Your dog’s gut health can affect their behavior.
Does that sound odd?
After all, the digestive system is in one part of the body and the brain in another. Recent studies on dogs have shown that a healthy microbiome in a dog—the vast ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and viral organisms in their digestive tracts—can make a significant difference in their behavior. Scientists now know that the microbiome, often referred to as the gut, communicates with the brain. This knowledge has led to a new nickname for the gut —“the second brain.” There appears to be a two-way communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the neurological system. Even if you don’t want to delve deep into the science, it pays to know how supporting a healthy gut microbiome in your pet leads to healthier digestion and more desirable behavior. Follow these three easy tips to support a healthy gut in your dog.
1. Make sure your dog sticks to a healthy diet. Do some research on what type of food is best for your specific breed of dog. Just like humans, dogs shouldn’t eat heavily processed foods with lots of carbohydrates. These types of foods can negatively impact your dog’s gut health. Talk to your vet to get some expert advice in this area.
2. Incorporate exercise into your dog’s life. Healthy digestion in dogs is similar to healthy digestion in humans. We were made to move and so are they. Consider your breed of dog when choosing an exercise program. With some canines, a brisk walk is adequate. Other breeds need more intense exercise. Make sure you’re not under or over exercising your dog.
3. Take responsibility for a healthy gut biome for your pet. One of the best choices you can make is to give your dog a daily probiotic supplement that supports proper digestion and bowel health. Look for powerful probiotics like Bifidobacterium animalis and Bifidobacterium bifidum, both are known to balance intestinal microflora.
Gut health is crucial for the overall health and well-being of your animal. Make your dog’s “second brain” health a top priority in your goals for a healthy life for your best friend.