Probiotics for dogs are supplements containing live bacteria or yeast that promote the health of your pup’s digestive and immune systems. Plus, probiotics may prevent gastrointestinal illnesses like diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome from developing in some dogs.
Probiotic products for dogs come in various forms, such as powders, liquids, and chews. Selecting the correct type of probiotic for your pup can be confusing, so consult your veterinarian first.
Probiotics for dogs commonly consist of lactic acid bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. These beneficial bacteria convert milk sugar into lactic acid, effectively stopping harmful bacteria from growing in your pup’s gut.
These species can be found in yogurts and other fermented foods like kefir and kimchi. Be sure to read the label carefully and select a product that contains no artificial sweeteners or dairy products.
Some probiotics have been shown to reduce anxiety in dogs, though the subject hasn’t been thoroughly researched yet. Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (Bacillus CECT 5940) is one such bacteria that can survive the gastrointestinal tract and colonize your dog’s intestines, helping boost their bacterial populations.
Other lactic acid bacteria, such as P. acidilactici, have also been studied for their potential beneficial effect on canine GI diseases. It may help prevent or control conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and leaky gut.
Saccharomyces boulardii is a yeast that’s been scientifically proven to treat and prevent digestive issues in dogs, such as chronic diarrhea. Plus, it’s safe and effective when combined with antibiotic use.
When selecting probiotics for your pup, there are plenty of choices to choose from, and each has its own distinct advantages. Research which one is right for your dog, and you may need to experiment with several before finding one that works best.
Before you decide which probiotic is for your dog, ensure it contains a large number of colony-forming units (CFUs). Healthy dogs should look for products with between 10 billion and 50 billion CFUs of live bacteria. If your pup has digestive or immune issues, an increased dose may be necessary.
Some probiotics come in capsule form, making it easier for you to give them to your pup. Some dogs have difficulty swallowing pills and may spit them out, so try giving them with soft food or treats like yogurt instead.
Probiotics come in powder and liquid forms that you can sprinkle directly into your dog’s food or mix with water. These tend to be more effective for dogs than capsules, so be sure to ask your vet which form is best suited for you and your pup.
Chews are also an option, and you have a wide range of flavors to choose from. These probiotics usually taste just like your pup’s favorite foods, making them much more likely to eat them than pills or capsules would.
