Bacterias

Absiella dolichum is a gut bacterium that is still relatively new and less well established in veterinary microbiome research. It may be linked to inflammatory or imbalanced gut patterns when found at higher levels. Because it is not one of the classic gut pathogens, its value is mainly in showing a shift in the wider microbial environment rather than pointing to one specific disease. Higher levels can be relevant when there are signs of gut irritation, altered stool quality, mucus in the stool, or other markers of inflammation.

Actinobacteria is a major group of bacteria in the canine gut microbiome. This group includes several bacteria involved in digestion, nutrient processing, and maintaining a balanced gut environment. Some Actinobacteria, such as Bifidobacterium species, are often linked to beneficial gut functions. Low or high levels may reflect changes in microbial balance, diet, or gut environment and should be interpreted together with the full microbiome profile.

Allobaculum stercoricanis is a gut bacterium commonly found in dogs. It is involved in microbial fermentation, where gut bacteria break down parts of the diet and produce substances such as lactate and butyrate that can help support the intestinal environment. Its levels can provide insight into normal digestive fermentation, stool quality, and how the gut microbiome responds to diet. Changes in Allobaculum stercoricanis may reflect shifts in diet, fat intake, fermentation activity, or overall gut balance.

Bacteroides spp. are a key group of bacteria in the human gut microbiome, essential for breaking down complex carbohydrates and producing short-chain fatty acids. These functions support colon health, help regulate the immune system, and protect against harmful pathogens.

Bacteroides fragilis is a bacterium that can live in the intestinal tract and is part of the broader Bacteroides group. Bacteroides bacteria are involved in breaking down complex carbohydrates and supporting normal gut metabolism. Bacteroides fragilis is useful to assess because it can reflect how well the gut microbiome supports digestion and microbial balance. In balanced levels, it can be part of a normal gut environment, while changes may be linked to shifts in digestion, stool quality, or gut inflammation patterns.

Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron is a gut bacterium known for helping break down complex carbohydrates and fibre like substances that the dog cannot digest on its own. This makes it important for nutrient processing and for producing compounds that support the gut environment. The level of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron can provide insight into how the microbiome handles dietary fibre and carbohydrate fermentation. Changes in its level can reflect shifts in diet, digestion, and the balance between different carbohydrate processing bacteria.

Bacteroides uniformis is a gut bacterium within the Bacteroides group. It is involved in processing dietary carbohydrates and supporting the normal breakdown of nutrients in the intestine. Compared with some other Bacteroides species, Bacteroides uniformis can add detail about the diversity of carbohydrate processing bacteria in the gut. Balanced levels can support a stable gut environment, while changes may reflect shifts in diet, fibre intake, or overall microbiome composition.

Bacteroidetes is a major group of bacteria in the canine gut microbiome. This group includes bacteria that help break down dietary fibre and complex carbohydrates, supporting digestion and nutrient processing. Bacteroidetes can also contribute to the production of beneficial compounds that support the gut environment. Low or high levels may reflect changes in diet, digestion, or overall microbial balance.

Bifidobacterium is a key genus of beneficial bacteria that primarily inhabit the human gastrointestinal tract. They play an important role in supporting digestion, enhancing immune function, producing essential vitamins, and combating harmful microbes. Maintaining a balanced level of Bifidobacterium is essential for a healthy gut microbiome.

Blautia hansenii is a gut bacterium that belongs to the Blautia group. It is involved in microbial fermentation, where gut bacteria break down dietary components and produce compounds such as short chain fatty acids. These compounds can help support the intestinal lining and overall gut environment. Blautia hansenii levels can provide insight into fibre fermentation, bacterial balance, and the gut microbiome’s ability to produce supportive metabolites.

Blautia obeum is a gut bacterium that belongs to the Blautia group. It is involved in microbial fermentation, where gut bacteria break down dietary components and produce substances that can support the intestinal environment. Blautia obeum levels can provide insight into fibre fermentation, gut bacterial balance, and the microbiome’s ability to produce compounds that support the gut lining. Changes in its level may reflect shifts in diet, fibre intake, or overall microbial balance.

Blautia producta is a gut bacterium within the Blautia group and is involved in the fermentation of dietary components. It is especially relevant because Blautia species are linked to the production of short chain fatty acids, which are compounds that help support the gut lining and intestinal environment. Blautia producta levels can provide insight into the microbiome’s capacity for fermentation and gut barrier support. Changes in its level may reflect shifts in fibre intake, digestive function, or the balance of bacteria involved in producing supportive gut metabolites.

