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Join the Next Big Thing in Canine Health Research

We are absolutely thrilled to announce the launch of our groundbreaking breed-specific microbiome research study at BIOME9! This is your chance to be part of something truly exciting that could transform our understanding of canine health and longevity.

October 10, 2024 • 3 min read

Bushra Schuitemaker

Lead Microbiologist

Led by our Canine Microbiologist, Dr. Bushra Schuitemaker, our team is diving deep into the gut microbiomes of some of the UK’s most beloved dog breeds. We’re selecting participants from our BIOME9 Health Questionnaire, and your dog might just be one of the lucky few chosen for this incredible journey.

Why This Research Matters

This study is a key part of our Longevity1000 Project—a pioneering initiative that aims to unlock the secrets of long-term canine health. By harnessing the power of our cutting-edge InvisibleHealth® AI platform, we’ll be analysing the gut microbiomes of 1,000 dogs to discover how they influence health, happiness, and longevity.

As one of our specially selected participants, you’ll receive a research-level BIOME9 GutDiscovery® microbiome test for dogs and a comprehensive health report at a fraction of the regular price. Plus, we’re throwing in a FREE follow-up consultation with our experts to discuss your dog’s results and next steps. It’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss…

Why We’re Focusing on These Breeds

Bulldogs:
Bulldogs are a big deal at BIOME9! With 8.56% of our database filled with these charming pups, they’re central to our research. Bulldogs, especially French Bulldogs, often require caesarean births, which uniquely shapes their early microbiome and immune development. Plus, they’re prone to conditions like skin fold dermatitis and granulomatous colitis—issues closely tied to their gut microbiomes. By studying these bulldogs, we’re hoping to uncover vital insights that could help manage these health challenges and even pinpoint genetic factors behind them.

Retrievers:
Retrievers, including the ever-popular Goldens and Labradors, are absolute superstars—both in the UK and in our database, where they make up a whopping 10% of all entries! We’re already working with Retriever breeds in partnership with Guide Dogs UK and the Animal Cancer Trust, and your dog’s microbiome could play a crucial role in this game-changing research.

Terriers:
Terriers are small, feisty, and a whopping 13% of our database! These spirited dogs might be small in size, but they’re huge in personality—and we’re eager to understand why they often show lower microbiome diversity compared to larger breeds. We’re on a mission to support the health of these vibrant pups, and your terrier could be a key player in our study.

Poodles & Poodle-Crosses:
Poodles and their crosses are the reigning champs of our database, making up 15% of all entries! These dogs are adored for their intelligence, charm, and those gorgeous coats. But what really excites us is the research potential of their microbiomes. We can’t wait to see what we’ll discover with your Poodle or Poodle-cross in the mix.

Spaniels:
Spaniels are a versatile and popular breed, making up 8% of our database. From working dogs to show stars, Spaniels offer a fascinating look at how different lifestyles and types affect the microbiome. We’re eager to dive into the unique microbiomes of all Spaniels, and your dog could be the key to new discoveries.

Ready to Join the Revolution?

We’re looking for dogs of all ages, breeds, and health statuses to join us on this epic research adventure. Keep an eye on your inbox—if your dog has been selected, you’ll be one of the first to know! By participating, you’re not just learning about your dog’s gut health—you’re contributing to groundbreaking research that could change the future of canine wellness.

This is more than just a study—it’s a movement to support the health and happiness of dogs everywhere, starting with some of the UK’s most loved breeds and crosses. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be part of something truly special…

Ready to start your BIOME9 journey?

Order GutDiscovery® test kit & personalised health report

Frequently asked questions

The microbiome is the name given to the collection of microbes, mostly bacteria, but also fungi and protozoa, that exist within your dog’s gut. It is a diverse and complex microbial community which can directly affect health and wellbeing. We know that 90% of a human’s body cells are microbes, with only 10% being human cells – it’s just that human cells are markedly larger than the microbes. It’s similar for our four-legged friends. Testing the microbiome gives us an idea of exactly which bacteria are present in your dog’s gut and this can help indicate existing or future health problems.
A healthy diversity within the microbiome has been found to be an accurate indicator of overall health and wellbeing. If your dog appears healthy, but has an imbalance in their microbiome, then this could be an indicator of a potential future health issue. If your dog has any existing health complaints, then improving the health of their microbiome can help to improve immune system health and overall wellbeing, as well as improving disease symptoms.
Testing and treatment have the potential to help with a whole range of different health complaints. The immune system is very closely associated with the gut, so any imbalance in the microbiome can influence immune system health, overall vitality and wellbeing. Our supplement recommendations are also tailored to your individual dog, with specific ranges designed to help with gastrointestinal inflammation, joint problems, allergies and skin complaints, to name a few.
All you need to do is order a kit online and fill in our questionnaire about your dog and their general health. We will then send the kit out to you by post. You then just need to collect a sample and return it to us, again by post. Once the test is performed, we will email the results directly to you.
You do not need to get your vet’s permission to test, or talk to them about performing the test beforehand. We do recommend that you pass on a copy of your test results to your regular vets, as it may help them in understanding your pet’s current health, and any future complaints they may have.