Dogs are wonderful companions for children. They teach responsibility, provide comfort, and become beloved family members. However, as a parent, you should know that dogs can sometimes carry diseases that may spread to children. These are called zoonotic diseases, meaning infections that jump from animals to humans.
This guide will help you understand what diseases dogs can transmit to children, how to recognize the signs, and most importantly, how to prevent them while still enjoying the special bond between kids and their furry friends.
Understanding Zoonotic Diseases: What Every Parent Should Know
Zoonotic diseases sound scary, but understanding them helps you protect your family without fear. These infections can spread through different ways such as bites, scratches, contact with dog waste, or simply touching an infected dog and then touching your mouth or food.
The good news is that most zoonotic diseases from dogs are preventable with simple hygiene practices and regular veterinary care. Children are more vulnerable than adults because their immune systems are still developing, and young children often put their hands in their mouths after playing with pets.
Common Diseases Dogs Can Transmit to Children
1. Rabies: The Most Serious Concern
What it is: Rabies is a viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system. It is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, making it the most feared disease transmitted by dogs.
How it spreads: The rabies virus lives in the saliva of infected animals. Children typically get rabies through dog bites, but it can also spread if infected saliva gets into open wounds, eyes, nose, or mouth.
Symptoms in children: Early symptoms may look like the flu with fever, headache, and tiredness. As the disease progresses, children may experience confusion, agitation, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, and fear of water. These symptoms typically appear weeks to months after exposure.
Geographic concern: Rabies remains a significant public health problem in many parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. According to the World Health Organization, tens of thousands of people die from rabies annually worldwide, with children being the most affected group. In countries with strong vaccination programs for pets, rabies in domestic dogs is rare.
Prevention:
- Vaccinate your dog against rabies as recommended by your veterinarian
- Teach children never to approach stray or unknown dogs
- Supervise interactions between children and dogs, even family pets
- If bitten by any dog, wash the wound immediately with soap and water for at least 15 minutes
- Seek medical attention immediately after any dog bite, even if the wound seems minor
Important: Any dog bite requires immediate medical attention. Post-exposure rabies vaccination is highly effective when given promptly but becomes ineffective once symptoms appear. Never wait to see if symptoms develop.
2. Ringworm: Not Actually a Worm
What it is: Despite its name, ringworm is not a worm at all. It is a fungal infection that affects the skin, causing circular, red, itchy patches. The medical term is dermatophytosis.
How it spreads: Children can catch ringworm by touching an infected dog or by touching surfaces where fungal spores have settled, such as bedding, brushes, or furniture.
Symptoms in children: Look for round, red patches on the skin with clearer centers, creating a ring appearance. The affected area may be scaly, itchy, and slightly raised. In some cases, the patches may be on the scalp, causing temporary hair loss in that area.
Symptoms in dogs: Dogs with ringworm may have circular patches of hair loss, scaly skin, or inflamed areas. However, some dogs carry the fungus without showing any symptoms, making it harder to detect.
Prevention:
- Keep your dog clean and groomed regularly
- Take your dog to the veterinarian if you notice any skin problems or hair loss
- Teach children to wash hands after playing with pets
- Clean and disinfect pet bedding, toys, and grooming tools regularly
- Vacuum frequently to remove fungal spores from carpets and furniture
Treatment: Ringworm in children is treatable with antifungal creams or, in more severe cases, oral medication prescribed by a doctor. The infection typically clears up within a few weeks with proper treatment.
3. Roundworms: Internal Parasites That Can Migrate
What it is: Roundworms are intestinal parasites that live in a dog's digestive system. The species that most commonly affects children is Toxocara canis. These worms can cause a condition called toxocariasis in humans.
How it spreads: Dogs infected with roundworms pass microscopic eggs in their feces. These eggs can survive in soil for months or even years. Children become infected by accidentally swallowing these eggs after playing in contaminated soil, sandboxes, or playgrounds, and then putting their hands in their mouths.
