Should you let a dog lick your face?

Think a dog's mouth is cleaner than a human's? Think again! Both contain bacteria - but there's no way to compare, as only 16% of canine oral microbiota overlaps with humans'.

See also: 10 signs of cancer in dogs

A study in the Archives of Oral Biology found that there are harmful pathogens in your dog's mouth, while another study from 2015 revealed that oral-to-oral transfer from dogs to owners can potentially cause gingivitis and periodontal disease.

If you have a cut in your mouth or bleeding gums, take extra care. Bacteria from your dog's tongue could potentially enter the open wound and spread infection into your body.

And although both human and dog saliva have anti-bacterial properties, you should never let your dog lick your wound, as you run the risk of infection.

Three gifts to show your pet some love: