water additives.
The use of dental water additives has become popular lately. As the name suggests, this solution is added to water and it is quite easy to use.
This will help your pooch deal with bad breath. There are some dogs that are more susceptible to tooth decay, so owners should immediately seek medical attention and discuss with the vet the possibility of using dental sealants.
If you can imagine what these dental water additives do, if they were in human mouths, they could act like mouthwash.
5. Seek the vet’s advice about canine prescription dental diets.
If you are an advocate of raw feeding, you may want to give your doggos some alternatives to that kind of diet or perhaps go on a half-raw, half-dry food. But still, that would depend upon the vet’s assessment of your pet’s overall health.
6. Provide your pup with the recommended dental chews and treats.
Apart from regularly brushing your dog’s teeth, you need to provide them with treats and toys that would help keep tartar and plaque from building up. Kong toys are not just a great way to keep your pup busy and preoccupied but also give it good dental exercise.
Treats especially made for teeth cleaning or their favorite doggie toothpaste may be hidden in Kong toys.
Another aid in maintaining better canine dental health is doggie dental treats. Note, however, that the dental treats you should be giving your dogs should only be the ones that bear the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s Seal of Acceptance.
Rawhide bone can also strengthen your pet’s gums and teeth. When giving rawhides to your furry friends, be extra careful as if your dogs are strong chewers, they can break them easily into large chunks, which may result in choking and even intestinal blockage. Once the rawhide gets soft, be sure that you are able to take that right away from your pup.
There are still numerous chew toys that have bristles and ridges that can help prevent tartar and plaque buildup. It does not mean that because these dental toys are available, you would now be lenient with brushing. Remember not to forget to brush your dog’s teeth, as that will always top all dental care regimens.
7. Take your pup for regular dental care sessions with the vet.
Dental cleaning and other procedures are carried out by a professional. These are usually done by putting your pup under general anesthesia. So these procedures can only be done at vet clinics and never at home.
In most cases, proper diagnosis is only reached after the vet has taken x-rays of your pet’s gums and mouth. Vets can also prescribe oral medicine to help treat your pet’s dental disease.
Conclusion
Comparing dog mouths to ours is like comparing apples to oranges. They may have some similarities in some aspects but are never the same.
A pup’s mouth is not necessarily cleaner than yours. As explained, the bad news is that: like the human mouth, it contains a lot of bacteria. On the other hand, the good news is that these bacteria are zoonotic. That means it is less likely for you to catch diseases from a dog kiss.
Keeping your dog’s mouth cleaner is, first and foremost, your responsibility as a dog owner. It might not be as clean as you expect it to be, relying on the old saying, but keeping their mouths healthy can do wonders.
Related topic: Can older dogs get parvo?
*photo by art2435 – depositphotos