Does your dog have leaky gut syndrome?

A healthy gut is crucial for your dog's overall well-being. It plays a vital role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and even influences their mood and behaviour. When the gut becomes imbalanced or compromised, it can lead to leaky gut syndrome. Leaky gut syndrome, also known as increased intestinal permeability, is a condition characterized by a compromised intestinal barrier. Normally, the lining of the small intestine acts as a selective barrier, allowing nutrients to be absorbed while preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. In the case of leaky gut syndrome, the intestinal lining becomes more permeable than usual, allowing larger particles, such as undigested food particles, toxins, and bacteria, to pass through the intestinal wall and enter the bloodstream. In dogs, this can lead to a range of health issues. In this article, we will explore the top 4 symptoms of an unhealthy gut in dogs and discuss holistic approaches to promote gut health and restore balance.

1. Digestive Issues

The most obvious cause of an unhealthy gut is any noticeable digestive concerns. This includes:

• Chronic diarrhea or loose stools

• Constipation or infrequent bowel movements

• Excessive flatulence or bloating

• Vomiting or regurgitation

• Loss of appetite or decreased food intake

2. Skin and Coat Problems

An unhealthy gut can manifest in various skin and coat issues in dogs. Remember that the gut and skin are closely linked through something called the gut-skin axis. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms:

• Itchy skin or excessive scratching

• Redness, inflammation, or hot spots

• Dull coat or excessive shedding

• Allergic reactions, such as hives or rashes

• Recurrent ear or paw infections

3. Immune System Dysfunction

The gut plays a crucial role in the immune system, so when a dog has leaky gut, immune-related symptoms may arise:

• Frequent infections, including respiratory or urinary tract infections

• Allergies or increased sensitivity to certain foods or environmental factors

• Sluggish recovery from illnesses or injuries

• Autoimmune disorders or excessive inflammation

4. Behavioural Changes

This symptom of an unhealthy gut often gets overlooked but almost every dog with leaky gut syndrome will have some level of behavioural change. This includes:

• Anxiety, restlessness, or irritability

• Changes in appetite or food preferences

• Decreased energy levels or lethargy

• Aggression or mood swings

If you suspect your dog has leaky gut syndrome, there are many ways to help your dog by reducing inflammation and supporting a healthy microbiome and cellular healing. This could include:

Probiotics and Prebiotics:

Introducing beneficial bacteria through probiotics and prebiotics can help restore balance in the gut. Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote the growth of good bacteria, while prebiotics provide nourishment for these beneficial microbes. It’s important to consult with an expert to determine what probiotics are best for your dog and at what dosage.

Balanced Diet:

Feeding your pup a balanced and species-appropriate diet is essential for gut health. Focus on high-quality, whole foods that are easily digestible and free from artificial additives or fillers. Consider incorporating gut-friendly ingredients like bone broth, fermented foods, and fiber-rich vegetables to support digestion and nourish the gut. If your dog is currently fed kibble and you are interested in switching them to a raw whole-food diet, we highly recommend discussing this change with a certified canine nutritionist. This is a process that needs to be done slowly and correctly to ensure that your dog has time to adjust and is getting all the nutrients they need as stipulated by AFFCO.

Herbal Supplements:

Certain herbs can promote gut health and soothe inflammation. Chamomile, slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root are known for their anti-inflammatory and gut-soothing properties. Herbs can be an excellent addition if more support is needed.

Stress Management:

Stress can negatively impact the gut, so implementing stress reduction techniques is crucial for gut health. Provide a calm and stable environment for your dog, offer regular exercise (within their limits of course), engage in bonding activities and consider relaxation techniques like massage or aromatherapy.

Environmental Management:

Toxins and chemicals in the environment can disrupt gut health. Minimize exposure to these as best you can by providing filtered water, using stainless steel dishes, washing the water dish daily, minimizing plastic exposure and being aware of surroundings when on walks. Common gut offenders include BPA, phthalates PCBs, pesticides, heavy metals (be wary of large seafood like tuna and halibut) and air pollution.