We’ve all heard it before: “A dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s.” For dog owners who delight in receiving their pet’s slobbery kisses, this saying often serves as a comforting justification. But how much truth is there to this adage, especially when it comes to letting your dog lick your face?
As a skin care writer, I’ve always had a bit of a dilemma when it comes to my dog’s affectionate gestures. On the one hand, my dog is my heart and soul, and how can I resist his loving licks? On the other hand, as someone who’s all too familiar with how bacteria and impurities can affect skin, I’ve wondered just how risky it really is to let him plant a kiss on my face—especially after he’s just explored the yard and sampled the “snacks” left by local wildlife.
While the occasional breakout might seem like a minor trade-off for your furry friend’s love, recent medical reports (including a tragic story in 2019 of a woman who lost all four limbs after a kiss from her dog led to a deadly infection) have raised serious concerns about the risks. So, is it safe to let your dog lick your face, or should we practice more caution when our pets express their affection?
How “Clean” Is Your Dog’s Mouth?
Dr. Tessa LeCuyer, a veterinary clinical microbiologist at the University of California, Davis, makes it clear: no mouth is truly “clean.” Both human and dog mouths host a variety of bacteria. While dogs’ mouths aren’t inherently cleaner than ours, the types of bacteria they harbor can differ. Many dogs have an affinity for exploring feces or carrion, which can introduce harmful bacteria and parasites like salmonella and roundworms, particularly when they snack on animal remains or feces.
Dr. LeCuyer notes that while dogs’ occasional indulgence in these “forbidden snacks” generally doesn’t lead to disease, certain bacteria and parasites—such as salmonella from bird feces—can be transmitted to humans through close contact. Dogs that eat raw meat, whether carrion or part of their diet, are also at an elevated risk for pathogens like salmonella and listeria.
Thankfully, proper hygiene—like handwashing after handling your dog or cleaning up after them—greatly reduces the risk of transmission. However, if your dog has a penchant for indulging in unsavory treats, you might want to reconsider those close-face kisses, as bacteria and parasites can be transferred during licking.
Can Dog Saliva Harm Your Skin?
Most of us have an immune system equipped to handle the microbes found in a dog’s mouth, but skin remains the first line of defense. “The most common way bacteria in a dog’s mouth cause problems is when there’s a break in the skin,” explains Dr. LeCuyer. A scratch or wound can allow these bacteria to penetrate deeper, increasing the risk of infection.
Dr. Danielle Dubin, a board-certified dermatologist, agrees that dog bites—especially on the face or hands—pose a greater risk for skin infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. However, licking is generally less risky unless there is a cut, rash, or other skin damage. “If you have open skin or a compromised immune system, you’re more vulnerable to infections,” says Dr. Jennifer Chen, another dermatologist.
Does Your Dog’s Kissing Style Matter?
Not all kisses are created equal. Dr. Dubin points out that a quick lick here and there is unlikely to cause harm in healthy adults with intact skin. However, a dog’s relentless licking could lead to irritant contact dermatitis, a condition caused by constant wet-dry cycles that damage the skin barrier. Repeated exposure to saliva can leave skin irritated, dry, and cracked, particularly in sensitive areas like the face.
Dr. Chen adds that for some people, saliva itself can be a skin irritant. If your dog frequently licks your face or hands, it could trigger reactions like dryness or itchiness, especially for those with skin conditions like acne or eczema. “Constant licking can also transfer other irritants to your skin, such as pollen or poison ivy if your dog has been exploring outdoors,” she warns.
Who Should Avoid Dog Kisses?
While most healthy individuals can tolerate a kiss or two from their pet, certain groups should exercise more caution. People with existing skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea, or eczema, may find that dog saliva exacerbates their symptoms or triggers flare-ups. People with compromised immune systems, due to conditions like cancer treatments or autoimmune disorders, should also be extra careful.
If you have cuts, rashes, or pimples, it’s best to keep your dog’s kisses at bay. Dr. Chen recommends avoiding close contact if your skin is already irritated, as saliva could introduce bacteria and lead to infections.
The Hidden Danger: Skin Care Ingredients
Even if you’re okay with the occasional dog kiss, be mindful of what’s on your skin. Certain skin care ingredients can be harmful to pets if ingested. “Avoid letting your dog lick areas where you’ve applied topical medications or skin care products,” says Dr. LeCuyer. Ingredients like xylitol (found in some moisturizers) and zinc oxide (found in sunscreens) can be toxic to dogs if they lick them off your skin. Topical pain relievers like diclofenac and lidocaine are also hazardous to pets, and ingestion could lead to severe reactions.
Conclusion: Proceed With Caution
Letting your dog lick your face occasionally is unlikely to cause harm in most healthy adults. However, constant licking or licking areas with broken skin can lead to irritation or infection. The real risks arise for individuals with weakened immune systems, skin conditions, or open wounds. As with most things, moderation is key, and being mindful of what your dog might have picked up during their outdoor adventures can help mitigate the risks.
Ultimately, while dogs’ mouths aren’t exactly “cleaner” than ours, with good hygiene and a bit of caution, you can safely enjoy the love and affection of your furry companion without too much worry. Just be mindful of your skin and the ingredients in your skin care products that could be harmful to your pet!
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