Can Dogs Get Sick from Humans? Here’s What You Need to Know

3 min read

As loving dog owners, we do everything we can to protect our pets from illness—keeping up with vaccines, providing healthy food, and making sure they get regular checkups. But have you ever wondered if you could actually be the one to make your dog sick?

The short answer is yes—while it’s not extremely common, certain illnesses can pass from humans to dogs. This type of transmission is called reverse zoonosis (or anthroponosis), and knowing the risks can help you protect your four-legged friend.

In this post, we’ll explain which illnesses humans can give to dogs, how transmission happens, and what you can do to prevent it.

Why Dogs Can Catch Illnesses from Humans

Dogs share much of our environment—and even some aspects of our biology. Certain viruses, bacteria, and fungi can cross the species barrier, especially when there’s close contact (think cuddles, kisses, or sleeping in the same bed).

While many human illnesses don’t affect dogs, a handful can cause real health problems for them.

Illnesses Humans Can Pass to Dogs

Here are a few examples of diseases that can spread from humans to dogs:

• Flu (Influenza): While rare, certain strains—especially H1N1—have been documented to infect dogs.

• MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus): This antibiotic-resistant bacteria can spread through skin contact.

• Mumps: Extremely rare, but dogs can contract the virus from infected humans.

• Ringworm (a fungal infection): Easily spread through skin-to-skin contact or shared surfaces.

• Certain Intestinal Parasites: Giardia and some worms can be transmitted via contaminated hands or surfaces.

💡 Most human colds are species-specific—so your sniffles probably won’t affect your pup. Still, it’s best to avoid close contact when you’re under the weather.

How Illnesses Spread from Humans to Dogs

Reverse zoonosis usually happens through:

1. Direct Contact: Petting, snuggling, or kissing your dog when you’re contagious.

2. Droplets: Coughing or sneezing near your dog.

3. Contaminated Surfaces: Shared bedding, towels, or even food bowls.

4. Poor Hygiene: Not washing hands after coughing, sneezing, or using the bathroom.

How to Protect Your Dog When You’re Sick

If you’re feeling under the weather, here are simple steps to keep your dog safe:

1. Limit Close Contact – Avoid face kisses and sharing the bed until you’re better.

2. Wash Hands Often – Especially before handling food, water, or toys.

3. Cover Coughs & Sneezes – Keep germs from landing on your dog’s belongings.

4. Clean Shared Spaces – Regularly wash bedding, blankets, and toys.

5. Monitor for Symptoms – Watch for coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior.

📣 If your dog starts showing symptoms after you’ve been sick, contact your veterinarian right away.

Important Considerations

• Immune-Compromised Dogs: Senior dogs, puppies, and dogs with chronic illnesses are more vulnerable.

• Different Strains: Even if you and your dog can both get the flu, the strains may differ—meaning you could both get sick from separate sources.

• Veterinary Advice First: Never give your dog human medication unless specifically prescribed by a vet.

The Bottom Line

While most human illnesses won’t affect dogs, a few can—and they can be serious. Practicing good hygiene, limiting close contact when you’re sick, and keeping your dog’s immune system strong are your best defenses.

💚 Healthy pets start with informed owners—just one more way we can keep tails wagging for years to come.