Early Dog Exposure Linked to Healthier Immune Advancement, Potentially Reducing Food Allergy Risk in Children
New research from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital suggests that exposure to dogs in early childhood may play a protective role against developing food allergies. The study, published in the journal Allergy in November 2025, challenges conventional thinking about allergic reactions and offers insights into the “hygiene hypothesis.”
Researchers analyzed the genetic activity of antibodies produced by 147 children diagnosed with atopic dermatitis (AD), a skin condition that ofen precedes the development of allergies. They focused on somatic hypermutation (SHM), a process where B cells in the immune system refine antibody production for stronger responses. Surprisingly, children with sensitivities to foods like peanuts, milk, and eggs exhibited less SHM in their IgE genes – the antibody type responsible for severe allergic reactions.
“For children in this cohort, under six years old, food allergic sensitization looks more like a suppressed immune system instead of an overactive one,” explained Dr. Krishan Roskin, the study’s corresponding author.He noted that the immune systems of these children appeared to be lagging behind their peers by over three years in development.
Though, this effect was noticeably different in children who lived with dogs. Dog exposure appeared to counteract the suppressed immune development, restoring more typical IgE immune function. The protective benefit was specifically linked to dogs, with no similar effect observed with other pets.
These findings support the hygiene hypothesis, which proposes that reduced exposure to microbes in early life can increase allergy risk. The study provides a potential mechanism for this, demonstrating how less-sterile environments, like those with a dog, can positively influence the developing immune system. Dr. Roskin highlighted the relevance of this discovery, noting that new drugs are currently being tested that aim to stimulate the immune system in a similar manner.
It’s crucial to note that the study’s findings are currently limited to food allergies. No connection was found between B cell changes and airborne allergies like pollen or mold. Further research is planned to expand these results to broader populations and individuals with clinically confirmed food allergies.
the research team included experts from Cincinnati Children’s, the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, the University of London, and King’s College London. The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health (R01GM079428) and the National Science Foundation (2114950).
