Do dogs have cleaner mouths than people? - briefly
The belief that dogs have cleaner mouths than humans is a myth. Both species harbor bacteria in their mouths, with dogs potentially carrying more due to their scavenging nature and oral hygiene habits.
Do dogs have cleaner mouths than people? - in detail
The notion that dogs have cleaner mouths than humans is a persistent myth, often used to justify canine kisses or sharing food with our furry friends. However, a closer examination of the science behind this belief reveals that it is largely unfounded.
Dogs explore their environment with their mouths, which exposes them to a wide variety of bacteria. Their saliva contains various microorganisms, including those found in human mouths and some that are unique to dogs. While canine saliva does have some antibacterial properties due to compounds like lysozyme, it is not sufficient to keep their mouths cleaner than humans'.
Humans also produce lysozyme in their saliva, but we benefit from better oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. These habits significantly reduce the amount of bacteria present in our mouths. Dogs, on the other hand, do not receive regular dental care to the same extent, which can lead to a higher concentration of bacteria in their saliva.
Furthermore, dogs' eating habits contribute to the bacterial content in their mouths. They often consume raw meat, bones, and even feces, all of which can introduce harmful microorganisms into their systems. Human diets are typically more controlled and regulated, which helps maintain a cleaner oral environment.
In conclusion, while dogs' saliva has some antibacterial properties, the overall bacterial load in their mouths is generally higher than that found in humans due to their lifestyle and lack of regular dental care. Therefore, it is inaccurate to say that dogs have cleaner mouths than people.