Groundbreaking research reveals the true complexity of the canine microbiome
Groundbreaking Research Reveals The True Complexity Of The Canine Microbiome
1 week ago 
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Scientists from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute have uncovered just how unique the canine gut microbiome really is. Until now, understanding has primarily been based on humans, which has limited the ability to improve gut health in dogs.
The study, by Castillo-Fernandaz et al, published in Springer Nature’s Microbiome offers a fresh, canine-led perspective on the gut microbiome. It dramatically increases knowledge of this important community of microorganisms, which are essential for dogs’ metabolism, immunity and defense against pathogens.
Over 1,000 unique canine microbiomes discovered
Using data from the Mars Petcare archive, scientists carried out metagenomic sequencing on 501 faecal samples from 107 healthy dogs across the USA and Europe.
The process produced 5,753 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), consolidated into 1,031 distinct strains. Of those 982 are novel, 89 are new species and 10 are new genera.
This breakthrough reveals that the canine gut microbiome is truly unique. It cannot be likened to other species.
Many of the strains, discovered in the research, are known to produce key enzymes and metabolites that may influence the immune system or provide nutrition to cells in the gut lining.
The findings also offer fresh insights into species of bacteria, which were previously not known to be present in the canine gut. This includes a prevalence of CAZymes - enzymes that break down complex dietary fibres. Their presence has, for the first time, revealed the critical role of the gut microbiome in dogs’ digestion.
A powerful new tool for researchers worldwide
Findings from the study have been documented in The Waltham Catalogue for the Canine Gut Microbiome, including detailed functional descriptions of the novel microbiome strains. As well as providing a better understanding of the intricacy of these strains, this key resource also provides the highest resolution images of the healthy dog microbiome to date.
This is a huge step towards a future of personalised treatment for dogs. Treatment which, one day, could be tailored to dogs’ unique biological needs.
Dr Gregory Amos, Senior Research Manager at Waltham, reflects on the significance of this step: “With our new, critical understanding of what makes the canine gut microbiome unique, we have never been better equipped to develop solutions that improve the lives of dogs.”
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