As pet parents, we’re always looking for ways to improve our dogs’ health and happiness. One of the growing trends in pet care is the use of probiotics for dogs. These tiny, beneficial microorganisms are known for promoting gut health, but their benefits go far beyond digestion.
Probiotics are becoming a popular supplement in the world of dog health. These supplements help keep your dog’s skin healthy and its immune system strong. Think of canine probiotics as little helpers that keep your dog’s tummy happy.
In this blog, we’ll learn more about probiotics and why they’re good for dogs.
What Are Probiotics for Dogs?
Your dog’s gut is home to billions of microorganisms.
When everything is in balance, it works like a well-oiled machine. However, stress, illness, medications, or even a poor diet can throw off this balance. This leads to issues like diarrhea, gas, and a weakened immune system. This is where probiotics for dogs come in.
Probiotics for dogs are generally live bacteria or yeast that offer a ton of benefits.
What Are the Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs?
These supplements have a lot of advantages that can improve your dog’s overall health and life. Here’s why probiotics are good for dogs:
Improved Digestion
Probiotics for dogs can help with common issues like chronic diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and gas. They help dogs break down food and absorb nutrients, making the most out of your dog’s meals.
Strengthened Immune System
Around 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, so by enhancing gut health through probiotics, your dog's defenses are stronger. This improves pathogen defense and antibody production. In short, fewer diseases.
Relief from Allergies
For dogs with skin allergies, probiotics can be a big help. They reduce the associated inflammation and lower histamine levels, providing a better chance at comfort.
Better Skin and Coat Health
Probiotics can help keep the skin and coat healthy, reducing irritation, dryness, excessive shedding, and skin issues. They also keep a stronger skin barrier and improved nutrient absorption, furthering a healthy skin and coat.
Reduced Stress and Improved Behavior
Gut health and mental health are connected through the gut-brain axis. Essentially, this means that your dog’s behavior will significantly improve through probiotics. These can help reduce stress and assist with anxiety-related behaviors.
Improved Overall Health
All in all, the benefits all point toward a much better overall health for dogs. When their gut is healthy, they are happier and have a better outlook during their everyday routines. Plus, they experience fewer health issues.
Should a Dog Have Probiotics?
It will depend. If your dog is generally healthy, then they will be fine with their normal diet and exercise routines. Dogs should have probiotics when they need additional support for their gut, which is usually when they’re having a health or nutritional problem.
What Are the Types of Probiotics for Dogs?
Not all probiotics are the same, and different strains of bacteria provide different benefits. So, before you choose the right one for your dog, here's an overview of the common ones:
Lactobacillus acidophilus. This is one of the most well-known probiotic strains and is great for overall digestive health. This probiotic improves immune function and prevents the growth of unwanted bacteria. It’s also beneficial for reducing diarrhea.
Bifidobacterium animalis. A highly effective probiotic strain used to help improve stool quality, assist with constipation, and improve digestion. It’s a core component in high-quality probiotics for dogs.
Enterococcus faecium. Just like the previous probiotic strains, Enterococcus faecium can help restore a good balance of bacteria in your dog’s stomach. It’s particularly helpful for dogs that have stomach aches during stress or medication.
Bacillus coagulans. This type is mostly used for digestive support, reducing gas and bloating in dogs. It also works great in stool consistency, immune function, and managing inflammatory digestive diseases.
Saccharomyces boulardii.This is an excellent probiotic yeast for managing diarrhea and inflammation, as well as helping with stool quality. It’s a good option if your dog has any chronic gut issues.
Sources of Probiotics for Dogs
There are several ways to give your dog the probiotics they need. The important thing is to make sure this probiotic is safe, so we recommend bringing your best friend over to the clinic first. In the meantime, here are the common ones:
Probiotic Supplements
The most widely used option of probiotics for dogs is a supplement type that is specifically designed for our pups. High-quality supplements often contain specific probiotic strains tailored for dogs. These are:
Powders
Chews
Capsules
Probiotic-Enriched Dog Foods
Some dog food brands now include probiotics in their recipes. These specially formulated foods are designed to support your dog’s gut health as part of their daily diet. Be sure to look for options that list live and active cultures on the label.
Natural Sources of Probiotics
Certain human foods are naturally rich in probiotics and can be shared with your dog in strict moderation.
Plain, unsweetened yogurt. A good source of live culture, but make sure it’s free from artificial sweeteners.
Kefir. Similar to yogurt but higher in probiotics, kefir is a fermented milk drink that’s safe for most dogs in small amounts.
Fermented vegetables. This includes fermented carrots, cabbage, and green beans.
What Are the Side Effects of Probiotics for Dogs?
They are usually safe for dogs, beneficial even. But even then, there are some possible side effects to consider. These include:
Digestive upset
Diarrhea
Bloating
Constipation
When introducing probiotics to dogs, some may experience mild side effects as the gut adjusts. Generally, these symptoms are short-lived and should resolve. Plus, some probiotics can have additional flavorings and additives, which can be bad for dogs, so always choose the safest ones.
What to Know Before Giving Your Dog Probiotics
If you want to start giving your dog probiotics, here are some key things to consider first:
Not All Probiotics Are the Same
Some types of probiotics focus on general health, while others focus specifically on digestive health. Others are also made to support specific needs, such as diarrhea or skin health. Visit our vet pharmacy so we can help you decide the most suitable one.
Stick to Dog-Specific Products
Human-grade supplements are often not ideal for dogs because they have a different gut microbiome. Plus, some contain additives that aren't good for dogs. Always stick to what's right for them.
Check for Side Effects
Although probiotics are generally safe, some dogs can experience potential side effects such as gas, bloating, or soft stools. These symptoms usually resolve quickly. If not, talk to us immediately.
Store Properly
Probiotics are living microorganisms, and their effectiveness depends on proper storage. This means you should always keep them in a place that is cool and dry.
Probiotics Are Not Always Necessary
Even if they're beneficial, they aren't crucial. Always check with us first to see if your dog really needs probiotics or not. It's going to depend on their digestive and overall health.
Consult the Vets
Before starting your dog on probiotics, let our vets do a wellness check. We can recommend the best strains, dosage, and product for your dog’s unique needs.
“The key to your dog’s health is by helping their gut.”
- Dr. Soheyl Simaei
Final Thoughts
Probiotics for dogs are a simple yet super powerful way to support your best friend’s overall health. These supplements improve your dog’s digestion, strengthen its immunity, and promote a shiner coat. The benefits are pretty endless.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell if my dog needs a probiotic?
You can tell that your dog needs probiotics when they have digestive issues, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. Other indicators can be seen in their skin and in their overall mood.
Can I give my dog probiotics every day?
Yes, you can give your dog probiotics every day, as it’s generally safe for dogs and can even provide a ton of benefits. However, we recommend working with us first to make sure the type you give doesn’t cause any potential side effects.
What is the best time to give dog probiotics?
You can give your dog probiotics in the morning before they have eaten anything. This is because there is less stomach acid that can destroy the good bacteria, helping them survive and reach the gut. Some owners even give probiotics along with their dogs’ food.
Do probiotics help itchy dogs?
Yes, they can help by managing the immune system’s response. This reduces itching and improves the skin’s barrier.
How long do probiotics last?
Probiotics can last for about 6 months to 2 years. Once opened, the environment can affect the product’s shelf life, so always use them as listed.
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