If you or a family member has shingles, you might worry about passing it to your dog. Shingles is a painful viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. But can dogs catch shingles?
The short answer is no. Dogs cannot catch shingles from humans. The varicella-zoster virus is species-specific and only affects humans. However, dogs have their own herpesvirus called canine herpesvirus, which is completely different and not related to shingles. This article explains the differences, risks, and what to do if your dog is exposed.
What Is Shingles?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) that remains dormant in the body after a person has chickenpox. It typically causes a painful, blistering rash on one side of the body. Shingles is contagious to humans who have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, but it spreads through direct contact with the fluid from the shingles blisters.
Importantly, VZV is a human-specific virus. It does not infect animals, including dogs. Dogs lack the cellular receptors needed for VZV to enter their cells and replicate.
Can Dogs Catch Shingles From Humans?
No, dogs cannot catch shingles from humans. The varicella-zoster virus cannot infect dogs. There is no scientific evidence that dogs can contract VZV or develop shingles-like symptoms. If your dog comes into contact with shingles blisters or fluid, the virus will not cause an infection in the dog.
However, it is still a good idea to keep your dog away from open shingles blisters. While VZV does not infect dogs, the blisters can be painful and may be accidentally scratched or licked, which could lead to secondary bacterial infections or irritation in your dog.
Do Dogs Get a Similar Condition?
Dogs do not get shingles, but they can be affected by their own herpesvirus: canine herpesvirus (CHV). Canine herpesvirus is a different virus that causes a range of symptoms in dogs, especially in puppies. In adult dogs, CHV often causes mild respiratory signs or no symptoms at all. In pregnant dogs, it can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. Puppies under three weeks of age are at highest risk for severe, often fatal, infections.
Because CHV is distinct from VZV, it cannot be transmitted to humans. Also, a dog cannot get CHV from a person with shingles or chickenpox. Each virus stays within its own host species.
Can Dogs Transmit Shingles to Humans?
No. Dogs cannot transmit shingles to humans because they do not carry the varicella-zoster virus. A dog cannot become a carrier of VZV. If your dog has been near someone with shingles, there is no risk of your dog spreading the virus to other people. The only way shingles spreads is through direct contact with the fluid from a shingles rash of an infected human.
What Should I Do if My Dog Is Exposed to Shingles?
If your dog licks or comes into contact with shingles blisters, there is no need to panic. The virus will not infect your dog. However, you should clean the area where contact occurred with mild soap and water to remove any residual virus. Monitor the contact site on your dog for signs of irritation, such as redness, swelling, or licking. If you notice any skin issues, consult your veterinarian.
For immunocompromised dogs (e.g., those on chemotherapy or with chronic illnesses), there is still no risk of VZV infection, but it is wise to minimize contact with active shingles sores to avoid any secondary bacterial infections.
Can Dogs Get Chickenpox?
No. Dogs cannot get chickenpox, which is the primary infection caused by VZV. Like shingles, chickenpox is a human-only disease. Dogs are not susceptible to VZV at any stage. The symptoms of chickenpox (fever, itchy rash) do not occur in dogs because the virus cannot replicate in their cells.
When to See a Veterinarian
If your dog develops a rash or skin lesions, it is unlikely to be related to shingles or chickenpox. Common causes of rashes in dogs include allergies, bacterial or fungal infections, parasites like mites, or contact dermatitis. If your dog has a rash that is itchy, painful, or spreading, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Additionally, if your dog has been around a person with shingles and shows signs of illness (lethargy, fever, loss of appetite), consult your vet. While VZV is not the culprit, other illnesses could be present.
Key Takeaways
Dogs cannot catch shingles from humans because the varicella-zoster virus is species-specific. Dogs have their own herpesvirus that is not transmissible to people. If you have shingles, you can safely interact with your dog without fear of passing the infection. However, keep your dog away from open blisters to avoid irritation or secondary infections. Always practice good hygiene, and consult your vet if your dog develops any skin issues.