Symptoms in children: Many children with toxocariasis have no symptoms or only mild ones. However, in some cases, the larvae can migrate through the body causing different problems:
- Visceral larva migrans: fever, cough, wheezing, enlarged liver, and stomach pain
- Ocular larva migrans: vision problems, eye inflammation, or in rare cases, permanent vision loss if larvae reach the eye
- Fatigue, poor appetite, and irritability in some children
Why puppies are higher risk: Puppies are more likely to have roundworms than adult dogs because they can be born with the infection or get it through their mother's milk. This is why deworming puppies is so important.
Prevention:
- Deworm puppies and dogs as recommended by your veterinarian
- Pick up dog waste from your yard immediately and dispose of it properly
- Cover sandboxes when not in use to prevent dogs from using them as toilets
- Teach children to wash hands thoroughly after playing outside or touching dogs
- Avoid allowing dogs in areas where children play, especially sandboxes and playgrounds
- Have your veterinarian check stool samples regularly
4. Hookworms: Parasites That Can Enter Through Skin
What it is: Hookworms are another type of intestinal parasite found in dogs. Unlike roundworms, hookworm larvae can actually penetrate human skin, not just be swallowed.
How it spreads: Dogs infected with hookworms pass larvae in their feces. When children walk barefoot on contaminated soil or sand, the larvae can burrow through the skin of their feet. Children can also become infected by accidentally swallowing the larvae.
Symptoms in children:
- Cutaneous larva migrans: red, itchy, winding tracks on the skin where larvae have migrated, usually on feet, legs, or buttocks
- Intense itching at the site of penetration
- If larvae are swallowed: abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and in severe cases, anemia
Prevention:
- Deworm your dog regularly as advised by your veterinarian
- Clean up dog feces from your yard daily
- Have children wear shoes when playing in areas where dogs may have been
- Avoid letting children play in areas heavily contaminated with dog waste
- Keep dogs off beaches and playgrounds where children play barefoot
5. Campylobacteriosis: A Bacterial Diarrheal Disease
What it is: Campylobacteriosis is an infection caused by Campylobacter bacteria. It is one of the most common causes of diarrheal illness worldwide.
How it spreads: Children can get this infection from contact with dog feces or by touching a dog that has diarrhea. Puppies are more likely to carry these bacteria than adult dogs. The bacteria spread through the fecal-oral route, meaning from contaminated hands to mouth.
Symptoms in children:
- Diarrhea, sometimes with blood
- Stomach cramps and pain
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Symptoms typically appear 2 to 5 days after exposure and last about a week
Prevention:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching dogs, especially puppies
- Always wash hands before eating or preparing food
- Clean up dog waste immediately and dispose of it properly
- Keep children away from areas where dogs defecate
- If your dog has diarrhea, take it to the veterinarian and practice extra hygiene precautions
6. Salmonellosis: Not Just From Food
What it is: Salmonella is a bacteria commonly known for food poisoning, but dogs can also carry and transmit it to children.
How it spreads: Dogs can become infected with Salmonella from eating contaminated food, especially raw meat or eggs. Dogs may not show symptoms but can still pass the bacteria in their feces. Children become infected through contact with contaminated dog waste or by touching the dog and then putting their hands in their mouths.
Symptoms in children:
- Diarrhea, which may be bloody
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Symptoms usually appear 6 to 72 hours after infection
Prevention:
- Feed your dog commercially prepared dog food rather than raw meat
- Wash hands after handling dog food or treats
- Clean and disinfect dog food bowls regularly
- Practice good hand hygiene after touching dogs
- Keep dog feeding areas separate from food preparation areas
7. Giardiasis: A Parasitic Intestinal Infection
What it is: Giardiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite called Giardia that lives in the intestines. Both dogs and humans can become infected.
How it spreads: The parasite spreads through contact with infected feces. Children can become infected by touching contaminated surfaces, soil, or water, and then putting their hands in their mouths. Dogs that drink from contaminated water sources can become infected and pass it to children.
Symptoms in children:
- Watery, foul-smelling diarrhea
- Stomach cramps and bloating
- Gas and nausea
- Weight loss in prolonged infections
- Symptoms may come and go
Prevention:
- Provide clean, fresh water for your dog
- Prevent your dog from drinking from puddles, ponds, or streams
- Clean up dog waste promptly
- Practice thorough hand washing after contact with dogs
- If your dog has diarrhea, consult your veterinarian for testing and treatment
8. Leptospirosis: A Bacterial Disease From Urine
What it is: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria. It can affect many animals, including dogs, and can be serious in both dogs and humans.
