The role of the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome in health and disease has become increasingly apparent in both humans and animals; it is central to many physiological processes and essential for host metabolism, immunity and protection from pathogens. In dogs, imbalances in the gut microbiome are associated with several GI disorders, but despite its importance, the gut microbiome in dogs is vastly understudied and knowledge is primarily based on research in humans. A clearer understanding of the microbial species at play would be beneficial, to enable us to monitor, support and influence gut health in dogs. Recently, we conducted the most comprehensive analysis of the canine microbiome to date, increasing understanding of its novelty through vast discovery of new bacterial taxa. This detailed catalogue uncovered the critical role the gut microbiome could play in dog health and now provides a key resource for researchers worldwide, expanding opportunities to optimise canine care and treatment.