Benefits For The Whole Dog
Advertisements touting the benefits of probiotics are plentiful claim that they are a cornerstone of preventative care. Probiotics boost the healthy gut bacteria that help digest food. They are a well-known therapy for diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset. More recently, theyve been found to counter urinary tract infections, immune system disorders and even anxiety.
In fact, mental health is one of the most exciting revelations about probiotics. Your dogs gastrointestinal tract and brain are in constant contact, and proper microorganisms in the intestines can help with mental and emotional regulation.
The bacterium called bifidobacterium longum, commonly known as BL999, is at the forefront of this discovery. Dr. Ragen T.S. McGowan, a pet behavior researcher for Nestlé Purina, reported that dogs who took BL999 were less likely to bark, jump, spin or pace in situations that normally caused them distress. They were also more likely to explore a new environment.
Why Is My Dog So Itchy
Canine atopic allergies are increasingly common. They are often caused by environmental and seasonal allergens, which include pollen , house dust mite, mould and household cleaning chemicals.
Younger dogs are especially susceptible, and this uncomfortable condition often develops before the age of three.
Some dogs have a greater genetic predisposition to developing environmental allergies because of their breed. This includes Dalmatians, Golden Retrievers, Bull breeds, Boxers, Pugs and West Highland White Terriers.
The problem is, most dogs cannot escape the annoying environmental allergens that trigger their symptoms. This makes itchy dog relief difficult their allergies can develop into a frustrating and life-long chronic condition.
Veterinary Sciences explains how everyday environmental allergens can cause many skin symptoms:
- Itching and scratching
- Darkening of the skin
- Unpleasant odour.
Unfortunately, your dogs attempts to alleviate the itching by licking and scratching often makes things worse.
In addition, treating pets is often harder than treating humans. Atopic allergies are one of the most common skin problems in dogs but it can be hard to pinpoint the exact cause. Your dog cant explain whats wrong and what they suspect is making them unwell. And they often dont understand the need to stay away from things that cause them to react.
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Pet Ultimates comes with a quarter teaspoon scoop and approximately a 60-day supply. For large dogs, that is a dollar a day at $35.95 per container, making this one of the more expensive supplements. We give this product an “A.” Their product falls slightly below perfect due to the high cost for large dogs but good value for small and medium-sized breeds.
Note: This commercial dog probiotic contains 22 species of probiotics at 2 billion CFUs. Still, this is half of what kefir milk offers in probiotics however it is easy to administer with your dog’s current feeding regimen and requires none of the maintenance that culturing kefir does.
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Can A Dog Have Too Much Probiotics
Simply put, dogs cannot overdose on probiotics as they do not contain directly troublesome ingredients. This is because ingesting higher amounts of probiotics is not directly harmful or toxic. However, too many good bacteria can upset the dogs digestive system and cause issues like diarrhea and excessive gassiness.
Worst-case scenario, dogs that eat too much probiotics will develop mils and transient digestive issues in the form of stomach upset diarrhea, vomiting, gassiness, and bloating.
What Is A Probiotic
Before going deeper into probiotics for dogs with allergies, let me explain more of the basics with probiotics.
A probiotic is a combination of live microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeast, that are naturally found in the body. Your dogs body contains good bacteria and bad bacteria.
When your dog is sick or stressed, the bad bacteria can increase and throw off the balance in their body. Probiotics are made up of good bacteria and can be used to restore and maintain a healthy balance.
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Why Do Allergies Develop
The reason why we develop allergies is still poorly understood, but it is a subject of great concern to the medical profession as these inappropriate physical responses are a growing concern worldwide6.
The World Allergy Organization warns that âthe prevalence of allergic diseases worldwide is rising dramatically in both developed and developing countries.â
Allergies can take many different forms, encompassing reactions ranging from mild to dangerous anaphylactic reactions. Whilst food intolerances are generally the result of poor digestion or leaky gut, where incompletely digested molecules of food pass through into the bloodstream triggering an immune response from an antibody, or immunoglobulin. A true allergy involves the immune system, and in particular a specific immunoglobulin called IgE , which is implicated in anaphylaxis.