Blautia wexlerae is a gut bacterium within the Blautia group and is involved in microbial fermentation. It is linked to the production of metabolites, which are small substances made when gut bacteria break down nutrients. These metabolites can help support the gut environment and communication between the microbiome and the intestinal lining. Blautia wexlerae levels can provide insight into how the gut microbiome responds to diet, fibre intake, and changes in bacterial balance.

Campylobacter coli is a bacterium that can occur in the intestinal tract of dogs and other animals. Testing for this marker can help identify Campylobacter species that may be associated with digestive signs such as diarrhoea, altered stool quality, or gastrointestinal discomfort. Detection does not always mean disease, as some animals may carry Campylobacter species without obvious symptoms. Because some Campylobacter species can have zoonotic potential, the result should be interpreted together with clinical signs, hygiene considerations, the full microbiome profile, and veterinary guidance.

Campylobacter jejuni is a bacterium that can be found in the gastrointestinal tract of dogs and other animals. Testing for this marker can help identify bacteria that may contribute to digestive signs such as diarrhoea, soft stool, mucus in the stool, abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, or lethargy. Some dogs may carry Campylobacter jejuni without obvious symptoms. Because it can have zoonotic potential, the result should be interpreted together with clinical signs, hygiene considerations, the full microbiome profile, and veterinary guidance.

Campylobacter upsaliensis is a Campylobacter species that can be found in dogs and may be part of the intestinal microbial environment. Testing for this marker can help identify bacteria that may be associated with digestive signs such as diarrhoea, soft stool, or gastrointestinal discomfort. Some dogs may carry Campylobacter upsaliensis without symptoms. Its relevance depends on the amount detected, the dog’s symptoms, the full microbiome profile, and veterinary guidance.

Clostridioides difficile is a bacterium that can be present in the intestinal tract and may produce toxins, which are harmful substances that can irritate or damage the gut lining, in certain situations. Testing for this marker can help identify bacteria that may be relevant when there are signs of diarrhoea, gut inflammation, or disrupted microbiome balance. Presence alone does not always mean disease, especially without toxin related findings or symptoms. The result should be interpreted together with clinical signs, toxin testing when available, the full microbiome profile, and veterinary guidance.

Clostridium is a genus of bacteria that includes species naturally present in the human gut as well as others that can cause illness. These bacteria are notable for their ability to form spores, allowing them to survive in harsh environments. While some Clostridium species contribute to gut health, others, such as Clostridium difficile, can cause serious infections, particularly after antibiotic use disrupts the normal gut flora.

Clostridium perfringens is a bacterium commonly found in the canine intestine. Testing for this marker can help identify increased levels of a bacterium that may be part of the normal gut flora, but where some strains can produce toxins, which are harmful substances that may irritate or damage the gut lining. When clinically relevant, elevated levels may be associated with diarrhoea, mucus in the stool, increased stool frequency, or signs of large bowel irritation. The result should be interpreted together with symptoms, toxin testing when available, the full microbiome profile, and veterinary guidance.

Collinsella species refers to a group of gut bacteria involved in carbohydrate processing and metabolic activity in the intestine. These bacteria can be part of the normal gut microbiome, but changes in their levels can reflect shifts in how the microbiome handles energy from food, especially carbohydrates. Collinsella levels can provide insight into gut metabolic balance and may be relevant when there are changes in digestion, stool quality, gas production, or the overall bacterial balance of the gut.

Desulfovibrio piger is a sulfate reducing bacterium, meaning it can use sulfur containing compounds during fermentation in the gut. This process can produce hydrogen sulfide, a gas that in higher amounts may irritate the gut lining and contribute to strong smelling gas or stool. Higher levels of Desulfovibrio piger can be linked to altered fermentation, gut irritation, and inflammatory patterns. This marker is useful because it gives insight into sulfur related fermentation and bacteria that may affect the intestinal lining.

Enterobacter is a genus of bacteria commonly found in the human gut. Usually harmless, these bacteria are part of the natural gut flora and contribute to digestive health. However, an overgrowth of Enterobacter can signal or lead to health problems. Monitoring Enterobacter levels in stool can offer important insights into gut health and aid in diagnosing various conditions.

Enterococcus is a type of bacteria that naturally resides in the human intestines as part of the normal gut flora. It supports aspects of gut health, but an overgrowth in stool can signal microbial imbalance or possible infection, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Enterococcus cecorum is a bacterium that can be found in the intestinal tract of animals. In dogs, it is less commonly discussed than Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium, but it can still give information about changes in the gut bacterial community. Higher levels may reflect a shift in the intestinal environment, especially when digestion, appetite, or stool quality has changed. This marker is useful because it adds detail to the Enterococcus pattern rather than repeating the same information as the other Enterococcus species.

Enterococcus faecalis is a bacterium that can normally be found in the intestines of dogs. In balanced amounts, it may be part of a healthy gut microbiome. This marker is mainly relevant because Enterococcus faecalis can increase when the normal bacterial balance is disturbed, especially after digestive stress, diet changes, or shifts in the gut environment. Higher levels can be linked to softer stool, gas, mucus in the stool, or changes in stool quality. Its presence alone does not mean disease, but it can show that the gut bacterial balance has shifted.

Enterococcus faecium is a bacterium that can occur in the intestines and may be part of the normal gut microbiome. Compared with Enterococcus faecalis, this species is often more relevant as an opportunistic bacterium, meaning it becomes more important when the gut environment or immune defence is under pressure. Higher levels can point to a shift toward bacteria that tolerate a disturbed gut environment. This can be seen with changes in stool quality, gas, or other signs of digestive imbalance, but the result is best understood as part of the broader bacterial pattern.

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless and support digestion and vitamin production, certain types can cause foodborne illness and gastrointestinal infections.

Escherichia coli, often called E. coli, is a bacterium that can normally live in the intestines. Many E. coli strains are harmless and part of the gut microbiome, while some strains can contribute to irritation or infection if the balance is disrupted. This marker is useful because E. coli can show whether the gut environment is shifting toward bacteria that grow well during inflammation or reduced microbial stability. Higher levels may be seen with diarrhoea, soft stool, abdominal discomfort, gas, or other digestive changes.

Escherichia coli Biovare is a distinct subspecies of E. coli that is not typically abundant in a healthy human intestine. It includes various forms, such as hemolytic, mucoid, and lactose-negative types. Elevated levels—especially in the presence of alkaline pH and low beneficial E. coli—may suggest weakened mucosal immunity, often linked to reduced secretory IgA production.

Faecalibacterium prausnitzii is a beneficial gut bacterium strongly linked to the production of butyrate, a substance that helps nourish and support the intestinal lining. It is often associated with gut barrier support, balanced immune activity, and a more stable intestinal environment. Lower levels can reflect reduced microbial support for the gut lining and may be seen in patterns of gut imbalance or inflammation. Faecalibacterium prausnitzii levels can provide insight into the microbiome’s ability to support intestinal health and resilience.

Firmicutes is a major bacterial group in the canine gut microbiome. Many bacteria within this group are involved in fermentation and the production of short chain fatty acids, which help support the intestinal barrier, gut environment, and energy metabolism. Low or high levels may reflect changes in diet, microbial diversity, inflammation, or overall gut balance.

Fusobacteria is a bacterial group commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract of carnivorous animals, including dogs. Some Fusobacteria can be part of a normal canine gut microbiome and may be linked to protein fermentation. Higher levels may reflect changes in diet, stool composition, protein breakdown, or microbial balance and should be interpreted together with other gut markers.

Fusobacterium mortiferum is an anaerobic gut bacterium, meaning it grows in low oxygen environments such as the intestine. It is mainly relevant because it can reflect how protein rich food residues are broken down and fermented in the gut. Higher levels can be linked to a gut environment where protein fermentation is more active, which may contribute to stronger stool odour, gas, or changes in stool quality. Fusobacterium mortiferum levels can therefore provide insight into how the canine gut microbiome is processing protein residues.

Fusobacterium nucleatum is a bacterium that can occur on mucosal surfaces, including the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. This makes it different from the other Fusobacterium markers, because it can give insight into bacteria linked to both oral and gut microbial patterns. Higher levels may be relevant when there are signs such as bad breath, oral health issues, gut irritation, mucus in the stool, or changes in stool quality. Fusobacterium nucleatum levels can help show whether mucosal bacteria from areas such as the mouth and gut lining are more prominent in the microbiome profile.

Fusobacterium perfoetens is a gut bacterium linked to the breakdown and fermentation of protein rich and nitrogen containing material in the intestine. It is especially relevant for understanding fermentation patterns that may affect stool odour and gas production. Higher levels can be linked to stronger smelling stool, gas, altered stool quality, or a gut environment where protein breakdown products are more prominent. Fusobacterium perfoetens levels can therefore give insight into odour related fermentation in the canine gut.

Fusobacterium varium is a gut bacterium that can add detail to the overall Fusobacterium pattern in the canine microbiome. While some Fusobacterium species are more closely linked to odour or mucosal surfaces, Fusobacterium varium is useful for showing whether this group of protein fermenting bacteria is more broadly represented in the gut. Changes in its level can be linked to shifts in stool quality, gut irritation, protein fermentation, or the overall balance of gut bacteria. Fusobacterium varium levels can therefore help show whether the Fusobacterium pattern is isolated or part of a wider microbial shift.

