The short answer is that you cannot get chiggers directly from your dog, as they do not typically transfer from one host to another. These tiny mites are acquired from the environment. While your dog can bring them into your home, they are unlikely to crawl directly from your pet’s fur onto your body. The risk is indirect, stemming from chiggers dropping off the dog and then attaching to a human nearby.
Understanding the Chigger Life Stage
Chiggers are not insects but are the parasitic larval stage of certain mites, belonging to the arachnid class. These larvae are nearly microscopic, measuring about 0.3 millimeters, and are the only stage that feeds on mammals. They are often bright red or yellowish-orange and possess six legs, differentiating them from the eight-legged nymph and adult stages.
Contrary to common belief, chigger larvae do not burrow into the skin or feed on blood. Instead, they use specialized mouthparts to pierce the skin and inject a digestive enzyme. This enzyme breaks down the host’s skin cells, liquefying the tissue which the chigger then consumes through a feeding tube called a stylostome. The intense itching and inflammation associated with a bite is an allergic reaction to this injected enzyme.
How Chiggers Move Between Hosts
Chiggers are acquired by hosts, including dogs and humans, primarily by crawling onto them from vegetation. The mites wait on the tips of grass blades, weeds, or brush, typically close to the ground, and attach to a passing host. Since they cannot fly or jump, movement relies entirely on direct contact with the environment.
A dog walking through dense vegetation can easily pick up hundreds of chiggers. However, chiggers are adapted to fall off their host after feeding for a few days to molt into the next life stage on the ground. They are not known to actively move from the dog’s body to a nearby person. The main risk to a human is from chiggers dropping off the dog onto carpeting, bedding, or furniture, where they may subsequently attach to a human host.
Identifying and Treating Human Bites
Chigger bites typically appear as small, intensely itchy red bumps, sometimes resembling pimples or hives. The itching often does not begin until three to six hours after the chigger has attached and started feeding. These bites are most commonly found in clusters where clothing fits tightly against the skin, such as around the ankles, waistline, groin, or behind the knees.
If you suspect exposure, immediately washing the affected area with soap and water can help remove any unattached mites. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms once the reaction has started. Over-the-counter anti-itch products like calamine lotion or hydrocortisone creams can soothe the inflammation. Taking an oral antihistamine may also help reduce the itching sensation. Medical attention should be sought if the bites show signs of a secondary bacterial infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus.
Protecting Pets and Outdoor Spaces
Prevention for both pets and people involves managing the environment where chiggers thrive. Since chiggers prefer dense vegetation, keeping the lawn mowed short and removing brush piles can significantly reduce their habitat. Applying a non-toxic chigger control product to known problem areas can also help manage the population.
For your dog, the first line of defense is using vet-approved mite repellents and preventatives, which may contain ingredients like fipronil or permethrin. After outdoor activity in chigger-prone areas, a thorough inspection and a bath with a gentle, pet-safe shampoo will help wash away any unattached mites. Regularly checking your pet’s belly, ears, and between their toes is advisable during the peak chigger season of late spring through early fall.