Health professionals can read more about leaky gut over on the Professionals site.
Allergies can also present without warning at any time, often affecting sufferers late in life and causing reactions to foods or environmental stimuli that have previously been well-tolerated.In particular, more and more children are presenting with allergenic symptoms, with the latest statistics indicating that more than 50% of children in the United Kingdom now suffer from some form of allergy.
Do Probiotics Really Work
Although probiotics are still widely considered to be an alternative allergy treatment, research shows that they can have a very positive and very significant effect on allergic rhinitis symptoms.
Not only do studies suggest that allergic rhinitis sufferers who take probiotics enjoy a greater quality of life overall than those who do not, but there is also evidence to suggest that probiotics could reduce the number of allergic rhinitis episodes experienced each year, thereby reducing the need for traditional treatments.
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Symptoms Of Atopic Dermatitis
Dog skin allergy appears as an ugly rash due to relentless scratching. The more serious version of it is called acute moist dermatitis or hot spots small bald areas that appear red, irritated, inflamed and often feel hot to the touch.
Atopic dogs will usually rub, lick, chew, bite or scratch at their feet, flanks, ears, armpits or groin. Their skin may also become dry and crusty or oily depending on the dog.
The ear flaps of some dogs may become red and hot. Some get a bacterial and yeast ear infection due to overproduction of wax as a response to the allergy.
Where Do Allergies Come From
Scientists agree that there is a genetic component to allergies.
Kids born to parents with allergies are more likely to develop allergies than children whose parents do not have them.
But in order to develop allergies, there must be an environmental trigger.
Unfortunately, our hyper-vigilance about germs and bacteria may actually cause more allergies to develop.
Researchers hypothesize that reduced family size, improved hygiene, vaccinations, use of antimicrobial medications, and the consumption of near sterile food have all decreased or altered our exposure to microbes.
As a result, our bodies do not always develop natural resistance to common allergens and we suffer from allergies that can range from mild nuisances to severe chronic conditions.
While these findings make sense, there is another missing piece that Body Ecology founder, Donna Gates, wants you to know about allergiesyour inner ecosystem.
In a perfect world, everyone would have a healthy inner ecosystem that keeps us in balance, just as the Earths ecosystems keep it in balance. In humans, however, this inner ecosystem is the health of your intestines and in essence, your digestive tract.
When your inner ecosystem is in balance, your intestines are teeming with the beneficial bacteria and yeast that keep your immune system strong.
With the right balance of beneficial microflora, you can fight off allergens and infections .
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Dog Probiotics For Diarrhea
Even the healthiest dogs will experience diarrhea at some point in their lives. With a gastrointestinal system similar to humans, dogs experience many of the same kind of health problems humans do, from stomach aches and flatulence to nausea and, unfortunately, diarrhea. While some incidences of diarrhea in dogs clear up on their own within a day or two, other cases will require additional treatment, such as probiotics for dogs and puppies with diarrhea symptoms, a safe and natural way to restore intestinal health, prevent dehydration and improve overall well-being of dogs.
Some things to keep in mind when treating dogs with diarrhea include:
- Onset of diarrheawas it sudden or gradual?
- Has diarrhea persisted for several days?
- Has there been a change in diet for the dog? More wet food, too many table scraps?
- Has the dog been given veterinary-prescribed medication for the diarrhea and continues to suffer from loose stools?
- Have you considered using probiotics for dogs with diarrhea?
Probiotics For Dogs Ear Infection: Benefits Reviews And Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Probiotics for Dogs Ear Infection: Honest Paws Pre+ProbioticsThis is our top pick when it comes to probiotics for dogs who are known to suffer from infections in their ear canal.
- Best Chewable Probiotics for Dogs Ear Infection: Zesty Paws Allergy Immune Supplement for DogsFormulated with Wild Alaskan Salmon Fish Oil, this probiotic is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are great for itchy skin and seasonal allergies.
- Best Probiotic for Dogs with Ear Yeast Infections: PetVitalityPRO Probiotics for DogsIf your dog suffers from yeast infections in its inner and outer ear or simply suffers from hearing loss, this probiotic can do the trick.