Hafnia is a genus of bacteria commonly found in the intestinal tract and considered part of the normal gut flora. While typically harmless, its presence in stool may reflect changes in gut microbiota or signal potential digestive imbalances.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that colonizes the stomach lining and is known for its role in gastrointestinal disorders. It is commonly associated with peptic ulcers, chronic gastritis, and an increased risk of stomach cancer. Its ability to thrive in the stomach’s acidic environment makes it a key factor in long-term digestive health.

Helicobacter species refers to a group of bacteria that can live in the gastrointestinal tract, especially the stomach. Many dogs can carry Helicobacter species without clear symptoms, but higher levels or irritation of the stomach lining can be linked to vomiting, abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, weight changes, or signs of upper digestive irritation. This marker is useful because it gives insight into the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract, not only the lower gut.

IgG antibodies are produced later in the immune response and usually reflect past exposure to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. They tend to appear 2–3 weeks after infection onset and can remain detectable for months or years. A positive IgG result does not necessarily indicate an active infection but shows that the immune system has previously encountered the pathogen. In combination with IgM, IgG testing helps differentiate between acute, recent, and past infections.

IgM antibodies are the first type of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to an acute infection. When IgM against Mycoplasma pneumoniae is present, it typically indicates a recent or ongoing infection. These antibodies appear within 1–2 weeks of exposure and usually decline after a few months. Testing for IgM is useful in identifying the early phase of a Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, especially in symptomatic individuals.

Klebsiella is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria present in environments such as soil, water, and the human gut. Certain species, including Klebsiella pneumoniae, can cause serious infections in the lungs, bloodstream, urinary tract, and wounds. These bacteria are notable for their resistance to many antibiotics, making them a significant challenge in healthcare settings.

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a bacterium that can be found in the gut and other parts of the body. In balanced amounts, it may be present without causing problems, but higher levels can point to opportunistic overgrowth, meaning that the bacterium has gained more space when the normal bacterial balance is weakened. This marker is useful because Klebsiella pneumoniae can reflect a shift toward bacteria that may grow when the gut microbiome is less balanced, especially when combined with changes in stool quality, gas, diarrhoea, or signs of digestive irritation.

Lactobacillus is a beneficial bacterium commonly found in the gut and in certain fermented foods. It plays a vital role in supporting digestive health, enhancing nutrient absorption, and maintaining a balanced immune system.

Megamonas funiformis is a gut bacterium involved in the fermentation of carbohydrates and other dietary components. It can contribute to the production of substances formed when gut bacteria break down food residues. Megamonas funiformis levels can provide insight into how active carbohydrate fermentation is in the gut. Changes in its levels may be relevant when there are shifts in stool quality, gas production, diet, or the overall balance of fermenting bacteria.

Peptoclostridium species refers to a group of bacteria that can live in the intestinal tract. These bacteria are involved in the breakdown of proteins and other nutrients by gut microbes. This process is called fermentation and can be normal, but if the balance shifts, it may contribute to gas, stronger stool odour, stool changes, or irritation in the gut. This marker is useful because it gives insight into protein fermentation and how food residues are being processed by the gut microbiome.

Phocaeicola vulgatus, previously classified within the Bacteroides group, is a gut bacterium involved in the breakdown of dietary components and microbial metabolism. It can be part of the normal intestinal microbiome, but its level helps show how the Bacteroides related community is structured. This marker is useful because it adds detail about carbohydrate and nutrient processing in the gut. Changes may reflect shifts in diet, stool quality, or the balance between different gut bacteria.

Prevotella copri is a gut bacterium involved in breaking down fibre, plant based food components, and complex carbohydrates. Its levels can give insight into how much the gut microbiome is adapted to processing fibre rich parts of the diet. Higher levels can reflect stronger carbohydrate and fibre fermentation, while low levels may suggest that this type of fermentation is less prominent. Prevotella copri is useful because it helps show whether the gut microbiome is more geared toward fibre and carbohydrate breakdown, which can influence stool quality, gas production, and overall gut balance.

Proteobacteria is a broad bacterial group that includes both normal gut bacteria and more opportunistic species. In the gut microbiome, increased Proteobacteria levels can sometimes reflect microbial imbalance, intestinal stress, inflammation, or a shift toward less stable gut conditions. This marker is useful for understanding the overall balance of the microbiome rather than diagnosing a specific condition on its own.

