Chronic digestive issues in dogs can be tough to manage and negatively affect your pup's health and happiness. Fortunately, probiotics for dogs may help in certain circumstances.
In this article, we'll dive into what probiotics are, what the research says about how probiotics impact your dog's health, and what to consider when choosing a probiotic product for your pet.
What Are Probiotics for Dogs?
Probiotics for dogs are products that contain "good bacteria" that enter your dog's digestive system and influence the overall health of their gut biome.
If you've ever eaten yogurt with live cultures, you've tried a probiotic. Probiotic products contain live "friendly" microbes, bacteria and yeast, specifically, that live in the gut.
Unlike germs that cause food poisoning or other ailments, billions of healthy probiotic organisms called "good bacteria" live in your dog's intestines naturally. This population of tiny critters is called the microbiome.
Here are a few ways that "good bacteria" in the gut microbiome help your dog:
- Digesting food
- Protecting the intestinal lining from pathogens
- Making nutrients and vitamins for your dog
- Supporting your dog's immune system
The main idea for probiotics is to replenish helpful bacteria and restore balance in your dog's digestive tract.
When Are Probiotics Used?
Veterinarians sometimes recommend probiotics to support digestive health in dogs with persistent diarrhea, constipation, or bloating issues. An otherwise healthy microbiome can also be disrupted by stress or after a course of antibiotics.
Probiotics may support overall gut health and immune system function, particularly in dogs with a history of antibiotic use. Additionally, initial research suggests that probiotics may positively impact skin health in dogs with a condition called atopic dermatitis.
Natural Probiotics for Dogs
If you're interested in natural sources of probiotics for your dog, you're in luck. All probiotics contain live bacteria; therefore, all probiotic products are natural.
In addition to probiotic supplements (capsules or powder), you can also give your dog probiotics through food. Fermented foods like yogurt or kefir with live cultures can also be probiotics. Importantly, (fermented) probiotic foods for dogs can contain artificial sweeteners that are toxic to dogs. Only give dogs plain yogurt or kefir without artificial sweeteners.
There are also some brands of dog food that contain probiotics. Check the label for "direct-fed microbials" and an approval statement from the pet-food regulatory body AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials).
Conclusion
When selecting a probiotic product, look for specific "friendly bacteria" formulated for dogs. Follow the dosage instructions carefully, and try to give the probiotic at the same time every day. Additionally, consider incorporating prebiotics into your dog's diet to support their microbiome.
Consult your veterinarian if you're interested in probiotics for your dog. They can diagnose any underlying conditions and help you build a management plan. These actions will get your dog back to feeling their best and living their happiest, healthiest life.
