We all know that fiber is an important component of gut health in humans, and the same is true for our dogs.

But what, exactly, is fiber?

Fiber is either soluble or insoluble. Soluble fiber, a prebiotic, passes through the digestive tract to the colon, where it feeds the probiotics in your dog’s gut, which then produce health-promoting postbiotics. This collaboration supports a healthy gut microbiome and a well-functioning digestive system. Foods with this type of fiber include oatmeal, beans, apples and blueberries.

Insoluble fiber absorbs water and keeps waste moving through the intestines, helps prevent constipation, and some types can also encourage the growth of beneficial gut microbes. Insoluble fiber is found in a variety of plant-based foods, including whole grains, most fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and legumes.

Both types of fiber are essential to the dog’s microbiome — but remember that just as every dog is unique, so is their microbiome, which means that you may need to adjust your dog’s extra dietary fiber as you go along.

But a healthy microbiome requires more than just fiber. Another equally important element are probiotics, those powerful living organisms that boost your dog’s healthy gut bacteria. Today, many high-quality dry dog foods contain probiotics: the Guaranteed Analysis label will list the specific type of probiotic the food contains. You can also supplement your dog’s diet with soft treats that contain probiotics, as well as probiotic capsules or powders.

Make sure you’re buying probiotics from a pet food company that tests the quality of their products. In addition, look for details like the expiration date, the exact species of probiotic, the number of microorganisms it contains, and a guaranteed number of live organisms. And when you add any ingredient to your dog’s diet, whether it’s fiber or probiotics, do it gradually to give your dog’s gut time to adjust.

There are many things that can throw a dog’s digestive system out of balance, from something as simple as him eating the wrong thing (like a dead squirrel) or having a food allergy to larger issues like an infection or pancreatitis. Sometimes you’ll never know what caused a stomach issue, and it will resolve itself. Generally speaking, if your dog develops issues like persistent gas, vomiting or diarrhea and it’s been less than 48 hours, they’re still eating and drinking, and have no blood in their feces or vomit, you can try to manage the issue at home with a bland diet of boiled chicken and white rice. But if your dog is acting unusually lethargic, is vomiting blood, has blood in his stool, or has stopped eating or drinking, contact your veterinarian right away.

Research shows that as humans, our gut microbiome, immune system and nervous system are intimately connected, and stress can have a profound influence on all of them. The same is true for our dogs. Even short-term exposure to stress — as little as two hours — can impact the gut microbiome. Normally, a dog’s digestive system absorbs and utilizes nutrients; but when stress obstructs the action of that system, the result is gastrointestinal issues. Stress in dogs can be caused by a whole host of things, but the most common are travel, separation anxiety and lifestyle changes. If your dog has been exposed to any of these situations, be on the lookout for G.I. problems. Stress could very well be the culprit.

A dog’s microbiome is every bit as complex as our own, and is subject to the same kind of disruption. Being good to your pup’s microbiome will help him live a long, healthy, happy life.

Joan Merriam lives in Nevada City with her new golden retriever Frankie, her Maine coon cat Indy, and the infinite spirits of her beloved goldens Joey and Casey. You can reach Joan at joan@joanmerriam.com. And if you’re looking for a golden, hop on over to Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue.