Dog Microbiome Gut Health Test: How They Work, Best Kits & Benefits

Did you know the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in a dog’s overall health, and an imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to various health problems in dogs, such as digestive issues, allergies, and even behavioral problems? Fortunately, advances in veterinary medicine have made it possible to test a dog’s gut microbiome health using a dog microbiome gut health test. While some veterinarians may offer these tests, at-home testing kits are also available for dog owners. However, with the variety of testing kits available, it can be challenging to determine which ones are worth investing in and whether the results provide helpful, accurate information about a dog’s health. This article will explore the benefits of testing your dog’s gut health and every question in between. We also share the best dog microbiome gut health test kits available. Let’s dive right in!

Best Dog Gut Health Tests — At A Glance

What Is A Dog Gut Microbiome?

A gut microbiome refers to the community of microbes in your dog’s digestive system. The stomach, intestines, colon, and esophagus are all essential parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and contain microbes that play a crucial role in digestion. These microbes include beneficial and harmful bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms that help digest food, produce essential nutrients, and support the immune system. Collectively, these microorganisms are known as the gut microbiota or gut flora.

The Impact of Gut Microbiome Imbalance On Dogs

When a dog’s gut microbiome becomes imbalanced, it can lead to various health issues. These include:

Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is essential for your dog’s overall health and well-being.

What Is Dog Gut Microbiome Testing?

The dog gut microbiome health test is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that analyzes the bacteria and other microorganisms in a dog’s digestive system. This test evaluates key factors such as microbial diversity, the presence of beneficial and harmful bacteria, and potential pathogenic bacteria that may impact your dog’s health. By assessing the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria, a gut health test provides actionable insights that can guide personalized dietary, supplement, and lifestyle adjustments to support optimal digestion and immune function. Addressing gut imbalances can lead to improved digestion, better nutrient absorption, enhanced immunity, and an overall higher quality of life for your dog.

How Do Dog Microbiome Tests Work?

1. Sample collection – A stool sample is collected using a test kit provided by the company.
2. Lab analysis – The sample is sent to a laboratory, where scientists using next-generation DNA sequencing technology analyze the microbial composition, identifying bacteria types, diversity, and imbalances.
3. Results and insights – You receive a detailed report about your dog’s gut health, including bacterial diversity, potential imbalances, and diet and lifestyle adjustments recommendations.

What Can You Learn From Testing Your Dog’s Gut?

Here are some benefits and what you can learn from testing your dog’s microbiome.

For example, an imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. By identifying an imbalance in the gut microbiome early, you can take steps to correct the issue before it becomes more serious.

Why Test Your Dog’s Microbiome According to Science

At-Home Dog Gut Health Test vs. Vet’s Office Tests

At-home dog gut microbiome testing is relatively easy to administer and provides quick results. These tests are convenient and cost-effective, allowing you to obtain insights into your dog’s gut health without a trip to the veterinarian’s office. However, an at-home gut health test should not be used to self-diagnose potential health issues. After receiving your results, you must consult your veterinarian at your next appointment to discuss necessary steps for your dog’s health.

Veterinary office tests can be more expensive and time-consuming than at-home tests. Additionally, some dogs may experience stress or anxiety during a veterinary visit, which can affect test results due to temporary changes in gut bacteria. However, the main advantage of vet-administered tests is that they provide a more comprehensive health assessment, often including a physical examination, blood work, and other diagnostic tests that can offer a fuller picture of your dog’s overall health.

The choice between an at-home and a vet-administered test depends on your needs. It’s important to note that many veterinarians use the same microbiome testing methods as at-home kits—the primary difference is the brand or provider of the test.

Best At-Home Dog Gut Health Tests Kits

Here are the best dog gut microbiome test kits of this year.

Best Overall Dog Gut Health

Analysis: DNA sequencing

Personalization: Yes

Results: 2-3 weeks

Report: Yes

Pre-paid return envelope: Yes

Why we recommended it: Embark Vet is a reputable company known for their comprehensive dog DNA tests. However, they also offer a gut health test. Embark Vet gut health test wins our top pick because they use DNA sequencing to analyze the bacteria in the sample and compare it to our healthy dog reference set to determine if an imbalance is present. Embark Vet is powered by AnimalBiome, the world’s largest cat and dog microbiome sample database. They have gathered and examined over 30,000 fecal samples from domestic cats and dogs. From this pool of samples, they have compiled a set of samples that set their standards for healthy pets.

