A new study by researchers in Spain found that owning a dog increases your risk of contracting COVID-19. Researchers from the University of Granada and the Andalusian School of Public Health in Spain questioned over 2,000 people and found that 4.7% had tested positive for the coronavirus.
The study participants were also asked about their recent behaviors so that researchers could identify any activities that may be linked to an increased likelihood of getting COVID-19.
The researchers said that one of the biggest risk factors was owning a dog, with dog owners having a 78% higher risk of catching COVID-19. The researchers believe the dogs could pick up the virus from surfaces while they are being taken for a walk outside. When they get back inside, it is possible the virus can spread to their owners.