Gut Microbiota Composition and Behaviour in Domestic Dogs (Canis familiaris)

This study will investigate the links between dog behaviour and gut microbiome content in dogs living in St John’s and surrounding areas. The temperament of each dog will be assessed using an online behavioural questionnaire, and additional information will be collected about the dog’s lifestyle, diet and medical history. The intern will take fecal samples from dogs of a range of personality types (including anxious and aggressive) to assess the bacterial content of the gut through DNA analysis. This will provide crucial information about how gut health may be linked to behaviour, and has the potential to improve clinical treatment of behavioural disorders in companion dogs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Carolyn Walsh;Dawn Bignell;Lourdes Peña-Castillo

Student:

Sarita Pellowe

Partner:

East Coast Canine Dog Training

Discipline:

Medicine

Sector:

Other services (except public administration)

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland