Are puppy kisses safe? Should you let your dog lick your face? (2024)

Dogs brighten our lives and fill them with love and sweet puppy kisses.

We give dogs affection in a million ways, and they return it.

A dog’s love is so powerful that it improves our health andemotional well-being andacts as a goodsource of therapy when things are bad.

Sometimes they show affection with snuggles on the couch or an offer to play with a favorite toy.

But their biggest displays of affection usually come from a wet, sloppy face lick — puppy kisses.

While puppy kisses are sweet, is that slobber safe for you and your dog?

Why do dogs lick?

Dogs lick us because they love us. Puppy kisses show affection.

Kisses or licks are a form of communication.

Dogs lick to communicate hunger, need to go outside, or to capture your attention.

Kisses also provide comfort because licking releases endorphins, making dogs feel relaxed and happy.

An anxious dog might be prone to licking behavior to self-soothe or compel his owner to provide reassurance and affection.

What’s in puppy kisses?

Dogs especially new puppies are known for exploring the world around them through their mouths, which means coming into contact with various bacteria and pathogens.

While most dogs have healthy immune systems that can fight these germs without causing harm, humans can be more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Dog kisses are full of affection, loyalty, and about 700 kinds of bacteria.

Some less human-friendly bacteria include Toxocara, Pasteurella campylobacter, E.coli, salmonella, and campylobacter.

These can cause gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea if transmitted through a kiss from your pup.

Additionally, dogs may also carry parasites like roundworms or hookworms in their saliva, which can lead to severe digestive problems in humans if ingested.

Another potential risk associated with puppy kisses is the transmission of zoonotic diseases.

These are diseases that can pass between animals and humans. For example, dogs can carry ringworm fungus on their skin orin theirmouth, which can cause skin infections in people who come into contact with it through kissing or licking.

That’s also nasty stuff that can upset gastrointestinal systems (among other things) and exacerbate pre-existing conditions like IBS, GERD, and Crohn’s disease.

Additionally, certain viruses like rabies or coronavirus can also be transmitted through saliva exchange between dogs and humans.

Although these cases are relatively rare due to vaccination protocols for pets, it’s still essential for dog owners to take precautions when allowing their furry friends to lick their faces.

Furthermore, some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to certain proteins found in a dog’s saliva that could lead to an allergic reaction upon being licked.

Symptoms can range from mild skin irritation tomoresevere reactions like difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.

While a dog’s mouth is full of stuff that helps them heal, it could also send you straight to a doctor’s office.

If your dog is unwell, the chances you will get sick increase.

Mitigate the risk

Maintain good hygiene practices for both human parents and their dogs to reduce the risk of getting sick from puppy kisses.

Make sure that your dog is up-to-date on all their vaccinations and regular check-ups with the vet. This will not only protect them from contracting any illnesses but also prevent any potential transmission to you through their saliva.

Regularly brush your dog’s teeth and provide them with dental chews to keep their mouth clean and reduce bacteria in their saliva.

Additionally, discourage behaviors such as licking garbage or feces, as these can introduce harmful bacteria into your dog’s mouth.

It is also essential to practice good personal hygiene when interacting with your dog.

Always wash your hands after playing or touching them, especially before eating or preparing food.

Avoid letting your dog lick areas near your mouth or eyes.

Pay attention to your own health when considering letting a dog lick your face.

If you have a weakened immune system or any open wounds on your face, it may be best to avoid allowing puppy kisses altogether.

In addition to maintaining proper hygiene practices, training can also play a significant role in mitigating risks associated with puppy kisses.

Teach your dog boundaries and discourage them from licking your face by redirecting their attention to a toy or treat.

Verdict?

While dogs can be good for the health of even the tiniest humans (for example, having a dog can help diminish respiratory illnesses in children).

It’s better to play it safe regarding puppy kisses.

You can let your dog kiss you. Just keep your dog’s tongue away from your mouth.

Licks on cheeks or hands are generally OK, as skin absorption of bacteria is rare. To be safe, make sure to wash up afterward!

Teach your dog to show affection in other ways if you’re sick or have a compromised immune system. For example, limit licks to anyone who has HIV/AIDS or is receiving chemo.

Older people and infants also should probably avoid puppy kisses.

Break the puppy kisses habit

Kisses show affection. But you can build a healthy relationship and reduce health risks by teaching your dog other communication methods.

To stop licking or end an unwanted kissing habit, show your dog that kissing is ineffective.

If your dog licks you, say no firmly and leave the room.

Stop if you’re doing something your dog likes, such as petting, and she starts licking.

Be consistent.

Once your dog learns to link your absence with licking or understands you won’t do something she enjoys if she licks, the kisses will stop.

Final thoughts on puppy kisses

While puppy kisses may seem harmless and even cute, it’s important to consider the potential risks involved.

From bacteria and parasites to possible allergic reactions, there are many factors to take into account when deciding whether or not to let your dog lick your face.

Ultimately, it is a personal decision that should be made after considering all aspects of safety and hygiene.

Remember to always prioritize your pet’s and your health when interacting.

– By Amber Kingsley

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