Evaluation of extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing bacteria in feces of shelter dogs as a biomarker for altered gut microbial taxa and functional profiles

Colonization by ESBL bacteria marks altered gut microbiota. Dog's demography and fertility status modify the alterations, indicating host factors and ESBL bacteria interplay to shape gut microbiota. ESBL bacteria or other factors reprogram gut microbiome functions through down and upregulating multiple metabolic and biosynthesis pathways to promote ESBL bacteria colonization.