Dog Gut Health: Signs Your Dog’s Digestive System May Need Support

We often think about our dogs’ heart, joints, teeth and weight when considering their health, but what about their gut? 

Your dog’s digestive system does much more than simply process their food. The gut is home to a complex community of microorganisms, known collectively as the gut microbiome, which plays an important role in digestion, nutrient absorption and the normal function of the immune system. 

When this delicate community becomes disrupted, it is sometimes referred to as dysbiosis. 

We offer a microbiome testing service for our clients, helping us take a closer look at what may be happening inside your pet’s gut. 

What is the gut microbiome? 

Your dog’s intestines contain trillions of microorganisms, including many different types of bacteria. Although the thought of bacteria living inside your pet may not sound particularly appealing, most of these microorganisms are a normal and important part of a healthy digestive system. 

A balanced intestinal microbiome helps with the breakdown of food and production of certain beneficial compounds. It also interacts closely with the intestinal lining and immune system. 

The microbiome isn’t fixed, however. It can be influenced by factors including your dog’s diet, age, environment, illness, stress, and some medications. 

Antibiotics can affect the bacteria living within the intestines. They can be extremely important and sometimes lifesaving medicines, but because they act against bacteria, they can also alter the gut microbiome. In many dogs, the microbiome recovers over time, although changes can persist for longer in some individuals. 

What are the symptoms of poor gut health in dogs? 

Digestive problems are one of the most obvious reasons to investigate your dog’s intestinal health. 

Signs to look out for can include: 

• Recurrent or ongoing diarrhoea 

• Frequently soft or poorly formed stools 

• Vomiting 

• A noticeable change in flatulence 

• Increased gut noises or abdominal discomfort 

• Mucus in the stools 

• Changes in appetite 

• Unexplained weight loss 

• Changes in how frequently your dog passes stools 

Occasional digestive upsets are common and don’t necessarily mean that there is an underlying gut problem. However, recurring symptoms or a noticeable change from what is normal for your dog should be discussed with our veterinary team. 

These signs can have many different causes, including parasites, dietary intolerances, infections, pancreatic disease and chronic intestinal conditions, so investigating the wider picture is important, rather than assuming the microbiome is responsible. 

When could microbiome testing be useful? 

We offer microbiome testing to take a closer look at the microorganisms living within your pet’s gut. 

We may consider this service particularly helpful if your pet: 

• Has recurring or persistent digestive problems 

• Has previously required courses of antibiotics 

• Has experienced changes in behaviour that warrant further investigation 

Microbiome testing can provide additional information about the balance of bacteria within the intestines and identify changes that may be consistent with dysbiosis. 

Importantly, it isn’t designed to replace other diagnostic tests. Depending on your dog’s symptoms, we may also recommend faecal testing, blood tests, dietary trials, imaging or other investigations. The most appropriate approach will depend on your individual dog and their medical history. 

How can you support your dog’s intestinal health? 

There is no single diet, supplement or probiotic that is right for every dog. Supporting gut health starts with looking at your pet as an individual. 

Feeding a complete, balanced diet appropriate for your dog’s age and health is important. Sudden changes in food should generally be avoided where possible, particularly in dogs with sensitive stomachs. 

Prebiotics and probiotics may also be useful in certain situations, but products differ considerably and aren’t necessarily appropriate for every digestive problem. If your dog regularly experiences an upset stomach, speak to us before repeatedly changing foods or adding supplements, as doing so can sometimes make identifying the underlying problem more difficult. 

Could your dog’s gut be telling us something? 

Your dog’s poo may not be the most glamorous subject, but changes in their digestion can give us valuable clues about their health. 

If your dog has ongoing digestive issues, has recently had courses of antibiotics, is experiencing unexplained skin problems, or you have noticed changes in their behaviour, it may be worth taking a closer look at their intestinal microbiome. 

Speak to our team to find out more about our microbiome testing service and whether it could be appropriate for your pet.