Is Your Dog’s Gut Healthy? 7 Signs It Might Not Be

When it comes to your dog’s health, the gut is ground zero. A balanced gut microbiome doesn’t just help with digestion—it affects your pup’s mood, skin, energy, immunity, and even the quality of their poop (yep, we’re going there).

But how can you tell if something’s off inside your dog’s belly? Here are seven signs your dog’s gut health may need a little extra love:

1. Their poop is inconsistent—or really messy

Every pet parent knows that what comes out says a lot about what’s going on inside. Runny, smelly, discolored, or irregular stools can indicate your dog’s gut isn’t functioning optimally.

“A healthy gut equals healthy digestion—and that shows up in your dog’s poop. If it’s foul-smelling, overly soft, or changes often, it’s a red flag.”
— Dr. Bart Dunsford, PETNUTRA’s resident companion animal nutritionist

2. They have chronic bad breath

Contrary to popular belief, stinky breath isn’t always a dental issue. The gut and mouth are directly connected. Digestive imbalances can create compounds that rise and make your dog’s kisses less than cute.

3. They scratch or lick excessively

Itchy skin, hot spots, or excessive licking may trace back to gut health. An imbalanced microbiome can trigger inflammation visible on your dog’s skin—even without dietary changes.

4. They’re low-energy or lethargic

The gut helps convert nutrients into usable energy. If your dog seems tired, sluggish, or not as peppy as usual, poor gut function might be to blame.

5. Their appetite is up… or down

Fluctuations in hunger can be linked to GLP-1—a hormone produced in the gut that helps regulate appetite. Sudden changes in your dog’s eating habits may be biological rather than behavioral.

6. They’ve had recurring infections or immune issues

70% of your dog’s immune system resides in the gut. Frequent colds, skin infections, or allergies may signal the need for digestive support.

7. Their coat looks dull or their eyes lack sparkle

Shiny coats and bright eyes reflect internal health. A lackluster coat or tired-looking eyes can indicate poor nutrient absorption due to gut issues.

So what can you do about it?

The first step is recognizing the signs. The second step is restoring balance. Look for a supplement that:

Supports the gut microbiome (prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics)
Promotes natural GLP-1 production for digestion and metabolism
Is made with clean, drug-free, plant-based ingredients

G-Loop is formulated to do all three—in one daily stick pack.

“We designed G-Loop to support the gut from multiple angles—not just digestion, but also energy, appetite, and immune health.”
— Rob Brewster, CEO, PETNUTRA

Think your dog’s belly might be out of balance?
Learn how our formula supports gut health, digestion, and vitality—naturally, every day.