Dog food types
Do I need to worry about raw dog food making me sick too?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Yes, handling raw dog food carries the same food safety risks as handling raw chicken or beef for your own cooking, since bacteria like salmonella and campylobacter can transfer from the meat to your hands, kitchen surfaces, and your dog's mouth after eating.
How the bacteria reach you
Handling raw meat, wiping down a food prep bowl, or even being licked by a dog that has just eaten raw food can transfer bacteria to your hands and from there to your own mouth if you do not wash up.
Who is most at risk
Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and anyone with a weakened immune system face a higher chance of serious illness from these bacteria, which is why some vets advise against raw feeding in households with vulnerable family members.
Simple habits that cut the risk sharply
Wash hands with soap for at least 20 seconds after handling raw food or touching your dog's mouth after a meal, use a dedicated cutting board and bowl for raw meals, and disinfect surfaces with a bleach solution or hot soapy water right after prep.
Key takeaways
- Raw dog food handling carries the same bacterial risk as handling raw meat for human meals.
- Vulnerable household members face a higher risk from cross-contamination.
- Dedicated equipment and thorough handwashing after handling meaningfully reduce the risk.