The Best Probiotics For Dogs in 2024 According to a Veterinarian
Table of Contents
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What are Probiotics for Dogs?
“Probiotics are living microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host” – this definition from the World Health Organization depicts the true nature of probiotics and their tribute to health.
Basically, the dog’s digestive system is inhabited by billions of microorganisms – primarily bacteria but also yeasts. Some of them are good, and others are potential pathogens. Together these microorganisms are collectively called the microbiome, and under normal circumstances, they are in balance.
Sadly, many conditions and medications can throw this balance out of order for your dog. This is where probiotics for dogs prove beneficial. They support the growth of beneficial microorganisms, such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Enterococcus, and prevent potential pathogens from overgrowing and compromising digestive health and overall well-being.
Are Probiotics Safe for Dogs?
Yes, probiotics are perfectly safe for dogs. Using probiotics for your dog can help promote healthy bacteria and strengthen their immune system. It’s important to use high-quality pet-specific probiotics for your dog to ensure their efficiency and safety.
Do Probiotics for Dogs Need Prebiotics?
Yes, probiotics for dogs need prebiotics.
Probiotics work better when used together with prebiotics. Prebiotics or dietary fiber serves as food for the good bacteria, thus helping them grow and exert their beneficial effects. One of the simplest and best sources of prebiotics for dogs is pumpkin.
What are the Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs’ Immune System?
The benefits of probiotics for dogs are diverse and promising. Depending on the strains of bacteria included in the product, probiotics for dogs can help with the following:
- GI tract health and improved digestion. Probiotics for dogs help manage and prevent various digestive tract issues and improve the digestion processes, absorption of nutrients, and vitamin synthesis. They also aid in helping dogs digest food.
- Better stool quality and a balanced dog’s gut. Probiotics for dogs are the ideal anti-diarrhea supplements as they reduce both their duration and intensity. They can even reduce or eliminate the need for antibiotics for diarrhea management.
- Decreased risk of intestinal worms. Studies suggest that probiotics for dogs can be used to control hookworm infestations and are currently being studied to examine their effect on other parasites. The health benefits of probiotics extend to reducing the duration of diarrhea.
- Oral health and better breath. Certain probiotic strains help prevent dental disease in dogs, and others have proven antimicrobial effects. This leads to better oral hygiene and prevents bad breath.
- Stronger immune system and improved immune health. Probiotics for dogs have powerful immune-boosting features. When given to pregnant dogs, they can increase the immune power of the colostrum.
- Skin issues and allergies. Probiotics for dogs offer a novel perspective for managing dog skin problems. They can relieve the symptoms linked with food allergies and atopic dermatitis.
- Ear infections. Probiotics can help with ear infections because they release anti-inflammatory substances and can relieve dog itching.
- Better mood and relaxation. The presence of a gut-brain axis gave birth to the so-called behavioral probiotics or specific strains of bacteria that can prevent dog anxiety and improve the dog’s mood.
Do Vets Recommend Probiotics for Dogs?
Yes, vets recommend probiotics for dogs.
Here is what Dr. Walker, DVM says: “Yes, probiotics are recommended for dogs. I particularly recommend probiotics when there is a gastrointestinal disturbance, such as diarrhea secondary to eating something that they should not have, to reestablish normal/healthy gastrointestinal flora (bacteria).
I recommend Honest Paws Pre+Probiotic because it comes in powder packages with chicken flavors that are usually palatable to canines and easy to add to each meal. I recommend using them once a day for 5 consecutive days if there is a GI disturbance, but they could be used daily long term in patients that have sensitive gastrointestinal tract. “
The Best Probiotics for Dogs Reviewed
We understand that labels can be confusing and manufacturer claims often exaggerated. Therefore, we have thoroughly reviewed various probiotic supplements and selected the following products as the top five probiotics for dogs.
Honest Paws Pre+Probiotics for Dogs
Price: $24.95
Item Form: Powder
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: Chicken
Recommended Uses:
- Healthy digestion
- Immune system support
- Skin issues
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 (CFUs) per serving, the potent probiotic is available in pre-measured sachets for easy administering.
- Helps strengthen your dog’s gut health
- Supports the immune system and aids in longevity
- Improves mood and well-being
- Made from natural and organic ingredients
- Aids in treating digestive problems, such as constipation, and diarrhea, among others
- It is in powder form and has to be mixed with other treats or food
Ingredient List: Inulin, Solarplast (spinach leaf extract), Bacillus subtilis DE11, Bacillus coagulans, Bifidobacterium animalis lactis, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum
Customer Review: These probiotics for dogs with allergies are also great for GI tract issues and offer fast results through consistent use. The powder is able to dissolve quickly and is available in a tasteful form.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Honest Paws Pre+Probiotics an overall 10/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets. It is also Non-GMO, organic, and human-grade.
- Cost Effectiveness (10/10): The price of this product is perfectly aligned with its quality.
- Customer Feedback (10/10): All customer reviews are positive.
- Product Variety (6/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
The Honest Kitchen Instant Goat’s Milk with Probiotics
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Price: $14.99
Item Form: Powder
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: Goat’s Milk
Recommended Uses:
- Promoting gut health and digestion
- Boosting the immune system
Summary: The Honest Kitchen Instant Goat’s Milk with Probiotics is an excellent product suitable for dogs of all ages, including young puppies and seniors. It features highly-digestible dehydrated goat’s milk and as many as 1.25 billion active probiotics and bromelain as a digestive enzyme.
The product is minimally processed to retain most of the nutrients and is very easy to use – you can mix it with warm water and either pour it over regular food or serve it as a delicious treat. Customers can also get 30% off on their first orders of $30+ using code VETERINARIANS30.
- 30% off on first orders of $30+ using code VETERINARIANS30
- Supports a healthier gut and immune system
- Contains 1.25 billion active probiotics and digestive enzymes
- Is a great source of protein
- Human-grade
- Free from artificial preservatives, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy
- Has a less desirable smell which drove some pets not to consume it
Ingredient List: Dehydrated goat’s milk, Dried Aspergillus oryzae fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger product, Dried Trichoderma reesei fermentation product, Bromelain, Dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus rhamnosus fermentation product, Bacillus coagulans fermentation product
Customer Review: Pet owners are pleased with the effects of this probiotic-enriched goat’s milk. They say their dogs love the taste of the product, and it has helped with their poop issues. All customers agree the supplement is very straightforward to use.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving The Honest Kitchen Instant Goat’s Milk with Probiotics an overall 10/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is human-grade, has no artificial preservatives, and contains feed-grade by-products making it perfectly safe for pets.
- Cost Effectiveness (10/10): The price of this product is perfectly aligned with its quality.
- Customer Feedback (10/10): The customers find this product perfect and leave positive feedback.
- Product Variety (6/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
PetLab Co. Probiotics for Dogs
Price: $32.36
Item Form: Chews
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: Pork
Recommended Uses:
- Promoting gut health
- Aiding optimum heart function
- Supporting natural defenses
- Helping with occasional allergies
Summary: The PetLab Co. Dog Probiotic comes in the form of dog-friendly, pork-flavored soft chews that are suitable for all dogs over six months of age which is why it deserves a spot on our list.
The PetLab Co. Dog Probiotic features eight strains of live, beneficial bacteria. The product is loaded with antioxidants and has health-boosting ingredients like agave, honey, and salmon oil.
In addition to promoting gut health and digestion, the probiotic also supports heart function, boosts natural defenses, and may help with occasional allergies.
