Contagious Dog Skin Infections

A zoonotic disease or infection is any affliction that can be passed from one species to another. Several zoonotic dermatological infections pass from dogs to humans. Even a dog that does not look ill may harbor contagions for a disease.

Types

• The three main types of contagious skin infections contracted from dogs are parasitic, fungal and bacterial.

Transmission

• As Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians notes, the main route of transmission for zoonotic skin infections is through direct contact with either the dog or the dog's environment.

Common Fungal Infections

• Ringworm, most common fungal zoonotic infection, forms an itchy, scaly, ring-shaped spot on the skin. Other fungal infections are possible, but rare.

Parasitic Infections

• Sarcoptic mange is a skin disease in dogs caused by parasites. Also known as canine scabies, sarcoptic mange causes itching and large, blotchy rashes. Called a self-limiting disease, when transmitted to humans sarcoptic mange often disappears on its own. (reference 2)

Bacterial Infections

• Very few zoonotic bacterial skin infections exist, and the risk of contracting them is negligible.

Treatment

• If you suspect you have contracted a skin disease from your dog, seek medical advice from both your regular doctor and your veterinarian. Expect them to diagnose the cause and prescribe a course of treatment.