Walks are an important part of every dog owner’s life. It’s a relaxing and bonding adventure into the world that all dogs crave and that most pet owners enjoy. But every pet owner, at some point, wonders how much of the walk is entering their homes through their pet’s paws.
As we walk by our dogs’ side we can’t help noticing them doing their business, in bare paws, on all different types of surfaces that were likely already visited by other dogs. We may even notice some dogs scraping the surface around their poop, as we imagine their paws getting even dirtier.
Then, as soon as you remove their leash at home, they run off and jump right into your favorite side of the sofa, putting on their best “cute dog” face as they wait for you to start streaming your favorite series.
So, it’s only logical for you to ask yourself the question: What germs and pathogens are joining me and my dog as we Netflix and chill?
Germs in Dog Paws: Most are Harmless
When you think of it, there are numerous types of environments where you can take your dog out for a walk. You could be taking your dog to your neighborhood’s sidewalk, to your local forest reserve, on a hiking trail, or letting him loose on a farm during a weekend visit.
Each environment is home to its own biosphere of pathogens, fungi, bacteria, and critters. By far, most of these agents will not cause a real threat to either you or your dog. Dogs are covered in bacteria throughout their coats and mouths. Most of these bacteria are harmless and many will probably fall out of your dog’s paw by the time they come home.
They’re just part of the bacterial parallel universe that lives among us. Exposure to them is good and can help boost our immune system.
But it’s wise to take a closer look into these agents that are present in our dog’s life.
So, what’s in our dog’s paws?
Why do my dog’s feet smell like Fritos?
The bacteria called Proteus and Pseudomonas, are widely present in our environments. These bacteria produce a by-product that is responsible for that yeast-like, popcorn smell (sometimes called “Frito Feet”) you may notice on your dog’s paws. This is normal, and nothing to worry about.
However, the number of these bacteria can multiply out of control possibly producing an infection.
Unhealthy Paws
Here are some signs that may indicate your dog has unhealthy paws.
- Excessive licking
- Redness
- Limping
- Bumps
- Swelling
If you notice your dog has any of these conditions on their paws, contact your veterinarian.
Potentially Harmful Bacteria from Feces and Sitting Water
Most of the bacteria that your dog has on them will not make you sick. However, there are some that are potentially harmful. These bacteria come from the feces of other animals and are much more likely to be present in rural areas.
They’re called Pseudomonas Otitis and Aeromonas, the latter of which is commonly found in bodies of water such as lakes, creeks, and sitting water. These are dangerous and can make people ill.
Another scoundrel to be wary of is Giardia, a germ that is spread through traces of contaminated feces. This microscopic weasel can theoretically infect you and your dog. The good news is that it can be beaten simply by washing your hands before eating.
As for your dog, your veterinarian can get them covered by prescribing some preventive parasite and worm medication.
Fungi From the Earth
Some fungi that grow in the dirt can stick to your dog’s paw and coat. These are responsible for conditions like histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, and cryptococcosis.
You should be aware of them especially if your dog walks through humid forest reserves or parks with excessive humidity.
These fungi get inside our organisms when inhaled, and can come into our home if your dog brings in a lot of dirt from their walk. These are not dangerous and most people with a good immune system won’t get ill from them.
Critters: Fleas and Ticks
It could be usual for your dog to bring in some fleas and ticks. This is something that doesn’t sound pleasant and surely isn’t. These pests can feed on us humans and be a tremendous annoyance.
The good news is that there are effective ways to prevent these critters from hitching a ride into your home.
On one side, tick and flea prevention medication can be administered (always contact your veterinarian before getting your dog on meds). There are also anti-flea collars which are an excellent choice.
Tips on Keeping Your Dog From Bringing Home Unwelcome Intruders
If you’re concerned about what intruders your dog may be unknowingly welcoming into your home some simple tips will be useful, at least, to give yourself the feeling that you’ve got some measure of control on the situation.
Firstly, take a good look at the environment in which your dog is walking through. This will help you manage and be aware of the actual risks they may face.
Say your dog is venturing into a rural area where he may come in contact with the feces of other species of animals. In that case, keep an eye on them, making sure they stay clear of the aforementioned feces.
Or perhaps you’re walking your dog through your neighborhood. In this case, also take a look at their steps, making sure they stay clear of feces, especially if it’s diarrhea. It’s likely to have come from a sick dog and the menacing pathogen may be present there.
Paw Hygiene
A great measure to take is to keep in mind your dog’s “paw hygiene”. The cheapest and smartest way is by being aware of the weather. When the weather is hot and humid, pathogens can multiply so it could be wise to bathe your dog or clean their paws.
There are many sprays, paw wipes, and anti-bacterial soaps on the market that have great results.
Paw boots and paw wax will create a barrier that will protect your dog’s paws from pathogens and external weather-related conditions, such as irritation caused by stepping on the salt on the street during the winter time. The salt causes the skin on the paw to dry up, increasing the risk of it tearing and getting infected.
The Bottom Line
A world completely free of pathogens and bacteria does not exist. While your dog will likely bring in bacteria from the outside into your home environment, the health benefits of taking your dog for a walk far outweigh the minor threats some micro-sized bacteria may pose.
Doing some exercise, breathing fresh air, and getting some vitamin D from sunshine are only a few. Think of the mental health benefits of taking those 5 to 15 minutes or more out with your dog.
It’s a great way to meet new people, get inspired by nature, and try out different itineraries. And best of all, you get to do all of that with your best friend! So just sit back, cuddle up with your fluff and their microscopic bacteria, and enjoy life!
