It is now widely accepted that gut health can have a profound effect on our overall health. Many studies in humans have demonstrated that diseases such as cancers, mental health and autoimmune disorders are influenced by our gut health. It is no different for our canine companions.
The microbes in the gut do so much more than digest food. They provide a defensive barrier to help fend off dangerous pathogens, their by-products reduce the growth of pathogens and help fix any gaps in the gut membrane, reducing the risk of leaky gut and susceptibility to food allergies. When the gut is working well the good bacteria keep the bad bacteria in check. However, if this balance gets upset, dysbiosis occurs and the bad bacteria begin to overrun the good bacteria. This can lead to less gut repair and more inflammation, and less protection from pathogens.
How do I know if my dog’s gut is unhealthy?
If your dog suffers from:
There’s a good chance your dog’s gut could do with some help.
Changing your dog to a diet of real, fresh food is a good start to improving your dog's gut health.
How to improve your dog’s gut health