Proteus is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria commonly linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially in individuals with prolonged catheter use or weakened immune systems. They can also cause wound infections and, less frequently, respiratory infections. Proteus species are notable for their resistance to multiple antibiotics, which can make treatment more difficult.

Pseudomonas in stool refers to the presence of bacteria from the Pseudomonas genus, most commonly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in the gastrointestinal tract. While not typically a common gut inhabitant, it can cause infection or overgrowth, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Its detection may indicate an imbalance in gut microbiota or an underlying condition, especially if gastrointestinal symptoms are present.

Romboutsia sedimentorum is a gut bacterium involved in the breakdown and processing of different food residues in the intestine. Unlike markers that mainly reflect fibre or protein fermentation, Romboutsia sedimentorum can provide broader insight into how the gut microbiome handles a mixed diet. Its levels can help show whether the microbiome is actively processing nutrients in a balanced way, which may be reflected in digestion, stool quality, gas production, or overall gut balance.

Ruminococcus species refers to a group of gut bacteria that help break down fibre and resistant starch, which are parts of food that the dog cannot fully digest on its own. This makes them important for fibre fermentation, stool formation, and the production of substances that support the intestinal lining. Balanced Ruminococcus levels can indicate that the gut microbiome is helping process harder to digest carbohydrates. Changes in this group may reflect shifts in fibre intake, stool consistency, gas production, or overall gut balance.

Salmonella enterica is a bacterium that can cause gastrointestinal infection in dogs and other animals. Testing for this marker can help identify bacteria that may be associated with diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, reduced appetite, low energy or lethargy. Some dogs can carry Salmonella without obvious signs. Because Salmonella can be transmitted between animals and humans, the result should be interpreted together with clinical signs, hygiene measures, exposure history, and veterinary guidance.

Serratia is a type of bacteria commonly found in the environment and sometimes in the human intestinal tract. While usually harmless in healthy individuals, its presence in stool may be concerning for those with certain health conditions. Detection in stool tests can signal possible gut flora imbalances or infections.

Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium most often associated with the skin and mucous membranes, but it can sometimes appear in the gastrointestinal tract. It is not usually thought of as a core gut bacterium, so its presence in a gut profile can give information about a broader shift in the dog’s microbial environment. Higher levels may be linked to irritation, inflammation, immune stress, or transfer from skin and mucosal surfaces. This marker is useful because it connects gut findings with the wider microbial balance of the body.

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a bacterium commonly found on the skin and mucous membranes of dogs. Unlike Staphylococcus aureus, this species is especially associated with dogs and is often discussed in relation to skin, ear, and wound health. When it appears in a gut microbiome profile, it may reflect transfer from the dog’s own skin or mucosal surfaces, or a broader change in microbial balance. This marker is useful because it adds a dog specific view of Staphylococcus related bacteria rather than only showing general gut bacteria.

Streptococcus Group A (Streptococcus pyogenes) is a type of bacteria responsible for a variety of infections, ranging from mild skin conditions and strep throat to serious illnesses like scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, and necrotizing fasciitis. Detecting Group A Streptococcus is essential for timely and accurate diagnosis, allowing for prompt treatment to avoid complications.

Streptococcus species refers to a group of related bacteria that can live in several areas of the body, including the mouth, throat, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. Some species can be part of the normal microbial environment, while others can become more noticeable when bacterial balance changes. This marker is useful because Streptococcus species can connect gut findings with oral health, throat and mucosal bacteria, and inflammatory patterns. Changes in this group may be seen alongside digestive changes, oral health issues, or signs of irritation.

Sutterella species refers to a group of bacteria that can live in the intestinal tract and interact closely with the gut lining. These bacteria are sometimes discussed in relation to gut irritation, immune activity, and changes in the intestinal environment. Higher levels can be linked to altered stool quality, digestive sensitivity, or inflammatory patterns in the gut. This marker is useful because it gives insight into bacteria that may reflect how the gut lining and immune system are interacting with the microbiome.

Verrucomicrobia is a bacterial group that includes species associated with the intestinal mucus layer and gut barrier function. This group may reflect activity near the gut lining and interactions between bacteria and the intestinal mucosa. Changes in Verrucomicrobia levels may be influenced by diet, mucus turnover, gut environment, and overall microbiome balance.

Yersinia enterocolitica is a bacterium that can affect the gastrointestinal tract. Testing for this marker can help identify bacteria that may be associated with digestive signs such as diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, or changes in stool quality. Its clinical significance can vary, and detection does not always mean disease. Because Yersinia enterocolitica may have zoonotic relevance, the result should be interpreted together with symptoms, exposure history, hygiene considerations, and veterinary guidance.