The aim of this article was to describe canine microbiome, which refers
to the collection of genomes from all the microorganisms in the particular
environment. Microbiota, sometimes used interchangeably, refers to specific
microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, that are found within
a given environment. Dogs are colonized by trillions of microbes living on and
within their body. The major phyla identified, are Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and
Fusobacteria, with some differences related to animal age. Proteobacteria and
Actinobacteria form a minor group in microbiome and metabolome in healthy
dogs. The largest community of microorganisms, predominately made up of
bacteria, can be found in the skin and within intestines. The gut microbiome
contributes to host metabolism, protects against pathogens, educates the
immune system and, through these basic functions, affects directly or indirectly
most physiologic functions of its host. Different factors cause changes in the
microbial communities. Canine microbiome is also shaped by long-term diet
and certain medications, particularly antibiotics. Many diseases are related
with disruptions of canine gut microbiome, referred as dysbiosis. Emerging
research has found correlations between microbiome and behavioral traits
such as aggression and sociability or work (explosive detection dogs, patrol
and narcotics detection dogs, and vapor wake dogs).