How it spreads: The bacteria live in the kidneys of infected animals and are shed in urine. Dogs can pick up the bacteria from contaminated water, soil, or by coming into contact with urine from infected animals. Children can become infected through contact with contaminated water or soil, especially if they have cuts or scrapes on their skin.
Symptoms in children:
- High fever and chills
- Headache and muscle aches
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Red eyes
- In severe cases: jaundice, kidney failure, or meningitis
Risk factors: This disease is more common in warm, humid climates and areas with flooding. Dogs that swim in or drink from natural water sources are at higher risk.
Prevention:
- Vaccinate your dog against leptospirosis if recommended by your veterinarian
- Avoid letting dogs drink from or swim in potentially contaminated water
- Wear gloves when cleaning up dog urine
- Keep children away from areas where dogs urinate
- Seek veterinary care if your dog shows signs of illness
9. Capnocytophaga Infection: Bacteria in Dog Mouths
What it is: Capnocytophaga is a type of bacteria commonly found in the mouths of dogs and cats. While it rarely causes problems, it can lead to serious infections in some people, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
How it spreads: The bacteria can spread through dog bites or scratches, or even when dogs lick open wounds or areas near the mouth, eyes, or nose.
Symptoms in children:
- Redness, swelling, and pain around a bite or scratch wound
- Fever
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- In severe cases: infection can spread to the bloodstream causing sepsis
Who is at higher risk: Children with weakened immune systems, those without spleens, or children with certain medical conditions are at greater risk for serious infection.
Prevention:
- Avoid letting dogs lick your child's face, especially near the mouth, nose, or eyes
- Clean any dog bites or scratches immediately with soap and water
- Seek medical attention for all dog bites, especially deep puncture wounds
- Keep dogs away from children with compromised immune systems
10. Mange and Scabies: Skin Mites That Can Jump Species
What it is: Mange is a skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin. Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, can spread from dogs to humans.
How it spreads: Direct contact with an infected dog allows the mites to transfer to human skin. The mites burrow into the skin, causing intense itching.
Symptoms in children:
- Intense itching, especially at night
- Red, bumpy rash
- Small blisters or pimples
- Common areas affected: wrists, elbows, armpits, areas contacted by infected dog
Good news: The mites that cause dog mange cannot complete their life cycle on humans, so the infection is self-limiting and usually resolves within a few weeks without treatment. However, the itching can be severe during this time.
Prevention:
- Watch for signs of mange in your dog: hair loss, severe itching, red skin, crusty patches
- Take your dog to the veterinarian immediately if you suspect mange
- Avoid close contact with the infected dog until treatment is complete
- Wash bedding, clothes, and any items that contacted the infected dog
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek immediate medical attention if your child:
- Has been bitten by any dog, especially if the bite breaks the skin
- Has been scratched deeply by a dog
- Develops fever after contact with a sick dog
- Has persistent diarrhea or vomiting
- Shows signs of dehydration: dry mouth, decreased urination, lethargy
- Develops unusual skin rashes or lesions after dog contact
- Complains of severe abdominal pain
- Has vision changes or eye pain after being around dogs
- Shows signs of infection around a wound: increased redness, warmth, swelling, pus
For less urgent concerns like mild itching from possible ringworm or questions about potential exposure, contact your pediatrician during regular office hours. They can evaluate the situation and recommend appropriate testing or treatment.
Prevention: Keeping Children Safe Around Dogs
Most diseases transmitted from dogs to children are preventable with simple, consistent practices. Here is a comprehensive prevention strategy for families with dogs or children who regularly interact with dogs.
