New research published in Veterinary Sciences has found that hempseed can significantly improve the gut health of healthy dogs by positively influencing their gut microbiome—the vast community of bacteria that plays a vital role in digestion, immunity, metabolism, and overall wellbeing.
Researchers from Kasetsart University in Thailand studied 24 healthy mixed-breed dogs over a 90-day period. Every dog was fed the same balanced diet, but two groups received an extra hemp boost. One group’s food was coated with 2% hempseed oil, while another group received an 11% supplement of hempseed cake, a nutrient-rich by-product left after oil extraction.
Throughout the study, the scientists closely monitored the dogs’ health using blood tests, body condition scoring, food intake records, and advanced genetic analysis of faecal samples. These tests were carried out at the beginning of the trial, after three weeks, and again at the end, allowing researchers to track exactly how each dog’s gut bacteria changed over time.
While all of the dogs naturally developed a more diverse gut microbiome during the three months, those fed hemp experienced the greatest improvements.
Dogs receiving hempseed oil saw the biggest increase in bacterial diversity—a key indicator of a resilient and adaptable gut ecosystem. Meanwhile, the hempseed cake produced its own unique benefits by encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Ligilactobacillus, Lactobacillaceae, Actinobacteriota, and Collinsella, all of which are linked to better digestive health.
The researchers concluded that both hemp-based diets supported a healthier gut microbiome without upsetting the natural balance of bacteria. However, hempseed oil delivered the strongest overall effects, creating the largest increase in microbial diversity and producing the most noticeable changes in beneficial bacterial populations.
According to the research team, the findings suggest that hempseed—particularly its oil—may offer meaningful health benefits for dogs by naturally supporting a healthier digestive system. They also noted that different hemp products influence the gut microbiome in different ways, meaning the form of hemp used could determine the specific benefits it provides.
While more research is still needed, the study adds to the growing body of evidence showing that hemp isn’t just beneficial for humans—it could also become an important ingredient in supporting the long-term health and wellbeing of our four-legged companions.
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