The intestinal microbiome of dogs influences immune function, mental health, and disease susceptibility, with diet being the primary modifiable factor.
Microbiome imbalance in dogs is linked to inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, anxiety, and other common health problems. Diet is the most important long-term determinant of microbiome composition. Highly processed diets with limited fiber and ingredient diversity may contribute to the high rates of digestive and allergic disease in modern pet dogs. Supporting microbiome health through diet is a preventive welfare approach.