Promoting intestinal health in dogs
Your dog's gut health plays an important role in their well-being and immune system. The microbiome plays a key role in this. Find out more about this and how you can support your dog's gut health in this article.
Promoting intestinal health in dogs
Your dog's intestinal health is much more than just a digestive issue - it affects your four-legged friend's overall well-being and immune system. At the center of this complex system is the microbiome - the community of billions of microorganisms that live in your dog's gut.
The microbiome is not only essential for digestion, but plays a central role in the immune system, vitality and even skin and coat health. Find out why the microbiome is so important and how you can support it with the right diet!
Why is the microbiome so important?
A balanced microbiome is the key to a healthy and vital dog's life. It is not only essential for the intestinal health of your four-legged friend, but also fulfills many other important functions.
Gut health
The microbiome supports digestion by breaking down certain nutrients from food and making them available to the body. It helps your dog to make optimal use of his food, giving him more energy and vitality. A balanced microbiome ensures:
- good digestion,
- active and healthy intestinal cells,
- as well as a strengthened immune system.
A strong immune system
Did youknow that around 70% [1] of the body's immune cells are located in the gut? A healthy microbiome supports these immune cells in their defense against pathogens. Even the microorganisms themselves make an important contribution by keeping harmful germs at bay.
Coat and skin health
A healthy gut also influences your dog's external appearance. Skin and coat benefit from a balanced microbiome, as this promotes the optimal utilization of nutrients and counteracts inflammation. If you want to support your dog's skin and coat health, we recommend our Veggies Skincare. These delicious snacks contain 10% carrot pomace and are therefore a source of fiber and beta-carotene, the precursor of the skin protection vitamin vitamin A.
How can I improve my dog's gut health?
Intestinal health starts with the right diet. With a high-quality dog food that is rich in prebiotics and nutrient-rich ingredients, you can strengthen your dog's intestinal flora and thus promote their overall health.
High-quality dog food
Use easily digestible ingredients and recipes that contain various fibers - thus prebiotics . Vegan dog snacks and food are an excellent choice as they are often rich in prebiotic fibers that can promote the microbiome.
Prebiotics for healthy gut bacteria
Foods rich in fiber such as chicory and psyllium husks, but also all other types of fiber, such as those found in vegetables, fruit and legumes, act as prebiotics and promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. These natural helpers support the balance in the microbiome and thus promote your dog's intestinal health.
Home remedies for healthy intestinal flora
You can effectively support your dog's intestinal health and improve their well-being with these simple home remedies:
- Pumpkin is rich in fiber and easy to digest. It supports bowel movement and can be helpful for digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhea.
- Flaxseed provides valuable fiber and omega-3 fatty acids that support both gut health and overall health.
- Apple cider vinegar, in small amounts, helps stimulate digestive juices and keep harmful bacteria in the gut at bay.
Avoid harmful substances
antibiotics, difficult-to-digest food or stress can severely disrupt your dog's microbiome and have a negative impact on intestinal health. Instead, you should focus on natural and gentle products, such as:
- high-fiber vegetables,
- fresh fruit,
- and balanced, easily digestible rations.
Our tip for your dog's gut health
A healthy gut is the basis for a long, happy and active dog's life. Our complete foods contain a variety of different prebiotics that feed your dog's microbiome. With the right nutrition, you not only strengthen your dog's immune system, but also ensure a better quality of life - because health starts in the gut!
Source
[1] Furness JB, Kunze WA, Clerc N. Nutrient tasting and signaling mechanisms in the gut. II. the intestine as a sensory organ: neural, endocrine, and immune responses. Am J Physiol. 1999;277:G922-8.