For Your Family Dog
Essential veterinary care:
- Keep vaccinations up to date, including rabies, distemper, and others recommended by your veterinarian
- Follow your veterinarian's deworming schedule for puppies and adult dogs
- Have annual wellness exams to catch health problems early
- Request fecal examinations to check for parasites at least once yearly
- Use year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention as prescribed
- Address any health concerns promptly, especially diarrhea or skin problems
Hygiene Practices at Home
- Teach children to wash hands with soap and water immediately after touching dogs, especially before eating
- Clean up dog waste from your yard daily
- Wash dog bedding, toys, and food bowls regularly
- Bathe and groom your dog regularly
- Keep your dog's living area clean and sanitary
- Do not allow dogs on kitchen counters or dining tables
- Discourage dogs from licking children's faces, especially around the mouth, nose, and eyes
- Keep children's play areas separate from areas where dogs eliminate
- Wash any clothing or items that come into contact with dog waste immediately
Teaching Children Safe Dog Interactions
Education is one of the most powerful tools for prevention. Teach your children these important rules:
- Always ask permission before petting someone else's dog
- Never approach stray or unknown dogs
- Do not disturb dogs while they are eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies
- Avoid rough play that could lead to accidental bites or scratches
- Never put their face close to a dog's face
- Do not pull a dog's tail, ears, or fur
- Back away slowly if a dog seems aggressive and tell an adult immediately
- Wash hands after playing with any dog, even family pets
- Do not share food with dogs or eat food a dog has licked
- Tell parents immediately if bitten or scratched by any dog
Special Considerations for Young Children
Children under five years old are at highest risk for dog-transmitted diseases because they spend more time on the floor where contamination may occur, they frequently put their hands and objects in their mouths, and their immune systems are still developing.
For families with young children:
- Always supervise interactions between young children and dogs
- Create a barrier between crawling babies and areas where dogs spend time
- Clean floors and surfaces regularly where both children and dogs have contact
- Consider keeping dogs out of rooms where babies and toddlers play
- Cover sandboxes when not in use
- Teach the importance of hand washing as early as possible
Extra Precautions for High-Risk Children
Some children face higher risks from dog-transmitted diseases. These include children with:
- Weakened immune systems from illness or medication
- No spleen or reduced spleen function
- Chronic illnesses like diabetes or kidney disease
- Skin conditions with open wounds
If your child falls into any of these categories, discuss additional precautions with both your pediatrician and veterinarian. In some cases, they may recommend:
- More frequent veterinary checkups for the family dog
- Additional vaccinations for the dog
- Stricter hygiene protocols
- Limitations on types of dog contact
- Avoiding certain dog-related activities
Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family
If you are considering getting a dog, certain factors can influence disease transmission risk:
Puppies versus adult dogs: Puppies are more likely to carry parasites and certain bacteria, and they also tend to mouth and bite more during play, increasing the risk of scratches and bites. However, puppies can be trained from an early age to interact gently with children.
Source matters: Dogs from reputable breeders or rescue organizations typically receive better veterinary care and health screening compared to dogs from unknown sources. Ask about vaccination history, deworming, and any known health issues.
Dog temperament: Regardless of breed, look for dogs with calm, patient temperaments around children. Observe how the dog reacts to noise, sudden movements, and being touched. Dogs that are easily startled or reactive may not be suitable for families with young children.
Health history: Before bringing a dog home, have a veterinarian perform a thorough health examination. This should include checking for parasites, skin conditions, and any signs of illness.
What About Dogs Outside Your Home?
Your child will encounter dogs in many settings: at friends' houses, in parks, at petting zoos, or during service activities. Extend the same precautions to these situations:
- Teach children to always ask permission before touching someone else's dog
- Encourage hand washing after any contact with unfamiliar dogs
- Avoid contact with stray dogs or dogs that appear sick
- If visiting a home with dogs, ask about the dog's vaccination status if your child has health concerns
- In public spaces, supervise children closely around dogs
- Teach children to recognize warning signs that a dog wants to be left alone: growling, showing teeth, raised hackles, stiff posture, backing away
The Benefits Still Outweigh the Risks
After reading about all these potential diseases, you might feel worried about having a dog around children. However, it is important to remember that millions of families safely enjoy the companionship of dogs every day.
The benefits of children growing up with dogs are well documented:
- Reduced risk of developing allergies and asthma when exposed to dogs early in life
- Improved emotional development and empathy
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Increased physical activity
- Learning responsibility and compassion
- Companionship and unconditional love
With proper precautions, regular veterinary care, and good hygiene practices, the risk of disease transmission from dogs to children is quite low. The key is being informed and proactive rather than fearful.
Common Questions Parents Ask
Should I get rid of my dog if I have a baby?
