15 Diseases Dogs Can Carry That Are Harmful to Humans

“Dog” by alonso_inostrosa is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Dogs sometimes carry diseases that might make us sick. These illnesses, called zoonotic diseases, aren’t always obvious, so staying informed is important to protect yourself and your furry friend. Let’s take a look at 15 diseases dogs can carry, how they can affect humans, and how you can stay safe.

Rabies

“Smiling Dog” by Adam Greig is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

This is one of the most serious diseases a pup can transmit to humans. It spreads through saliva, typically from a bite, and attacks the brain and nervous system. If untreated, it’s almost always fatal. Even though rabies vaccines are highly effective, any bite from a canine with an unknown vaccination history should be taken seriously.

Leptospirosis

“Dog Park_2009-03-03_IMG_5246.JPG” by Jim’s Photos1 is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

This bacterial infection is often spread through contact with water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals. Dogs that play in muddy areas, ponds, or stagnant water are more likely to pick it up. In humans, it can start with flu-like symptoms but may escalate to liver or kidney problems if untreated. Vaccinating your dog and avoiding high-risk environments are effective ways to reduce the risk for both of you.

Ringworm

“office dogs” by emdot is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

While it sounds alarming, ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin, not a parasite. Dogs with ringworm may have bald patches or scaly skin, and they can pass it to humans through direct contact. For us, it appears as a red, itchy rash in a circular shape. Treating ringworm early in dogs, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding unnecessary contact with infected areas can prevent it from spreading.

Salmonella

“Soppy Dog” by JaseCurtis is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Dogs can carry salmonella bacteria in their intestines and shed it through their feces, even if they seem perfectly healthy. Humans can get sick by handling contaminated waste or raw dog food. The symptoms could be diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, which can be severe for young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems. 

Campylobacteriosis

“Dog” by vhcmor is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Campylobacter is another bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated feces, especially from puppies in overcrowded or unsanitary conditions. It causes diarrhea, stomach pain, and fever in humans. Proper cleaning practices and quick disposal of dog waste can prevent this infection. For owners with multiple pets, keeping living areas clean and ensuring regular vet checkups are particularly important.

Giardia

“Ella the Snow Dog” by jpctalbot is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Giardia is a tiny parasite that lives in contaminated water or surfaces. Dogs can pick it up from puddles, streams, or unclean environments and pass it to humans through their waste. For humans, the infection causes diarrhea, stomach cramps, and dehydration. 

Toxocariasis (Roundworms)

“Dog stare” by tajai is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Roundworms are especially common in puppies and younger dogs. They can also be passed to humans if their eggs are accidentally ingested from contaminated soil or surfaces. In humans, roundworm larvae can migrate to organs like the liver, lungs, or eyes, causing serious complications, including blindness in severe cases. 

Hookworms

“Opera Dog???” by cindy47452 is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Hookworms are intestinal parasites that can also infect humans. Walking barefoot on soil contaminated with dog feces allows the larvae to penetrate the skin, leading to an itchy rash called “cutaneous larva migrans.” In severe cases, hookworms can migrate internally, causing anemia or abdominal pain. 

Echinococcosis (Hydatid Disease)

“Happy Dog!” by @orre is licensed under CC BY 2.0

This disease is caused by a specific type of tapeworm that can infect humans if eggs from dog feces are accidentally ingested. The larvae can form cysts in organs like the liver or lungs, which can grow over time and require surgical removal. 

Brucellosis

“A cute Dog 4” by Chen Vision is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that spreads through contact with an infected dog’s bodily fluids, such as urine or vaginal secretions. Although rare, it can cause flu-like symptoms in humans, including fever, joint pain, and fatigue. For breeders or those working closely with dogs, extra caution is needed. Spaying or neutering pets reduces the risk of transmission.

Lyme Disease

“Dogs” by flowcomm is licensed under CC BY 2.0

While dogs can’t directly pass Lyme disease to humans, they can bring infected ticks into the home. If bitten by a tick carrying the disease, humans can develop symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and a characteristic bullseye rash. Regularly checking your furry friend for ticks after outdoor activities and using preventative flea and tick treatments can help keep your household safe.

Bartonella (Cat Scratch Fever)

“Dog” by DrPizza is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Although more commonly associated with cats, dogs infested with fleas can also carry Bartonella bacteria. Humans can get infected through scratches, bites, or contact with flea droppings. The symptoms are swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue, though complications are rare. Keeping your dog flea-free through proper treatments and grooming is your best defense.

Capnocytophaga Canimorsus

“Dog in Italy” by Sabrina Setaro is licensed under CC BY 2.0

This rare but serious bacterial infection can be transmitted through dog bites, scratches, or even close contact, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. It can lead to fever, vomiting, and, in extreme cases, sepsis. Promptly cleaning wounds and seeking medical advice for any dog bite can prevent serious outcomes.

MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus)

“Dogs” by ChodHound is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

This is a type of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that dogs can carry on their skin or in their noses. While they may not get sick, they can pass it to humans through close contact. In humans, it can cause skin infections, pneumonia, or bloodstream infections. Frequent handwashing and minimizing contact with open wounds can lower the risk.

Scabies (Canine Mange)

“sleeping dog” by kerim is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Sarcoptic mange, caused by mites, is highly contagious between dogs and humans. If your dog has mange, you might notice intense itching and red patches on their skin. When transmitted to humans, it causes an itchy, bumpy rash that needs treatment. Treating the infection in your dog promptly can stop the mites from spreading further.

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