Quantifying the mycobiome and its major constituents on the skin of 20 normal dogs

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To report the density, and constituents, of the mycobiome on the skin surface of normal dogs. ANIMALS 20 normal dogs were recruited for this study, with informed consent in all cases. METHODS Flocked swabs were used to sample the skin surface and to sample the skin surface after superficial scraping with a blunted scapula. Both samples were taken within a brass guide with an internal area of 3.5 cm−2. Next-generation DNA sequencing was used to identify and quantify components of the mycobiome. RESULTS The median density of the mycobiome was 1.1 X 105 cm−2 (IQR, 27,561, 409,572). Cladosporium spp and Vishniacozyma victoriae were found on all 20 dogs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Knowledge of the density and the composition of the cutaneous mycobiome will increase our understanding of skin biology and may have relevance to future therapeutic trials.