She Strengthens

The Rise of Pandemic Pets: Unraveling the Mystery of Slobbery Kisses

As the world grappled with the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, a surprising trend emerged: pet adoptions skyrocketed. Dubbed “pandemic puppies,” these furry friends brought comfort and companionship to families worldwide. But have you ever wondered why your pup loves to lavish you with sloppy kisses?

Evolutionary Roots of Slobbery Affection

It all starts with our canine companions’ wild ancestors. Wolf cubs would lick their pack leaders’ mouths to snag leftover food, a habit that’s been passed down through generations. Today, our dogs use their incredible sense of smell to detect the tantalizing aromas on our faces, whether it’s a freshly devoured meal or a post-workout glow.

Social Conditioning and Grooming

Young dogs learn to express affection by mimicking their mothers’ grooming techniques. As puppies, they’re licked clean by their mothers, and they adopt this behavior to show love and affection to their human families. While we might not always appreciate the slobber, it’s a genuine display of devotion from our furry friends.

The Safety of Slobbery Kisses

But are these kisses harmless or harmful to our skin? We consulted with top dermatologists to get the scoop. Dr. Julie Russak, MD, FAAD, assures us that dog saliva itself isn’t damaging, unless you have allergies or sensitivities. However, it’s essential to keep your dog clean and well-groomed to minimize the risk of transmission.

Other experts, like Dr. Hadley King, MD, point out that dog saliva contains antibacterial properties, making it an unlikely cause of infection. Yet, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, cautions that if you have sensitive skin or open wounds, it’s best to avoid direct contact with dog saliva.

The Risks of Zoonotic Diseases

Some experts warn about the potential risks of zoonotic diseases, which can spread from dogs to humans. Dr. Neilanjan Nandi of Drexel University College of Medicine highlights the oral microbiome of bacteria, viruses, and yeast present in dogs’ mouths. While rare, illnesses can occur from these microorganisms.

To Slob or Not to Slob?

Ultimately, there’s no clear answer on whether we should let our dogs lick our faces. While the risks are low, it’s crucial to maintain good hygiene practices, washing your face and hands regularly, especially after interacting with your pup’s mouth. If you do choose to indulge in slobbery kisses, consider throwing your pup a fresh breath dental doggy treat first!