Dog Mouth Bacteria: What Every Owner Needs to Know

Every dog owner understands that a dog's mouth is home to a rich community of bacteria, a natural part of their oral ecosystem. This oral microbiome contains over 600 different bacterial species, some essential for digestion and health, while others can pose risks if hygiene is neglected.

Dogs explore their world largely through their mouths, using them to carry, chew, and gain sensory information. This means their mouths contain bacteria from the environment, their own bodies, and their diet.

The Natural Flora Within Your Dog's Mouth

The dog's mouth provides a moist, warm environment rich in nutrients, ideal for bacteria to thrive. Healthy oral flora includes species like Pasteurella, Enterobacter cloacae, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Citrobacter freundii. These bacteria generally support oral health and begin the digestive process.

However, if the balance is disturbed, harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus can cause infections, especially if introduced into wounds by licking. Responsible pet owners should carefully manage any dog wounds and avoid exposing open cuts to dog saliva.

Dental Bacteria and Oral Health

Dental plaque, common in most adult dogs, harbours bacteria such as Campylobacter rectus, Porphyromonas gulae, and Tannerella forsythia. These bacteria contribute to periodontal disease, which affects over 80% of dogs and can lead to tooth loss and pain.

Dogs may also carry some human-specific bacteria like Treponema denticola and Eikenella corrodens, making close mouth-to-mouth contact with pets inadvisable for health reasons.

Health Risks from Dog Bacteria

Bacteria in a dog's mouth can sometimes cause infections in humans, especially through bites or saliva entering broken skin. For example, Capnocytophaga canimorsus can, in rare cases, cause severe blood infections in people.

In any dog bite incident, immediate and thorough wound cleaning is critical. Allow the wound to bleed gently if not heavily bleeding, then sanitise and dress it promptly to reduce infection risks.

Guidelines to Keep Safe Around Dogs

• Never allow dogs to lick your face, especially near your mouth or open wounds.
• Teach children from a young age to respect this rule.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling your dog, especially before eating or touching your face.
• Maintain regular dental care for your dog, including veterinary dental checks and home teeth cleaning to help control harmful bacteria.

By understanding the bacterial ecosystem in your dog's mouth and practising good hygiene, you protect both your dog's health and your own, fostering a safe and loving relationship.

For those interested in responsible dog ownership and finding a healthy companion, it's always best to seek puppies from reputable breeders who prioritise health and wellbeing.