- Best Multi-Strain Probiotics for Dogs Ear Infection: PetLab Co. Probiotics for DogsMade using premium ingredients, this probiotic is great if your dog suffers from constant head shaking, itching, or loose stools.
- Best Affordable Probiotics for Dogs Ear Infection:TummyWorks Probiotic Chews for DogsMade with digestive enzymes and prebiotics, this product is great for diarrhea, upset stomach, gas, constipation & bad breath.
- Best Grain-Free Probiotics for Dogs Ear Infection: Deley Naturals Advanced Supplement Probiotics for DogsThis grain-free probiotic is made using all-natural ingredients and is free from artificial colors or flavorings.
- Helps maintain proper gut flora
- Immune system support
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Probiotics For Dog Skin Allergies The Itchy Dog Relief 3 Step Plan
You know about oral probiotics for gut health, but have you heard about topical probiotics for dog skin allergies and itchy dog relief?
This post explains how our Probiotic Pet Skin Allergy Remedy Pack makes life more comfortable for your itchy dog. The pack combines probiotic care products with pet-safe cleaning products for longer term itchy dog relief. They work together to reduce your dogs exposure to environmental allergens and alleviate itchy skin.
What Do Studies Say About Probiotics For Your Dogs Allergies
Some of the latest studies conducted have proven the effectiveness of probiotics in alleviating allergies in dogs.
A 2015 study showed that the probiotic Lactobacillus Sakei, when given for two months, significantly reduced the severity of atopic dermatitis in canines.
The key takeaway from these studies is that, while probiotics dont directly target the allergies of your dog, they promote good gut and immune health.
- Watery, itchy eyes
- Swelling of the tongue and lips
Probiotics advantages surely outweigh the possible risks, so be sure to purchase probiotics that are manufactured by trusted companies that truly care about your dogs health.
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Zesty Paws Allergy Immune Bites
Image courtesy Zesty Paws
Zesty Paws Allergy Immune Bites are designed to help dogs with a variety of health issues, including allergies. The probiotics in this supplement can help to regulate your dog’s immune system and reduce their reactions to allergens.
The supplement also contains enzymes that can help to break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently. This can help to improve your dog’s overall health and make them feel their best.
If your dog is struggling with allergies, this is a great supplement to consider. Zesty Paws Allergy Immune Bites also contain Omega-fatty acids which are beneficial for a dog’s coat and skin.
Greatpet Care Great Poop
Image courtesy GreatPet
GreatPet Care Great Poop Digestive Supplement is designed to help dogs with a variety of health issues, including allergies. The probiotics in this supplement can help to regulate your dog’s immune system and reduce their reactions to allergens. The supplement also contains enzymes that can help to break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently. This can help to improve your dog’s overall health and make them feel their best.
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Before Giving Your Dog Probiotics
There are a few things to consider if youâre thinking about giving a probiotic to your dog.
Research. There isnât much research on how probiotics affect dogs. Dogs have many types of bacteria in their gut, but a lot of research has only looked at single types of bacteria rather than several types and how they work together. This means we donât fully know how probiotics in dogs work.
Quality. The way probiotics are made and packaged or how they are added to food and treats can change how they work. This could mean you might waste your money on a supplement that might not work.
Probiotics are sensitive. Probiotics are very sensitive to temperature, air, and moisture. Live probiotics are usually better and should be kept in the fridge, so make sure to read the labels.
Check the type of probiotic. There are many different types of probiotics. Make sure to read the label to know what type youâre giving your dog. Check with your vet to make sure it’s the right kind.
Expiration date. After a certain amount of time, probiotics might not be as effective. Check the use-by date and make sure you finish up the probiotics before then.
Diet can affect the microbiome. Many dogs eat a high carbohydrate diet. This can cause changes to the bacteria in your dogâs stomach. It is important to talk to your vet to make sure your dog is getting the right kinds of food.
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Common Canine Health Problems
Why give our dogs probiotics? Doesnt dog food give them enough vitamins and minerals to keep them healthy?
