Dog Gut Health: Separating Fact from Fiction

Does your dog have frequent tummy upsets, bad breath, or unpredictable poos? Did you know gut health can play a huge role in their dog's overall wellbeing, from digestion and immunity to mood and energy levels. But what exactly is gut health? Let's look at a few misconceptions and explore the facts about your dog's digestive system.

Misconception 1: A Dog’s Gut Is Just for Digestion

The truth: A dog’s gut is a complex system that does more than just break down food. It plays a crucial role in immune function, nutrient absorption, and even mood regulation. According to The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, the gut is home to billions of microorganisms called the gut microbiome, which influence everything from digestion to brain health.

Misconception 2: A Dog’s Stool Quality Doesn’t Matter

The truth: Stool quality is a key indicator of gut health. A healthy gut produces well-formed, consistent stools. If your dog is having loose stools, frequent poos, or mucus in the stool, it could be a sign of gut imbalance. 

Misconception 3: Probiotics Are Just for Humans

The truth: Probiotics are not just for humans. They can be very beneficial for dogs too. In fact, dog-specific probiotics are designed to support the canine gut microbiome. Research from The Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition shows that probiotics can help reduce acute diarrhea and support long-term gut health in dogs.

Misconception 4: A Dog’s Gut Is Always Healthy Unless It’s Sick

The truth: Gut health can be subtle and hard to detect. Your dog may not be showing obvious signs of illness, but they could still be experiencing gut imbalances that affect their energy, coat, and mood. The Canine Health Foundation suggests that changes in behavior like increased anxiety or compulsive licking may be linked to gut health issues.

Misconception 5: A Dog’s Gut Health Can’t Be Improved at Home

The truth: There are many ways to support your dog’s gut health from home, without needing to visit the vet for every small issue. Simple steps like feeding a balanced diet, adding probiotics, and reducing stress can make a big difference. 

Check out our dog food range and product range to support your dog’s gut health. We'd love to hear more community tips in the comments - what have you done to improve your dog's gut health and keep it healthy?