What sets it apart from competitors: By using AnimalBiome’s database, they were able to build a profile of the specific bacterial taxa (groups) they could expect to find in the gut microbiome of a healthy dog. They identified a “healthy reference set” consisting of 17 taxa that make up the core microbiome of dogs.

Key Features

Best For Vet Consultation

Analysis: DNA sequencing

Personalization: Yes

Results: 2 weeks

Report: Yes

Pre-paid return envelope: Yes

Why we recommended it: The DoggyBiome Gut Health Test is a comprehensive at-home kit designed to analyze a dog’s gut microbiome. It uses advanced DNA sequencing technology to detect over 5,000 types of bacteria in a dog’s stool, providing insights into their gut health. DoggyBiome compares your dog’s results with its healthy reference set, revealing whether it lacks essential bacterial groups. If so, that absence may result from antibiotic use, diet, illness, or other factors.

What sets it apart from competitors: A complimentary 15-minute consultation with a microbiome expert to review your dog’s results. This test kit includes everything you need to collect a stool sample from your dog and send it back to us for assessment.

Key Features

Best Premium For A More In-Depth Gut Check

Analysis: DNA sequencing

Personalization: Yes

Results: 2 weeks

Report: Yes

Pre-paid return envelope: Yes

Why we recommended it: The Innovative Pet Lab Comprehensive Gut Check for Dogs is a premium at-home microbiome testing kit designed to evaluate a dog’s gut health by analyzing three key areas. Here’s a detailed overview of the test:

1. Digestion and detox: This part of the test measures pancreatic elastase and beta-glucuronidase to assess how well your dog is digesting food and if there is optimal detox activity.
2. Leaky gut: It evaluates zonulin and antigliadin IgA levels to identify the health of the intestinal lining and reactions to gluten.
3. Inflammation & Immunity: The test measures calprotectin and secretory IgA to identify inflammation and assess immune protection in the digestive process.

What sets it apart from competitors: The test examines six biomarkers to provide in-depth insights into your dog’s digestive health and behavior. This test is ideal for pets with chronic GI issues, multiple symptoms, or undiagnosed conditions, as it helps identify root causes of various symptoms including: diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, parasites, possible IBD, food intolerances, environmental sensititivtes, weight loss, IBS symptoms, skin issues, excessive scratching and licking, bad breath, and behavior issues —all in one test.

Key Features

How Much Does Dog Microbiome Testing Cost?

The cost of dog microbiome testing can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of test, the laboratory conducting the analysis, and the location. Generally, at-home dog microbiome testing kits cost anywhere from $35 to $100, depending on the brand and the features included in the kit. On the other hand, veterinary clinics may offer more comprehensive testing that includes a physical exam, blood work, other diagnostic tests, and gut microbiome testing. These tests can cost several hundred dollars or more, depending on the specific tests performed and the clinic’s location.

Alternatives To At-Home Microbiome Tests

At-home dog microbiome tests are a convenient way to assess the health of a dog’s gut microbiome. However, alternative ways to monitor the health of a dog’s gut may be more suitable for some pet owners.

The Bottom Line

Testing your dog’s gut health is a simple yet effective way to assess its overall health and well-being. Identifying potential health issues early can prevent more severe health problems from developing. If you are considering using a dog microbiome gut health test, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine which test is best for your dog. Additionally, it is necessary to follow the test kit manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Finally, always work with your veterinarian to interpret the test results and create a plan for improving your dog’s gut health. Pet insurance might cover the cost of this kit.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

1. Effects of Diet on the Gut Microbiome of the Dog
2. Characterization of the Fecal & Mucosa-Associated Microbiota in Dogs
3. Normal Gut Microbiota Modulates Brain Development & Behavior
4. The Fecal Microbiome in Dogs with Acute Diarrhea & Idiopathic Inflammatory Bowel Disease
5. The Role of the Canine Gut Microbiome and Metabolome in Health & Gastrointestinal Disease