Common Diseases Dogs Can Pass to Humans

1 Zoonotic Diseases Shared With Dogs

I. Fungal skin disease

Human skin resists most dog fungi, but the fungus causing dog ringworm does not. An infected dog can pass it to you, showing as red patches with flakes and itch. Cat ringworm also spreads to people. Watch the dog’s skin; treat ringworm promptly and check yourself.

II. Bacterial infection

1. Salmonella: lives in contaminated, undercooked food; a dog that eats it can infect you when it licks your hands or mouth, letting the bacteria enter. It causes cramps, diarrhea, and bloody stools.

2. Helicobacter: lives in the dog’s gut and can remain on its bowls; contact lets you carry it, then it enters through the mouth. Symptoms include upper-belly fullness or pain and reduced appetite, among others.

III. External parasites

If a dog has fleas, mites, or ticks, close contact can let them bite you. Flea bites leave itchy bumps; mite bites itch. Worst are ticks, which spread Lyme disease—harming skin, joints, and nerves. Ticks cling tightly to the dog’s skin, so human bites are rarer, but still deworm inside and out to be safe.

Some internal parasites also pass from dog to human, which is why many pregnant women avoid dogs. Internal and external deworming is essential. If you have other related questions, you can also consult an online veterinarian.