In most cases, no. Dogs can coexist safely with babies and children when proper precautions are followed. Focus on maintaining good hygiene, keeping up with veterinary care, and supervising all interactions. Many families successfully raise children and dogs together. However, if a dog shows aggressive behavior toward children or if a child has severe health issues, consult with your pediatrician and a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
Is it safe to let my dog lick my child?
While dog licks are often a sign of affection, dogs' mouths contain bacteria that can potentially make children sick, especially if the dog licks near the mouth, nose, or eyes, or on open wounds. It is best to discourage face licking and teach children to wash their hands if licked by a dog. Some gentle licking of hands or arms is generally fine for healthy children, but always practice hand washing afterward.
How do I know if my dog is sick?
Watch for these signs that your dog may be ill and could potentially transmit disease:
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite or lethargy
- Skin problems: rashes, hair loss, excessive scratching
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
- Changes in behavior or temperament
- Eye or nasal discharge
- Fever
If you notice any of these signs, separate the dog from children as much as possible, practice extra hygiene precautions, and contact your veterinarian promptly.
Can my child get sick from a dog at the park?
Brief interactions with well-cared-for dogs at parks carry low risk, especially if your child practices good hand hygiene. The main concerns are dog bites from unfamiliar dogs and contact with contaminated soil where dogs have eliminated. Teach children to ask before petting dogs, wash hands after play, and avoid areas with visible dog waste.
Are certain dog breeds more likely to carry diseases?
Disease transmission is not significantly related to dog breed. Any dog, regardless of breed, can carry parasites, bacteria, or viruses. What matters more is the individual dog's health, vaccination status, parasite prevention, and overall care. A well-cared-for dog of any breed poses minimal disease risk to children.
Creating a Disease Prevention Plan for Your Family
Develop a simple, consistent routine that everyone in your family follows:
Daily tasks:
- Hand washing after dog contact, especially before meals
- Cleaning up dog waste from the yard
- Supervising young children around dogs
- Providing fresh, clean water for your dog
Weekly tasks:
- Washing dog bedding and toys
- Cleaning food and water bowls thoroughly
- Grooming and checking your dog for any health concerns
Monthly tasks:
- Administering flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Checking your dog thoroughly for any changes in skin, coat, or behavior
- Reviewing and reinforcing safety rules with children
Annual tasks:
- Veterinary wellness examination
- Updating vaccinations as recommended
- Fecal examination for parasites
- Discussing any concerns with your veterinarian
Resources for Learning More
If you want to learn more about zoonotic diseases and pet safety, consider these reputable sources:
Books:
- Handbook of Zoonoses: Identification and Prevention by various authors
- The Merck Veterinary Manual for information on dog health
- Your Dog: The Owner's Manual by various veterinary authors
Websites:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Information on zoonotic diseases and prevention
- World Health Organization: Global perspectives on rabies and other diseases
- American Veterinary Medical Association: Pet health and safety information
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Child safety around pets
- Your local public health department: Regional information about pet-related diseases
Final Thoughts
The relationship between children and dogs can be one of the most rewarding experiences of childhood. Dogs teach children about compassion, responsibility, and unconditional love. They provide comfort during difficult times and joy during everyday moments.
Understanding the diseases that dogs can transmit to children is not meant to create fear but to empower you with knowledge. When you know what to watch for and how to prevent problems, you can confidently allow your children to enjoy the benefits of growing up with dogs.
The vast majority of children who grow up with dogs never experience any serious health problems related to their pets. By following the prevention strategies outlined in this guide, maintaining good communication with your veterinarian and pediatrician, and teaching your children proper hygiene and safety practices, you can minimize already-low risks even further.
Remember that both your child's health and your dog's health are priorities. A healthy dog is less likely to transmit disease, and a well-educated child is better equipped to interact safely with all animals. Regular veterinary care, consistent hygiene practices, and ongoing education form the foundation of a safe and happy home for both children and dogs.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or healthcare provider for any health concerns regarding your child, especially after potential exposure to animal-related diseases or if your child develops any symptoms mentioned in this article. Similarly, consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your dog's health.
This article has been reviewed and checked by a qualified pediatrician to ensure medical accuracy and appropriate health guidance for families.
Labels: Animals-Birds