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 and emotional well-being and acts as a good source 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 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 carry parasites like roundworms or hookworms in their saliva, which, if ingested, can lead to severe digestive problems in humans.
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 or mouth, 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.
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 specific proteins found in a dog’s saliva, which could lead to an allergic reaction when licked.
Symptoms can range from mild skin irritation to more severe 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 human parents and their dogs to reduce the risk of getting sick from puppy kisses.
Ensure your furry friend is up-to-date on all vaccinations and has regular check-ups with the vet. This will protect them from contracting illnesses and prevent any potential transmission to you through their saliva.
Regularly brush your dog’s teeth and give them dental chews to keep their mouths 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.
Practicing good personal hygiene when interacting with your dog is also essential.
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 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 significantly mitigate the 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 bacteria is rarely absorbed through the skin. 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. However, 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.
Interact without puppy kisses
Interacting with dogs offers numerous benefits beyond their adorable puppy kisses.
Here are some key advantages:
Emotional support
Spending time with dogs can significantly boost our mood and overall emotional health. Their unconditional love and companionship provide comfort and reduce loneliness and anxiety.
Stress reduction
Engaging with dogs has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Petting a dog can create a calming effect that helps us unwind after a long day.
Physical activity
Dogs require regular exercise, naturally encouraging their owners to be more active. Whether taking them for walks, playing fetch, or participating in agility training, interaction improves the dog’s and the owner’s physical fitness.
Social interaction
Dogs are fantastic icebreakers and can help facilitate social interactions. Walking a dog can lead to conversations with neighbors or other dog owners, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Teaching responsibility
Caring for a dog teaches essential lessons in responsibility and empathy, particularly for children. Feeding, grooming, and training a dog instills an invaluable sense of commitment and nurturing.
Routine and structure
Having a dog often establishes a daily routine, helping owners maintain structure. Dogs thrive on regular schedules for feeding, exercise, and playtime, which can positively influence their owner’s habits.
Therapeutic benefits
Interactions with dogs are utilized in various therapeutic settings, including hospitals and nursing homes, to enhance emotional well-being.
Therapy dogs provide comfort and support to individuals undergoing difficult times.
Boosting immunity
Research has suggested that children who grow up with dogs may have a lower risk of developing allergies and asthma, as early exposure to pet dander contributes to a stronger immune system.
Mindfulness and present-moment awareness
Dogs are experts at living in the moment. Spending time with them encourages us to appreciate the present, helping to alleviate worries about the past or future.
Final thoughts on puppy kisses
While puppy kisses may seem harmless and even cute, it’s essential to consider the potential risks involved.
Many factors must be considered when deciding whether or not to let your dog lick your face, from bacteria and parasites to possible allergic reactions.
Ultimately, it is a personal decision that should be made after considering all safety and hygiene aspects.
Remember always to prioritize your pets and your health when interacting.
– By Amber Kingsley