Pets and germs: Swapping bacteria

Posted at: 10/10/2012 6:51 AM

Those sloppy wet kisses from your dog could be harming you both.

A study in Japan found that dog owners and their pets swap oral bacteria, causing gum disease and tooth decay.

Researchers analyzed dental plaque in more than 50 dogs and their owners and found human bacteria in the mouths of dogs.  

Bacteria was most prevalent in older dogs and those sharing high contact relationships with their owners.

Canine bacteria was also detected in the mouths of humans.

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