🩵 The Enteric Nervous System: Your Dog’s Second Brain

The Enteric Nervous System (ENS) — often called the second brain — is a vast network of nerves that lines your dog’s digestive tract.
It constantly communicates with the brain and spinal cord through the gut–brain axis.

• It controls digestion, nutrient absorption, and gut movement.
   
• It produces many of the same neurotransmitters found in the brain — such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA — all of which influence mood, stress, and behavior.
   
• Because of this link, what happens in your dog’s gut can directly affect how calm, focused, or anxious they feel.
   

A calm belly creates a calm dog.

                    Modern studies confirm that the ENS plays a major role in emotional regulation and wellbeing:

• Serotonin production: About 90% of serotonin — the neurotransmitter that stabilizes mood — is produced in the gut. When the gut is inflamed or imbalanced, serotonin levels drop, often increasing anxiety.
   
• Gut microbiome: The bacteria in the digestive tract influence immunity and mood. Balanced microbiota can help dogs handle stress better and behave more calmly.
   
• The gut–brain link: Dogs with chronic stomach or intestinal issues often also show higher levels of fear or reactivity.
   
• Fresh, human-grade nutrition: Early research (University of Illinois, 2019–2022) found that minimally processed, human-grade foods are more digestible and nutrient-dense — supporting a healthier gut and, in turn, a calmer nervous system.

When the gut is out of balance, the ENS can send “stress signals” to the brain, keeping dogs stuck in fight-or-flight mode.
Common signs include:

• Sudden reactivity or irritability
   
• Restlessness or pacing
   
• Loose stool or gas
   
• Loss of appetite
   
• Excessive licking or chewing
   
• Difficulty settling or sleeping
   

Supporting the ENS helps restore calm to both the body and mind.

• Feed fresh, balanced foods – Whole, minimally processed diets are easier to digest.
   
• Keep mealtimes calm – Avoid tension or overstimulation around food.
   
• Use slow feeders or puzzles – Encourage slower eating and mental engagement.
   
• Provide daily gentle movement – Exercise stimulates digestion and the vagus nerve.
   
• Support the microbiome – Probiotics or fermented foods (with vet guidance).
   
• Schedule calming care – Massage, enrichment, and relaxation sessions can soothe the nervous system from the inside out.

At Calm Canines, we take a holistic approach that supports both the mind and body.
Our calming and enrichment sessions are designed to help dogs rebuild safety and balance across all systems — including the Enteric Nervous System.

Whether through mindful feeding, gentle touch, or stress-reduction techniques, we help your dog’s “second brain” feel calm and supported.

Gentle Care for Anxious & Fearful Dogs.
Because calm begins within.