Yes and no. While a well-balanced diet of protein-rich food does satisfy their nutritional needs, dogs can still suffer numerous bacterial infections resulting from wounds, being around infectious dogs and a reduced immune system response that cannot fight off opportunistic infections.
Dogs spread bacterial diseases such as kennel cough, leptospirosis and brucellosis to other dogs as well. Diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever caused by tick bites are also forms of bacterial infections that can debilitate a dogs health.
Many bacteria-based, canine gastrointestinal illnesses are due to the strong, instinctual urge dogs have to scavenge, which naturally leads to dogs having indiscriminate appetites. Consequently, GI upset characterized by vomiting, diarrhea and constipation frequently affects dogs that spend time roaming outdoors and investigating interesting smells. Moving to a new home, dietary changes, weaning, taking antibiotics and aging can also have detrimental effects on the delicate balance of canine intestinal microflora.
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Symptoms Of Food Allergies
Soy, wheat and corn fillers are the most common culprits of food allergies in dogs. However, dogs can also suffer allergic reactions to meat and dairy products. Symptoms presented by dogs with a food allergy include:
- Hair loss/hot spots due to excessive biting and scratching
- Recurring ear infections
- Increased bowel movements or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing due to airway swelling
How Do I Use Probiotics For My Dogs Allergies
Probiotics for dogs with allergies are used in combination with other treatments. Here is a close look at those treatment options:
- Medicated Baths. This is the most common way to provide relief to your dog who is suffering from skin troubles. There are special shampoos formulated to provide relief to a dogs itchy skin.
- Antihistamines. This is a safe and highly effective solution to counter skin allergies. The most common antihistamines areBenadryl and Claritin. They are safe and rarely cause side effects.
- Antibiotics/Antifungals. Antibiotics are mainly used to cure secondary skin infections. The antifungal medication, on the other hand, is used for yeast infections.
- Hypoallergenic Diets. Hypoallergenic dog foods are used in dogs with food allergies. It has been observed that dairy, beef, and some grains are the key triggers for an allergic reaction.
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Constant Itching And Scratching
Itching and scratching is a common nuisance with dogs. The itching and scratching can range from mild to severe depending on your dogs circumstances. The most common cause of itching and scratching in dogs is food allergy. Digestive enzymes can help by supporting the digestive system, taking the digestive burden off the pancreas.
Can Probiotics Make Dog Allergies Worse
Yes, probiotics for dogs with allergies can make things worse. However, this is only possible if they are misused introduced suddenly or in high amounts. In such cases, they can cause constipation, bloating, and gassiness.
Probiotics can also worsen the dogs allergy if they contain an ingredient that the dog is sensitive to.
Other than that, probiotics for dogs with allergies are safe. According to a study, probiotics for dogs are well tolerated with no safety concerns..
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The Best Probiotics For Dog Allergies Reviewed
There are many different probiotics for dogs with allergies. To help pet parents find the best option for their dogs, we have reviewed the best dog probiotics for allergy management.
Summary: This probiotic is our top pick and is placed well in our good books thanks to its efficacy, safety, and ease of use. The product contains five different strains of live cultures. As a result, it is able to prevent bacterial imbalances in the gut, improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and eliminate bad breath. It is also known to improve overall immunity in your dog. Loaded with 5 billion Colony Forming Units per serving, the product is available in pre-measured sachets for easy administering.
Recommended Uses: Healthy digestion, immune system support, skin issues
Ingredient Analysis
- Inulin: Derived from chicory root, this starchy substance stays in the bowels and helps certain beneficial bacteria grow
- Solarplast: Spinach lead extract that offers several health benefits, including healthy aging and cellular restoration
- Rice Hull & Rice Extract Blend: Adds carbs and fiber to the formula but may cause issues in sensitive dogs
Probiotics Strains: Bifidobacterium animalis lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Bifidobacterium longum
Pros
- Can be used for both dogs and cats
- No fillers, allergens, and artificial additives
Cons
- Contains rice hull and rice extract blend
Ingredient Analysis
