In sickness and in health: the intestinal microbiome of dogs

Abstract

Studies on the interactions between the intestinal microbiome and its host have strengthened in the last decade. However, publications on this topic in dogs still need to be made available, reinforcing the need for new studies and literary data for consultation. Given this, this review aims to describe the intestinal microbiome and its interactions with the canine host, which can contribute to both health and morbid conditions in these animals. The definition of microbiome encompasses the collective genome of all microorganisms that live in a defined habitat (intestine). It is known that the dog’s intestinal microbiota is varied, composed of bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Under normal conditions, there is commensalism between some of these microorganisms and the host, which promotes critical physiological relationships and interactions that contribute to homeostasis and the consequent health of the animal. With this in mind, it is expected that the disturbances associated with the microbiome will result in imbalances in this commensal relationship and thus precipitate the development of diseases and aggravation of other diseases, thus characterizing intestinal dysbiosis.