Natural Probiotics For Dogs
Itâs important to note that supplements arenât your only option. Plenty of foods in your home contain probiotics naturally such as yogurt, kefir, onions, bananas, garlic, honey, leeks, kimchi, and Jerusalem artichokes.
Some of these foods are not ideal for dogs though for example, onions and large quantities of garlic are dangerous and should be avoided. Kimchi is too spicy. The jury is out on dairy products â yogurt included it depends on the dog. Some literature contends that dairy causes digestive upset in dogs, but a better part of the home feeding community includes yogurt in their dogsâ diets.
Some pet parents, including C.J. Puotinen, author of The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care, are so adventurous that they feed things like lacto-fermented vegetables, such as mild homemade sauerkraut or shredded carrots with ginger. .
Ultimately, you can work in any number of ways with a supportive veterinarian to come up with a safe, nutritious regime at home that takes gut health, and therefore probiotics, into account. They may recommend green tripe, the nutrient-rich lining of the stomach of a ruminant animal such as a cow, deer , or bison, which is loaded with beneficial bacteria and enzymes. Sticking with foods that are easily digested by your dog makes the addition of probiotics to your dogâs mealtime routine incredibly safe.
Is It Okay To Give My Dog Probiotics Daily
Yes, You can. Be sure a well-balanced supplement with the gut health complexes is included. If you want a stand-alone probiotic, you should talk to yourveterinarian about how often you should give your dog a probiotic because they will be able to accurately dose your dogs breed and size.
It can take several weeks of a daily probiotic to take effect. Thats why being proactive in giving your dog a probiotic becomes so essential to fortify against and reduce any digestive issues. Want to boost your dogs overall health? Rogue Pet Science offers Origins Canine 5 in 1 Supplement that promotes positive gut health through natural foods.
Pre-biotics Foundation Fertilizer for Probiotics
If you cant keep Probiotics alive, you cant keep them around.
Rogue Pet Science
Probiotics From Pet Ultimates
Pros
Another probiotic in powder form, Pet Ultimates, is a solid choice to give your dog probiotics.
Its very similar to Probiotic Support from NomNomNow in that it contains minimal ingredients and no flavor.
But unlike Probiotic support, this one contains inulin as its first ingredient for prebiotics.
You will often hear that prebiotics is necessary for probiotics, but no study has shown this to be the case in dogs.
Too much inulin can cause gas, bloating, and abdominal cramping in dogs.
It is unclear the exact amount of inulin in this formula, and it may not be something to worry about but something to keep in mind.
This dog probiotic is an excellent choice by a reputable dog brand.
Rounding out our list is FortiFlora from the well-known dog brand, Purina.
If you have done any prior research on probiotics for dogs, you have probably come across it.
It is probably the most familiar probiotics for dogs product on the market, and for a good reason because it works.
Unlike the other two powdered form probiotics on our list, this one contains liver flavoring, which can be more palatable for dogs.
However, unlike Probiotic Support from NomNomNow and Probiotics from Pet Ultimates, this one is not minimal in ingredients.
Except for yeast, which is known to cause some issues in dogs, all the other ingredients are acceptable.
One packet a day in your dogs food is all they need to get the beneficial bacteria in their bodies.
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Best Probiotic For Dogs With Allergies: Zesty Paws Aller
A healthy gut can go a long way to alleviate your dogs allergy issues. Zesty Paws Aller-Immune Bites combines a five-strain probiotic formula with special ingredients to help combat more serious allergy and immunity problems.
These chewable bites contain organic licorice root, apple cider vinegar, colostrum, and vitamins, protein, fiber, and antioxidants that are clinically proven to boost the immune system. The peanut butter chews also include wild Alaskan salmon oil to support your dogs immune system health and skin allergies.
Recommended Use: Begin with half the suggested dose and gradually work up to the suggested daily amount: 1 chew , 2 chews , and 3 chews . Amounts can be split between AM and PM.
Probiotics included:Inulin , Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. brevis, L. fermentum, L. lactis, and L. plantarum.
Note: Many customers say it takes a few weeks to improve allergies and itchy skin, so stick with it.
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- $30.99for 30 individual pouches
Third Place: Vetriscience Vetri Mega Probiotic Review
VetriScience is a well-respected canine supplement brand, and its probiotic formula doesnt disappoint. If your dog scoffs at powder on his food, VetriSciences capsules could be an excellent solution.
This product contains a prebiotic, seven bacterial strains, and five billion CFU per capsule. Its recommended for supporting digestive health and issues related to food sensitivity and allergies. It also promotes a healthy immune and neurological system.
Recommended use: Give one capsule daily for dogs under 40 lbs . Store in a cool, dry place.
Probiotics included: Fructooligosaccharides prebiotic, Bifidobacterium bifidum, B. Iongum, Enterococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. brevis, L. plantarum, and L. casei.
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If youre looking for an alternative to powders or pills, these PetHonestys probiotic chews with enzymes help support digestive health, immunity, and nutrient absorption. They come in two flavors and dont contain wheat, corn, soy, dairy, harmful chemicals, preservatives, or artificial flavoring. Each chew contains five strains of bacteria, a prebiotic, and three billion CFUs.
