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Why Petting a Dog Is Good for Your Gut

11th April 2025

The surprising connection between canine companionship and a healthier microbiome

As tails wag and paws patter at Goodwood ahead of our Goodwoof, a dog event like no other, Goodwood Health & Wellbeing celebrate more than just the joy our canine companions bring — we also explore the science behind how dogs might just be boosting our health in unexpected ways.

Recent research has been uncovering a fascinating link between dogs and the human gut microbiome — the vast ecosystem of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms that live in our digestive tract and play a vital role in everything from immunity to mood regulation.

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Doga (dog yoga) in the Studio at the Goodwood Kennels at the start of the first Goodwoof event..Picture date: Saturday May 28, 2022..Photograph by Christopher Ison ©.07544044177.chris@christopherison.com.www.christopherison.com..IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING IMAGE LICENCING FOR THIS PHOTOGRAPH: This image is supplied to the client under the terms previously agreed. No sales are permitted unless expressly agreed in writing by the photographer. Sharing with third parties is prohibited without the written permission of the photographer.

The Dog-Microbiome Connection

“Immunologists have known for many decades that growing up around animals results in a more robust immune system,” says Stephanie Moore, lead for Goodwood’s Gut Health Programme and clinical nutritionist. “But what’s now emerging is just how beneficial dogs can be for the diversity of the human gut microbiome — and that’s good news for our health and wellbeing.”

A 2017 study published in Microbiome found that households with dogs had higher microbial diversity, particularly in the gut microbiota of children. This is significant, as microbiome diversity is widely considered a key marker of good health, associated with reduced inflammation, stronger immunity and even improved mental wellbeing.

So, what’s going on?

“Dogs inevitably bring the outdoors in,” Stephanie explains. “From walks through woodland trails to rolling in the grass, they’re natural carriers of the many beneficial microbes that exist in soil and nature. When we share our homes — and let’s be honest, often our sofas — with dogs, we’re increasing our exposure to these natural microbes too.”

Research published in PLOS ONE indicated that dog ownership significantly modulated the composition of the gut microbiota in elderly participants, with a notable increase in gut beneficial bacterial families like Bifidobacteriaceae and Ruminococcaceae. ​

This exposure acts as a kind of daily ‘microbial training’ for our bodies. It challenges our immune system in beneficial ways and supports a broader range of microbes to flourish in our gut — particularly valuable in modern living where microbial exposure is becoming more limited, especially is you don’t live in the countryside.

More Than Muddy Paws

But the benefits don’t stop at the microbial level. As Stephanie points out, dogs also get us outside and moving. “Exercise is a powerful stimulator of microbial diversity,” she says. “Regular dog walks not only support digestion but also expose us to more airborne microbes in the natural environment — again supporting a healthy gut.”

And then there’s the emotional side of the equation. A study in Frontiers in Psychology demonstrated that the interaction between dog and human is an unbreakable bond. The study demonstrated that stroking a dog increases oxytocin — the so-called “love hormone” — in both human and your four-legged friend. This feel-good chemical has been shown to positively influence digestion and reduce stress, which in turn fosters a healthier microbiome.

Goodwood’s Love Affair with Dogs

At Goodwood, our connection to dogs is deeply rooted. It began with the third Duke of Richmond, who commissioned James Wyatt to design The Kennels — affectionately known as ‘the most luxurious dog house in the world’. Today, The Kennels provides the perfect backdrop for Goodwoof, created by the current Duke of Richmond to celebrate the profound bond between humans and dogs. The event brings together Goodwood’s rich canine heritage with contemporary insights into the health and wellbeing benefits of dog ownership.

Dogs are as much a part of the Goodwood story as racing, farming and food. And as we continue to explore the links between lifestyle and long-term health, it’s clear that dogs deserve a seat at the wellbeing table.

Stephanie sums it up beautifully, “When we bring a dog into our lives, we gain a loyal companion — but we’re also welcoming a walking, wagging dose of natural medicine. They nudge us outdoors, help us move, reduce our stress, and quite literally share their bugs with us. It might not sound glamorous, but it’s a vital part of building a resilient, balanced microbiome.”

Get involved in all things zen with your four legged friends at the Randox Health Studio at Goodwoof this year, where both you and your dogs can relax as you enjoy free sessions of dog yoga (DOGA), sound bathing, reiki and the bliss of dog massage.

Find out more about Goodwood Health & Wellbeing's Gut Health Programme.

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