WHY GUT HEALTH MATTERS FOR WHOLE DOG HEALTH

Sometimes life is much simpler than we make it out to be, especially when it comes to our four-legged family members. On our journey to becoming the best possible dog parents that we can be, it’s not uncommon for us to worry about the overall health and well-being of our pups. In fact, almost 2 out of every 3 (or 66%) of dog owners worry about their pet’s health. But what if we told you that the secret to a happy, tail-wagging pup might be as simple as a healthy gut?  

That’s right, a healthy gut equals a healthy dog. So, let’s explore why a healthy gut is the key to whole dog health! 

The Microbiome 

The microbiome is the collection of all microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and their genes, that naturally live in and on your dog’s body. Despite their teeny-tiny size, these organisms contribute in a big way to your pup’s overall health and wellness. 

Understanding the Gut Microbiome  

At 6 months old, healthy puppies have a gut microbiome made up of more than 500 different types of microbes. As dogs age, this diversity decreases a little as older dogs typically retain over 400 types of bacteria and other microbes in their digestive tracts. Approximately 80% of these microbes are beneficial, while the remaining 20% may pose harm. In a healthy gut, beneficial microbes produce chemicals that eliminate harmful bacteria. 

The Role of Prebiotics and Probiotics on Gut Health 

Both essential for gut health, prebiotics and probiotics play different roles in maintaining a balanced gut microbiome. Often called good or friendly bacteria, probiotics are live bacteria that help maintain or restore the naturally occurring beneficial bacteria in the gut, while prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed the healthy bacteria in your dog’s gut. It is important to note that your pups gut creates its own naturally occurring beneficial bacteria and without prebiotics, probiotics lack the essential nutrients required to grow and multiply. The billions of bacteria in your dog's gastrointestinal tract are used to digest food, produce vitamins and nutrients, fight infections, and strengthen your pup’s immune system. 

4 Reasons Why Gut Health Matters for Whole Dog Health 

In dogs, the gut microbiome is crucial for digestion and nutrient absorption, immune system functions, mental and emotional regulation, weight management, and reducing the risk of dental disease.  

1. Enhanced Digestive Health & Nutrient Absorption: A healthy gut allows for efficient nutrient absorption. Physical or emotional stress can disrupt the bacterial balance in your dog’s gut, leading to nutritional problems, including poor nutrient absorption. Prebiotics feed the naturally occurring beneficial bacteria which improves the gut environment, enhancing the absorption of essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, ensuring that your dog gets the most from his or her food. This is especially important for dogs with dietary sensitivities or specialized diets. Additionally, prebiotics can help prevent and alleviate digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by supporting a balanced gut microbiome.   

2. Immune System Support: With approximately 70% to 80% of your dog’s immune system in the gastrointestinal tract, prebiotics can strengthen your pup’s immune response by nurturing a healthy gut microbiome. In fact, a study found that prebiotic supplementation improved signs of immune response in senior dogs.   

3. Mental and Emotional Regulation: Since your dog’s gastrointestinal tract and brain are in constant contact, proper microorganisms in the intestines may help with mental and emotional regulation. In fact, research suggests that there’s a strong connection between gut health and mental health known as the gut-brain axis. By supporting a healthy gut, prebiotics may contribute to reduced anxiety and an improved mood in dogs.  

4. Weight Management: Prebiotics can also aid in weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing overeating. This can be very beneficial for dogs prone to obesity.  

The Importance of a Balanced Diet for Gut Health 

Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is one of one of the most important factors in maintaining gut health in dogs as it can promote a healthy gut microbiome and support overall well-being! So, make sure to feed your dog only high-quality protein, include fiber-rich foods like sweet potatoes in your dog’s diet, supplement with prebiotics as needed and avoid processed foods. By providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a stress-free environment, you can help maintain your dog’s gut health and overall quality of life!   

Introducing Gutsy Balance Bites