{"id":15385,"date":"2025-04-04T06:13:47","date_gmt":"2025-04-04T13:13:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/?p=15139"},"modified":"2026-10-29T14:10:56","modified_gmt":"2026-10-29T21:10:56","slug":"dog-microbiome","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/dog-microbiome","title":{"rendered":"The Dog Microbiome: How Gut Health Impacts Your Dog\u2019s Well-being"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"15385\" class=\"elementor elementor-15385\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3cd5bdf4 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"3cd5bdf4\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-61764b6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"61764b6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"236\" data-end=\"408\">Discover the fascinating world of your dog\u2019s gut microbiome \u2014 the community of beneficial bacteria that plays a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and overall well-being.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"410\" data-end=\"669\">\n<li data-start=\"410\" data-end=\"477\">\n<p data-start=\"412\" data-end=\"477\">What the dog microbiome is and how it affects your pup\u2019s health<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"478\" data-end=\"535\">\n<p data-start=\"480\" data-end=\"535\">How diet shapes gut bacteria and influences digestion<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"536\" data-end=\"593\">\n<p data-start=\"538\" data-end=\"593\">Signs of an imbalanced microbiome and what you can do<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"594\" data-end=\"669\">\n<p data-start=\"596\" data-end=\"669\">Practical tips to support a healthy gut through nutrition and lifestyle<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2f5f69dd elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2f5f69dd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is home to millions of bacteria and other microorganisms that help maintain your dog\u2019s health. This population of microbes, called the gut microbiome, influences not only stool quality and digestive health but also overall well-being.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">About <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/departments-centers-and-institutes\/riney-canine-health-center\/canine-health-information\/diets-boost-immunity\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">70% of the immune system<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is located in the gut, which means that gut health can have far-reaching effects.\u00a0 In this guide, we&#8217;ll cover what gut health means for dogs, how to spot signs of imbalance, which foods and supplements support beneficial bacteria, and how to improve dog gut health naturally.<\/span><\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is gut health in dogs?<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"731\" class=\"wp-image-15173\" src=\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/dog-microbiome-1024x731.jpg\" alt=\"dog microbiome womans stomach\" srcset=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/dog-microbiome-1024x731.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/dog-microbiome-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/dog-microbiome-768x548.jpg 768w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/dog-microbiome.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gut health describes the balance and function of the gut microbiome, the community of bacteria and microorganisms living in your dog&#8217;s GI tract. These organisms produce vitamins, protect the intestinal lining, support immune function, and help break down food.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC9292158\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> shows that balanced, diverse microbiomes are linked to<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-firm-up-dog-poop.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">solid poop<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, balanced immune system health, and<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5082693\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fewer chronic diseases<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. On the other hand, disrupted microbiomes (called dysbiosis) are linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), allergies,<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-tell-if-your-dog-is-overweight.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">obesity<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and anxiety.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Microbiome research is a rapidly evolving area of veterinary medicine, with new findings on canine gut health and its impacts emerging frequently. While we don\u2019t know everything about gut microorganisms, we do know that gut health in dogs is an important part of overall health.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Signs of a healthy and unhealthy gut in dogs<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing the symptoms of poor gut health in dogs can help you take steps to improve it. Here\u2019s what to watch when considering whether your dog could have an unbalanced microbiome or an unhealthy gut.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Stool quality and consistency<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healthy poops are firm and well-formed. Loose stools, diarrhea, constipation, or blood in stool are signs that something isn\u2019t quite right in your dog\u2019s digestive tract.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Energy levels and appetite<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dogs with a healthy, functional gut have a good appetite and consistent energy. Losing interest in food or acting ravenously hungry could be signs of an unhealthy gut.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Skin and coat condition<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The gut regulates nutrient absorption, and a dog who isn\u2019t getting enough of certain vitamins, minerals, or fats could develop skin or coat problems. On the other hand, a healthy, balanced gut supports a shiny, healthy coat.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Digestive sounds and gas<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While the occasional burp, stomach gurgle, or passing gas is normal for most dogs, they should not occur regularly. If your dog struggles with these gut issues all the time, it could be because of an unbalanced gut.