What the emerging science of the canine gut microbiome tells us about diet, health and the broader welfare implications.
The gut microbiome represents a rapidly emerging dimension of canine welfare that has historically been invisible to owners and clinicians alike. The gut-brain axis — bidirectional communication between the gut microbiome and the central nervous system — means that microbiome disruption can manifest as both physical gastrointestinal symptoms and behavioural changes including anxiety and fear responses. This creates a welfare connection that spans from diet quality and antibiotic stewardship to behavioural wellbeing that was not previously recognised. While the science is still maturing and many commercial claims outpace the evidence, the core principles — dietary diversity, minimal unnecessary antibiotic exposure and targeted probiotic use — are well-supported.