Made in the USA in a Good Manufacturing Practices-certified and FDA-approved facility, you can trust you are giving your pup a trusted daily supplement. They have a money-back guarantee and subscription option to save 20% on recurring purchases. You can also save 10% if you bundle three together.
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- Starts at $18.99 for 70 soft chews
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The Top Choice Of Probiotics For Dogs
The top choice of probiotic for your dog would be the ones that have lactobacillus. Lactobacillus can enhance nutrient absorption so your dog will get all the vitamins and minerals from their dog food. Lactobacillus is a potent bacteria that can fight against invaders and alleviate upset stomach and diarrhea. They can also reduce symptoms of nausea and vomiting so your dog will get a good night’s sleep.
Another type of bacteria is called the bifidobacterium, which is known to strengthen the immune system. If your dog is recovering from an illness, this would be the best probiotic to give to him. You can also get probiotics that have a combination of lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. That way, you can get the best of both worlds.
Choosing the right probiotics for your dog also has the added benefit of treating:
Related: 10 High Fiber Foods For Your Dog
What Are Dog Probiotics
Dog Probiotics are organisms found in your dogs food or given in a supplement to improve your dogs gut health. For dogs, a lot of the health issues they have stem from their overall gut health. By adding dog probiotics to their diet, you can give them an increased level of health and wellness. We believe, a healthy dog is a happy dog, and this is just one more way to make that desire a reality.
Does this still sound a little confusing? Let us be a little more clear so that you can understand it in a practical sense.
We, as humans, want to keep our health up. To do this we eat fresh fruits and vegetables as well as meats. In addition to making wise diet choices, we may also take vitamins and supplements to keep us healthy. This way when we get sick weve built a reserve to help us fight off illnesses.
In a nutshell, probiotics help to give your dog the health reserves they need. This increase health reserve allows your dogs to enjoy the healthy lives they want. We hope that this gives you the peace of mind you have always wanted.
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What Makes Them Good
Probiotics can help restore your dogs health, energy and mood if suffering from one or more of the following symptoms typically caused by an imbalance of intestinal bacteria:
- Coat and skin issues
- Frequent vomiting
- Yeast infections
- Inflammatory disorders of the GI tract
- General lethargy, depression, restlessness or unusual aggression
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea commonly affects dogs that are taking antibiotics for an extended period. This is because antibiotics tend to kill all bacteria in the dogs body while also compromising the barrier function provided by microflora in the colon. In response to antibiotics overreaching ability to eliminate bacteria, opportunistic pathogens such as Clostridium difficile or Bacteroides spp can easily infiltrate such a vulnerable GI tract and cause a variety of chronic infections.
Dr Mercola Complete Probiotics Powder Supplement
Image courtesy Dr. Mercola
With the Dr. Mercola Complete Probiotics Dog & Cat Supplement, you can help your buddy’s gastrointestinal health and well-being. This probiotic supplement combines 10 of the most potent probiotics, or “good bacteria,” known to promote optimal digestive and immune system wellness in cats and dogs.
Fortified with 38 billion live probiotics, each portion delivers nearly 38 billion microorganisms that may be added to your partner’s food during mealtimes. The probiotics not only enhance digestion and immunity but also aids in the absorption of nutrients from meals, such as vitamin K and B vitamins for energy and general health.
It’s also made with no wheat, gluten, corn, or soy, so it’s perfect for pets who are allergic to those ingredients.
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What Are Probiotics For Dogs And What Do They Do
Probiotics are strains of beneficial bacteria that colonize and grow in the bodys intestinal tract in humans and animals.
They are part of the microbiome, a more extensive system of bacteria and microbes contributing to body functions.
Research has shown that these good bacteria are essential to both the digestive and immune systems.
Health problems, both major and minor, can occur when there is an imbalance in the types of bacteria in the intestinal tract.
The medical term for this is dysbiosis when there are more harmful bacteria than beneficial.
There are three prevalent causes of dysbiosis in dogs:
- Processed dog food high in carbs and harmful ingredients
- Antibiotics and steroids
Each of these decreases the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Now imagine what they can do together.
When a dog has dysbiosis, it can develop intestinal permeability more commonly known as leaky gut.
And because leaky gut allows foreign bodies to enter the bloodstream from the intestinal tract, inflammation happens.
As you know, inflammation connects to a wide range of illnesses in both humans and dogs.
These illnesses include but are not limited to:
- Diarrhea, gas, bloating, and other digestive issues
- Ear, skin, and urinary tract infections
- Flea, food, and seasonal allergies
We believe that leaky gut is the reason for many ailments in dogs today, and dog owners dont know it.
But you suspect it, and it is why you want to add probiotics to your dogs diet.
What Can I Give My Dog To Harden His Stool
If you have checked the feeding amount is correct, cut out treats and spaced the meals and your dog is still producing soft poo the addition of just a couple of tablespoons of cooked carrot, sweet potato or squash to their meal can work wonders in firming up their poo. It should be a pretty quick change too.
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Do Veterinarians Recommend Probiotics For My Dog
Yes. Veterinarians believe that probiotics can assist your dog by getting their gut health back on track. In fact, having probiotics as a normal part of their diet should allow your dog to stay ahead of the curve and hopefully prevent the illness from affecting them. However, make sure you talk with your veterinarian about the probiotic options that are available for your dog. Each dog has different needs and health issues. Depending on the needs of your dog these factors will affect what probiotic option is best for your dog.
Are Diy Probiotics Safe For My Dog
Yes, homemade probiotics for dogs are safe. DIY, homemade probiotics for dogs are prepared with ingredients that are safe and health-boosting for dogs.
Probiotics help with digestion, improve overall gut health, manage bad breath, and strengthen the immune system. On the modern market, there are many probiotic supplements and dog food with probiotics.
Homemade probiotics for dogs are an excellent alternative to those products. They allow owners to get creative and decide on the exact ingredients to include in the recipe.
- Helps maintain proper gut flora
- Immune system support
Also Check: What Are Probiotics Made From
The Hero Will Have Its Day
Thankfully science has begun to recognize the unsung hero of gut health and overall health and well-being, and you will now never confuse prebiotic as a mispronunciation of probiotic. Though each has its own important, respective role to play, youll do well to remember:
So for your dogs optimum health, choose nutritional supplements like Vetericyn ALL-IN that include high-quality prebiotics to support digestive processes, promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, and ensure greater health and well-being.
Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian
Dan Richardson has been a practicing veterinarian for over 10 years. He specializes in surgery and orthopedics. Dan is originally from rural western Nevada and attended the University of Idaho for undergraduate study and Oregon State University for Veterinary School. The Richardson Family enjoys camping and spending time on the water fishing, paddle boarding, or digging their feet in the sand somewhere warm.
Considerations For Probiotics For Dogs
Before giving your dog a probiotic, here are some things to think about.
Your dogâs health is an indicator. If your dog is healthy, they may not need a probiotic. A vet will usually prescribe a probiotic if thereâs a problem with your dogâs gut or digestion. This is usually caused by illness or stress.
Diet also plays a big role. Research shows that dogs who eat a diet high in carbohydrates may not have healthy microbiomes. Changing your dogâs food and adding more protein could help. Your vet can help you find the right food for your dog.
There are different strains of probiotics. Probiotics differ in the types and amounts of bacteria strains they contain. Some of the bacteria commonly found in probiotics and the gut include:
- Lactobacillus casei
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Enterococcus faecium
Not all probiotics are made the same and some donât have the strains your dog may need. Itâs important to talk with your vet and read labels to make sure youâre giving the right bacteria to your dog.
Probiotics are sensitive to temperature, air, and moisture. Probiotics are living things that have been adapted to living in the GI tract. Exposure to air, temperature and moisture extremes for long periods of time can kill the microbes inside and render the product useless. This means they may need to be kept in the fridge.
Dogs can also be allergic to dairy or lactose-intolerant, which can cause diarrhea and upset stomach.
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How Long Should A Dog Take Probiotics
Probiotics need 1-3 days to colonize the intestinal tract.
Stress related diarrhea:
If the goal is to prevent stress-related diarrhea prophylactic administration of probiotic is best given a few days to weeks ahead.
Antibiotic associated diarrhea:
For prevention of antibiotic associated GI signs, administering probiotics a few days ahead will increase success. Separate a probiotic from antibiotic ideally by at least 4 hours otherwise antibiotics may inactivate probiotics.
Immune support and chronic bowel disease:
For immune stimulation probiotics should be given long term over weeks to months.
Dogs/cats with chronic enteropathy a probiotic should be given weeks to months to provide maximum benefit for improving intestinal barrier function and increasing immune regulation.
Probotic benefits end after administration ends because they are eliminated by the body.
Acute diarrhea:
Probiotics should be administered for 24 weeks to animals with acute diarrhea. It may be preferable to delay the initiation of probiotic treatment in dogs with bloody diarrhea and compromised intestinal mucosal barrier until the hemorrhagic diarrhea has resolved.
How To Properly Give Your Dog Probiotics
If you consult with the veterinarian, they will provide you with the proper dosage based on your dog’s weight. Your vet can also provide you with helpful tips and strategies to administer the supplement. For example, if you purchase the powder form of probiotics for dogs, you can mix it in Fido’s food. The best part about probiotics is that they begin to work right away when they enter your dog’s gut.
However, it will take several hours for the probiotic to be fully digested and enter the gut. Keep in mind that some dogs may take a couple of days for their digestive system to have the proper amount of protective bacteria. In a few weeks, pet owners may notice a positive change in their dog’s digestive health. Its essential to be patient because it takes time for these supplements to work properly. You dont want to give too much supplements because they can upset your companions G.I. tract.
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Does Raw Dog Food Contain Natural Probiotics For Dogs
Yes! One of the best ways you can ensure that your dog receives a quality balance of probiotics is to give them raw dog food. The reason raw dog food is so beneficial in creating a quality probiotic balance is that the probiotic organisms occur naturally. By choosing to give your dog a food that has naturally occurring probiotics, you are able to ensure that your dog is always receiving a natural source of the probiotics that they need.
