In both humans and animals, gut health and the microbiome have recently received a lot of attention. While the human microbiome is still a relatively new scientific subject, our understanding of it is fast evolving, and veterinary studies aren’t far behind.
Our dogs’ distinct intestinal flora appears to have an impact on much more than digestion and metabolism. Rather, these microbial habitats have a significant impact on a variety of other body functions. It’s no surprise that humans use the term “guts” to describe bravery or inner strength; the gut is an important factor in worldwide pet health.
What is the Gut Microbiome?
A microbiome is a microorganism-rich mini-ecosystem that includes fungi, viruses, protozoa, and—most notably—bacteria. Each body system has its own microbiota, but the intestines, with about one trillion bacteria, have the highest number of these microscopic organisms. To put this in perspective, your dog’s hair, eyes, skin, bones, and, well, their entire being are made up of billions of cells.
Despite this, the population of bacteria in your pet’s gut outnumbers it by a factor of 10. No two pets have the same microbiome, which makes studying these radically different populations fascinating. While most people understand the gut microbiome’s significance in digestion, it serves so many other functions that it’s frequently referred to as the “lost organ.”
Metabolism and Synthesis of Vitamins
Gut bacteria are skilled at breaking down complex carbohydrates and fiber that would otherwise flow undigested through the feces. Fermentation is a process that produces beneficial end-products for the host (your dog). End-products, also known as metabolites, supply energy to host cells, aid in cellular proliferation, and help with fat absorption. In addition, gut microorganisms aid in the production of vitamin K and a variety of B vitamins.
Healthy Brain Function
Experimental modifications to the gut microbiota can affect emotional behavior and linked brain systems. Changes in the gut’s bacterial makeup may play a role in brain illnesses like autism, anxiety, and depression. Even after administration with a specific probiotic strain, a study in dogs indicated a statistically significant improvement in nervous behaviors.
Improved Immune System
The intestinal flora of your pet plays a critical role in overall immunological function as a main barrier between the gut mucosa and the outside environment. These microorganisms not only help to protect the stomach from hazardous pathogens, but they also communicate with and impact the host immune cells by giving them energy and even influencing their activity.
According to research, microbe-free animals have fewer immune cells in the intestines and blood at birth than bacteria-exposed animals, showing a complex link between gut microbiota and immunological function.
Reduced Incidence of Kidney Disease with a Healthy Microbiome
Human results reveal that kidney disease may alter the bacterial makeup of the gut flora, as scientists investigate the diversity of ways the gut microbiome affects the body’s processes. This connection opens up a fascinating field of research that could lead to useful new therapeutic options for this chronic disease.
Knowing if Your Dog’s Microbiome is Healthy
The gut microbiome is made up of thousands of different bacteria species, some of which are useful and others which are harmful, all of which work together to influence intestinal and other physiologic activities. When the microbiome is out of balance, it can lead to a decrease in bacterial species diversity or an increase in pathogenic bacteria, which can result in a variety of clinical symptoms.
Dysbiosis is the medical term for this disorder. Symptoms in affected dogs include gastrointestinal symptoms, nutrient absorption problems, and changes in fecal consistency, among others.
Dysbiosis can cause these anomalies, although dysbiosis can also be caused by specific disease processes. Because this delicate ecology has such a significant impact on general health, an unbalanced microbiome could be to blame for pets suffering from a number of ailments. If your dog is healthy, their microbiome is likely to be as well.
Improving Your Dog’s Gut
It may be required to manipulate your pet’s digestive flora at some point during their lifetime. Your veterinarian may offer numerous products to support your pet’s intestinal health, whether it’s an acute episode of diarrhea, a persistent gastrointestinal condition, anxiety, or even allergies. Always check with your veterinarian before starting a supplement or changing your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has been diagnosed with a condition.
Prebiotics
Prebiotics can be thought of as nourishing food for good gut microorganisms. Beneficial bacteria are encouraged to produce beneficial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids when these specific fibers are provided.
While some prebiotics, such as inulin and certain whole grains, are healthy for dogs, others might cause toxicity. Prebiotics like garlic may be beneficial in moderation. But, their close relative, the onion, can produce Heinz body anemia, which is a hazardous loss of red blood cells.
Probiotics
We can successfully change the intestinal microbial balance for the better by directly providing enough doses of beneficial bacteria or probiotics to the gut. Probiotics for dogs are becoming increasingly popular in the treatment of diarrhea, gastrointestinal diseases, and even anxiety. While veterinary research into probiotic effectiveness is ongoing, the benefits of probiotics in human health are well known.
Full Bucket Health Daily Dog Probiotic
The FullBucket Daily Dog is a concentrated yeast-based formula that naturally supports digestion and immune function in adult dogs utilizing probiotic, prebiotic, digestive enzymes & L-Glutamine. It’s all natural, formulated and used by veterinarians, and assists in a healthy gut microbiome.
Maintain Your Dog’s Gut Microbiome
Since your dog’s gut is responsible for such a wide range of functions that keep her healthy, it only makes sense to look after it. Begin by providing a nutritious, species-appropriate diet for your dog and consulting with your holistic veterinarian about specialized supplements to meet their specific needs.
While there is still more to learn about the growing microbiome topic, recent research indicates that this microbiome can have a significant impact on overall canine health.
Read More:
The gut flora as a forgotten organ