Sharing a room with your dog long-term can pose certain health risks to humans. It may increase the likelihood of contracting zoonotic diseases or parasitic infections. Additionally, dog hair can easily enter human airways, potentially triggering conditions like rhinitis or asthma. However, if pet owners ensure regular deworming and vaccinations for their dogs, along with maintaining a clean living environment, sharing a room with a dog can be generally safe.
Potential Risks of Sharing a Room with Your Dog
1. Allergies
It’s normal for dogs to shed, and despite diligent care, some hair will inevitably end up in the bedding. Those who prefer to sleep in the same bed as their dog, or even close to them, risk inhaling dog hair, which can cause respiratory infections, rhinitis, or asthma.
2. Parasites
Dogs are naturally playful, and despite bathing, they can still pick up dirt while exploring outdoors. This means that it’s difficult to completely eliminate all bacteria on a dog. Many dogs also carry parasites. If regular deworming is not carried out, sharing a room with a dog can increase the risk of parasitic infections.
3. Increased Illness Rates
A dog's fur and skin may harbor viruses, bacteria, mites, and fleas, some of which are pathogens, and some of which act as disease vectors. Prolonged exposure to these pathogens through co-sleeping will naturally increase your risk of falling ill compared to people who don't share a room with their dog.