Canine aggression is a significant concern for both public safety and the welfare of dogs, particularly in working dog populations. Recent research published in Veterinary Sciences examined the relationship between gut microbiota composition, serum serotonin (5-HT) levels, and aggressive behavior in working dogs.
The study found that dogs displaying aggressive behavioral phenotypes had distinct gut microbiome profiles compared to non-aggressive counterparts. These differences suggest that microbial composition may play a role in the manifestation of aggression, potentially enabling diagnostic and preventive measures before behavioral issues escalate.
In addition, serotonin (5-HT) emerged as a potential biomarker for monitoring and diagnosing canine aggression. As serotonin is involved in mood regulation and behavioral responses, its measurement may offer valuable insights into aggression risk assessment.
Researchers highlight that integrating gut microbiome analysis with neurotransmitter profiling could lead to new strategies for managing aggression in working dogs, ultimately enhancing public safety and improving human–dog interactions.
Source: Sun, N., Xie, L., Chao, J., Xiu, F., Zhai, H., Zhou, Y., Yu, X., & Shui, Y., Veterinary Sciences, Volume 12, Published May 28, 2025. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050336