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Vomiting and nausea<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea and vomiting have many possible causes, including an unhealthy gut. Dogs with certain digestive issues or unhealthy bacteria dominating their microbiome may suffer from vomiting or nausea more than a typical pet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Behavioral changes<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The gut microbiome can affect behavioral health through the<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC10827376\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">gut-brain axis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Poor gut health may play a role in the development of anxiety or other behavioral issues, while a healthy gut can support more balanced behavior.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you notice any changes to your dog\u2019s health that might indicate an unhealthy gut, schedule an appointment with your vet. Many of the symptoms of an unbalanced microbiome can be caused by other, more serious health problems that your vet will need to rule out before recommending gut-health-specific treatments.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What affects your dog&#8217;s gut health?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Several factors can affect your dog&#8217;s gut microbiome and overall gut health.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Diet quality and ingredient diversity<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your dog eats a diet low in fiber or lacking in essential nutrients, they may have less diversity or an imbalance of gut microorganisms. Feeding your dog highly digestible, nutrient-rich food supports a balanced microbiome.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Antibiotics and medications<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antibiotics are necessary at times, but when they eliminate harmful bacteria, they can also kill beneficial bacteria in the gut. If your veterinarian prescribes antibiotics, you may want to ask about supporting your dog&#8217;s gut flora during or after treatment with a gut health<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/healthy-gut-healthy-pup-probiotics-for-dogs.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">probiotic for dogs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Stress and lifestyle factors<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like people, even healthy dogs can experience gut health disruptions from stress. Major life changes, such as moving or adding a new pet to the household, and ongoing<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/natural-calming-remedies-for-dogs.html\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">stressors like anxiety,<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can upset your dog&#8217;s digestion or cause diarrhea.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Illness or infection<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infections, parasites, and inflammation can damage the intestines and cause a leaky gut in dogs, where the gut barrier becomes easily irritated. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC10609632\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research shows<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often have unbalanced microbiota.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Nutrients to support a healthy gut<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Feeding your dog a variety of gut-health-supporting nutrients can help maintain their overall health and well-being. Here are foods for dogs to consider.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>High-fiber vegetables<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vegetables like pumpkin, sweet potato, carrots, green beans, broccoli, asparagus, and leafy greens contain a mix of fibers that feed the good bacteria in your dog&#8217;s large intestine. Always serve vegetables cooked without butter or seasonings.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Fermented foods<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plain yogurt, unsweetened kefir, and low-sodium cottage cheese are probiotic-rich foods with bacteria that can support gut health in dogs. Avoid products that contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Lean meats and fish<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lean meats like boiled chicken, turkey, eggs, bone broth, and whitefish are low-fat, easily digestible protein sources to support GI tract health without irritating sensitive stomachs. Fish are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil, which may help support immune system function.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Whole grains<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cooked whole grains like brown rice and oats are sources of soluble fiber that support intestinal health and aid digestion. These grains are also easily digestible choices to soothe the GI tracts of dogs with sensitive stomachs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Fresh diets<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC9527297\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research shows<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that dogs who eat fresh food tend to have healthier microbiota than those who eat processed commercial dog foods. Fresh diets are digestible and contain diverse fiber types and nutrients that may help support balanced gut bacteria.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When adding new foods to your dog\u2019s diet, avoid sudden changes and always start with a small amount. Feed dietary additions in moderation and keep treats to less than 10% of total calories.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber for dogs<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/understanding-nasc-certification.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supplements<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> containing good bacteria and fiber to support the bacteria can offer additional support for your dog&#8217;s gut health.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Probiotics<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/signs-your-dog-may-need-probiotics.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Probiotics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> contain live, beneficial bacteria. Certain strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have been <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S2161831322001995\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">shown to<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> support digestive health, soothe an upset gut, and promote healthy immune function.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Prebiotics<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prebiotics, such as inulin and other prebiotic foods, are a special type of fiber used to feed gut bacteria so they can work better. Research shows that<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/animalmicrobiome.biomedcentral.com\/articles\/10.1186\/s42523-021-00098-0\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dogs fed a combination of prebiotics and probiotics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> had more beneficial species, fewer harmful species, and less frequent diarrhea. Chicory root is a common prebiotic ingredient.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Dietary fiber<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/fiber-for-dogs.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fiber<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> supports digestion by bulking up stool, encouraging regular bowel movements, and feeding healthy gut microbes. Dogs can benefit from a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber, which may improve overall stool quality and prevent diarrhea and constipation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Nutrition built for the long game<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Feeding your dog a high-quality, digestible diet, offering consistent portions, and introducing new foods gradually are things pet parents can do to support long-term gut health. Additionally, supplements like<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/natural-probiotics-for-dogs.html\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">probiotics for dogs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or prebiotics recommended by your vet can keep your pet\u2019s gut in good shape.<\/span><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-cac907e e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"cac907e\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b47001a elementor-widget elementor-widget-video\" data-id=\"b47001a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;youtube_url&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/watch?v=VBguE5ohOl4&quot;,&quot;loop&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;lazy_load&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;video_type&quot;:&quot;youtube&quot;,&quot;controls&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"video.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-wrapper elementor-open-inline\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-video\"><\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c44120e elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c44120e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">FAQ<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-20dbd25 elementor-widget elementor-widget-n-accordion\" data-id=\"20dbd25\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;default_state&quot;:&quot;expanded&quot;,&quot;max_items_expended&quot;:&quot;one&quot;,&quot;n_accordion_animation_duration&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;ms&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:400,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"nested-accordion.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-n-accordion\" aria-label=\"Accordion. Open links with Enter or Space, close with Escape, and navigate with Arrow Keys\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-3440\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" open>\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"1\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-3440\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><h3 class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> How long does it take to improve a dog's gut health? <\/h3><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-3440\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7765c1c e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"7765c1c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-497bf9a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"497bf9a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The length of time it takes to see results from switching foods or supplementing with pre- or probiotics depends on the individual dog and the reason for the imbalance. Some dogs struggling with a chronic imbalance may take weeks to improve, while others can start to feel better in just a few days. Your veterinarian can help you determine when you might see results from dietary changes.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-3441\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"2\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-3441\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><h3 class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Are there foods that can harm my dog's gut health? <\/h3><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-3441\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e29d550 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"e29d550\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3696130 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3696130\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foods high in sugar, additives, or preservatives may disrupt your dog&#8217;s gut flora over time. Feeding a complete, balanced, whole-food diet supports GI tract health and microbiome diversity.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-3442\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"3\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-3442\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><h3 class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Can senior dogs benefit from gut health support? <\/h3><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-3442\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-774d6c5 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"774d6c5\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9b01499 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9b01499\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As dogs age or develop health problems, their gut microbiome can change. Older dogs can benefit from gut health support, including probiotics, prebiotics, inulin, and a digestible, nutrient-rich diet, to help maintain digestive health and nutrient absorption.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How long does it take to improve a dog's gut health?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The length of time it takes to see results from switching foods or supplementing with pre- or probiotics depends on the individual dog and the reason for the imbalance. Some dogs struggling with a chronic imbalance may take weeks to improve, while others can start to feel better in just a few days. Your veterinarian can help you determine when you might see results from dietary changes.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Are there foods that can harm my dog's gut health?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Foods high in sugar, additives, or preservatives may disrupt your dog&#8217;s gut flora over time. Feeding a complete, balanced, whole-food diet supports GI tract health and microbiome diversity.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can senior dogs benefit from gut health support?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"As dogs age or develop health problems, their gut microbiome can change. Older dogs can benefit from gut health support, including probiotics, prebiotics, inulin, and a digestible, nutrient-rich diet, to help maintain digestive health and nutrient absorption.\"}}]}<\/script>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bf0cf43 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"bf0cf43\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Citations<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Suchodolski, Jan S. 2021. \u201cAnalysis of the Gut Microbiome in Dogs and Cats.\u201d\u00a0<em>Veterinary Clinical Pathology<\/em>, September. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/vcp.13031.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>\u200cPlaza-Diaz, Julio, Francisco Javier Ruiz-Ojeda, Mercedes Gil-Campos, and Angel Gil. 2019. \u201cMechanisms of Action of Probiotics.\u201d\u00a0<em>Advances in Nutrition<\/em>\u00a010 (1): S49\u201366. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/advances\/nmy063.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Tanprasertsuk, Jirayu, Aashish R. Jha, Justin Shmalberg, Roshonda B. Jones, LeeAnn M. Perry, Heather Maughan, and Ryan W. Honaker. 2021. \u201cThe Microbiota of Healthy Dogs Demonstrates Individualized Responses to Synbiotic Supplementation in a Randomized Controlled Trial.\u201d\u00a0<em>Animal Microbiome<\/em>\u00a03 (May). https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1186\/s42523-021-00098-0.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>\u201cDiets to Boost Immunity.\u201d 2022. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. September 30, 2022. https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/departments-centers-and-institutes\/riney-canine-health-center\/canine-health-information\/diets-boost-immunity.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>\u200cYang, Qing, and Zhenlong Wu. 2023. \u201cGut Probiotics and Health of Dogs and Cats: Benefits, Applications, and Underlying Mechanisms.\u201d\u00a0<em>Microorganisms<\/em>\u00a011 (10): 2452\u201352. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3390\/microorganisms11102452.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>\u200cGeary, Elizabeth L, Patr\u00edcia M Oba, Catherine C Applegate, Lindsay V Clark, Christopher J Fields, and Kelly S Swanson. 2022. \u201cEffects of a Mildly Cooked Human-Grade Dog Diet on Gene Expression, Skin and Coat Health Measures, and Fecal Microbiota of Healthy Adult Dogs.\u201d\u00a0<em>Journal of Animal Science<\/em>\u00a0100 (10). https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/jas\/skac265.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>\u200cSacoor, Carina, John D. Marugg, Nuno R. Lima, Nuno Empadinhas, and Liliana Montezinho. 2024. \u201cGut-Brain Axis Impact on Canine Anxiety Disorders: New Challenges for Behavioral Veterinary Medicine.\u201d\u00a0<em>Veterinary Medicine International<\/em>\u00a02024 (January): e2856759. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1155\/2024\/2856759.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>\u200cDavis, Cindy D. 2016. \u201cThe Gut Microbiome and Its Role in Obesity.\u201d\u00a0<em>Nutrition Today<\/em>\u00a051 (4): 167\u201374. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/nt.0000000000000167.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>\u200c\u201cDiets to Boost Immunity.\u201d 2022. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. September 30, 2022. https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/departments-centers-and-institutes\/riney-canine-health-center\/canine-health-information\/diets-boost-immunity.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f713dd2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-global elementor-global-16109 elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f713dd2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"p1\"><i>This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and\/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and\/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.<\/i><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the fascinating world of your dog\u2019s gut microbiome \u2014 the community of beneficial bacteria that plays a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. What the dog microbiome is and how it affects your pup\u2019s health How diet shapes gut bacteria and influences digestion Signs of an imbalanced microbiome and what you can [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":18,"featured_media":13989,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","_jffd_show_updated":"","footnotes":"","_ppma_block_editor_authors":"{\"authors\":[286,289],\"author_categories\":{\"286\":\"1\",\"289\":\"3\"},\"fallback_author_user\":\"14\",\"ppma_author_box_select\":\"\",\"selected_authors\":[{\"id\":286,\"display_name\":\"Elizabeth Kowalski, CVT, FFCP\",\"is_guest\":0,\"category_id\":\"1\"},{\"id\":289,\"display_name\":\"Angela Beal, DVM\",\"is_guest\":0,\"category_id\":\"3\"}]}"},"categories":[80],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[286,289],"class_list":["post-15385","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wellbeing"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.8 (Yoast SEO v28.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>All About the Dog Microbiome | JustFoodforDogs Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover how gut health works for dogs, what signs of imbalance look like, and which foods and supplements can support a balanced microbiome.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/dog-microbiome\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta 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