August 18, 2021
Did you know that the digestive system of your dog is actually influencing its behaviour? This article explains how poor gut health triggers feelings of fear and anxiety in dogs, contributing to behaviour problems.
I’m sure you will have heard the expression ‘You are what you eat’. This is absolutely true, and the exact same can be said for your dog.
This article outlines the scientific research proving a link between dogs' emotions and their digestive tract (gut), and therefore how choosing a good quality, natural diet can help reduce and prevent problem behaviours.
We all love our dogs and want to do the best we can for them, right? New research conducted on both humans and animals is providing more information than ever, enabling us to look after, not only our dogs physical health, but their mental health too.
According to the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour, 70% of dog behaviour problems are related to feelings of anxiety and fear. You may be surprised to learn that even aggression is actually a symptom of a dog struggling to control its fear in a given situation.
A recent study at the University of California concluded that there is a correlation between gut bacteria and emotional regulation. The evidence suggests that the gut and brain are constantly communicating, influencing mood and behaviour. Indicators are that poor gut health can lead to psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Let’s get into the science of it!
The Enteric Nervous System (ENS) is located in the gut, and this is in constant communication with the emotional aspects of the Central Nervous System (located in the spinal cord and brain). When your dog consumes food, the ENS sends chemical messages to the CNS, altering your dog's emotional state. The chemical messages being sent are dependent on the strains of bacteria present in the gut. Certain bacteria produce chemicals that have a calming effect, whilst others trigger feelings of depression and anxiety.
‘Go with your gut.’
‘What is your gut telling you?’
Through the ages we have known that emotions are somehow linked to our gut, but in recent times we have overlooked this connection, and in the process we have lost the view of the body as a collection of organs, all of which are constantly providing feedback to each other.
Foods high in sugar and trans fats contain molecules called lipopolysaccharides which are toxic to the body. Lipopolysaccharides destroy the brain cells that make the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine (often called the ‘happiness’ hormones). Feeding such a diet will have dramatic effects on mood and temperament, and ultimately can lead to behaviour problems.
The following behaviour problems have been shown to have links to poor gut health:
- Separation anxiety
- Aggression
- Hyperactivity
- Obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Self-mutilation
If your dog exhibits any of these behaviour problems, it may be gut check time!
Good gut health is not only linked to emotional wellbeing, as processed and grain-based foods are also known to be a cause of ‘leaky gut syndrome’ in dogs. This occurs when the spaces between the cells lining the gut expand, causing gaps to appear. The contents of the gut is then able to enter the bloodstream, causing toxicity. The body’s immune response to this is to trigger high levels of inflammation. Over time, high levels of inflammation impacts the physical health of your dog.
The gut is the foundation of good health and it is the largest immune organ in the body, and your dog's gut is no exception! Not only does a healthy gut prevent toxins and bacteria entering the bloodstream, but also ensures all the valuable nutrients are absorbed and utilised.
The best thing you can do is take a holistic approach to your dog's health and wellbeing, from the inside out. Removing processed foods, and replacing with fresh, natural alternatives like Premi-Yum that support a healthy gut biome, will go a long way to ensuring a long and happy life with your four-legged best friend.
Claire Oats
Specialist Animal Kinesiologist B.Sc, Dip Kin
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About the author
Claire Oats is a Specialist Animal Kinesiologist and Canine Behaviourist from Perth. Claire has worked with dogs for the last 25 years and specialises in resolving behaviour problems using Kinesiology techniques to remove physiological, neurological and emotional stress.
Please note: Claire's blog is general advice only. For further information on this topic please consult your veterinarian.
