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Can diseases jump from dogs to humans?

Yes, but it’s not likely. “Most dog viruses are species specific,” says Dr Frederic Chua, Principal Veterinarian of All pets and Aqualife Vet Clinic. “so most dog viruses cannot survive in humans.” Bacteria are another story. Campylobacter can infect both pet and owner and cause diarrhoea. “It can be found in dog faeces,” says Frederic. “Dogs might get it on their fur and transmit it to you by touch, so don’t stick your hands into your mouth, rub your eyes or touch open wounds after handling dogs, and wash your hands to get rid of the bacteria.” Dogs may also carry leptospirosis, which is transmitted through a dog’s urine, water or soil that’s contaminated with urine, he says. Make sure your pooch is vaccinated.

Still, dogs are one of the healthiest pets you can have. They’ll boost your immune system through daily exposure to the germs they pick up (their fur is a magnet), which will make your body less sensitive over time, according to a new study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. “Cats, hamsters, and reptiles are all more likely to cause illnesses,” says Dr Todd Barton, an assistant professor of infectious diseases at the University of Pennsylvania.