- Helps deliver digestive support
- Promotes healthy yeast production
- Encourage a normal immune response
- Easy-to-administer
- A bit expensive compared to other dog probiotics on the market
Ingredient List: 8-Blend probiotic (Bacillus coagulans, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Streptococcus thermophilus), Ascorbic acid, Chicory root, Coconut glycerin, Dried brewer’s yeast, Dried whey, Honey, Fructooligosaccharides, Mixed tocopherols, Molasses, Natural smoke flavor, Pork liver, Pork gelatin, Pumpkin powder, Salmon oil, Soy lecithin, Tapioca starch
Customer Review: Customers say that PetLab Co. is an excellent product and are really impressed with it. Some pet owners even describe the probiotic blend as a “lifesaver.” However, despite most dog owners agreeing on the quality of the product, there are some complaints about the hefty price tag.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving PetLab Co. Probiotics for Dogs an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (9/10): The product is HIGHLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets. It is also non-GMO, organic, and human-grade.
- Cost Effectiveness (9/10): The price of this product is greatly aligned with its quality.
- Customer Feedback (8/10): The majority of the customers’ reviews are positive.
- Product Variety (6/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
Vet’s Preferred Probiotic Supplement for Dogs
Price: $21.76
Item Form: Powder
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: Chicken
Recommended Uses:
- Supporting healthy gut
- Maintaining healthy intestines
- Supporting normal digestive function
Summary: The Vet’s Preferred probiotic and prebiotic supplement is on our top list because it is formulated and recommended by veterinary professionals. A vet-formulated blend of healthy bacteria and dietary fiber that helps support optimal digestion and a strong immune system.
The supplement is made in the USA, lab-tested, and grain-free. For easy use, it comes in a powder form that is packed in individual single-use sachets. The chicken flavor of the powder is dog-friendly.
- Helps maintain gut flora
- Aids in strengthening your dog’s immune system
- Classified as premium veterinarian-grade
- Paves the way for healthier digestion
- Not as easy to administer as it is in powder form
Ingredient List: Inulin, Solarplast (spinach leaf extract), Bacillus subtilis DE111, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Bacillus coagulans, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium animalis lactis
Customer Review: Customers say that the Vet’s Preferred blend is good for their dogs – it is beneficial and dogs love the taste, which makes the supplement easy to use. They also love the fact that the probiotic is suitable for dogs of different breeds, sizes, and ages. Plus, the individual sachets prevent overdosing.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Vet’s Preferred Probiotic Supplement for Dogs an overall 10/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made with non-GMO, organic, and human-grade ingredients.
- Cost Effectiveness (10/10): The cost of this product is perfectly aligned with its quality.
- Customer Feedback (10/10): The customer reviews are all positive. Pet owners are happy with the effectiveness of the probiotic.
- Product Variety (6/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
Open Farm Probiotic Supplement Chews for Dogs
Price: $34.99
Item Form: Soft Chew
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: Pumpkin and Ginger
Recommended Uses:
- Supporting gut flora & bowel movement
- Boosting digestion and nutrient absorption
- Promoting a healthy immune function
Summary: The Open Farm Probiotic Supplement Chews for Dogs are made with high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected and 100% traceable. The supplement is an excellent choice for dogs with digestive issues, as well as dogs that need immune system support.
- Supports normal gut flora and bowel movement
- Aids in treating tummy troubles and irregular digestion
- Contains 100% traceable and functional ingredients
- Vet-recommended
- Has a less desirable smell, hence coaxing is needed
It contains seven strains of probiotics and pumpkin, and ginger to ensure maximum gut health. The supplement is shipped fast, and there is a discount option for subscription plans.
Ingredient List: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bacillus coagulans
Customer Review: Customers are raving about this product. They say it has been a game changer for their dogs. They also love the traceable nature of the ingredients and the fact that the supplement is vet-recommended.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Open Farm Probiotic Supplement Chews for Dogs an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets. It is also non-GMO, organic, and human-grade.
- Cost Effectiveness (10/10): The price of this product is perfectly aligned with its quality.
- Customer Feedback (8/10): The majority of the customers’ reviews are positive.
- Product Variety (6/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
Four Leaf Rover Probiotics for Dogs
Price: $28.49
Item Form: Powder
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: N/A
Recommended Uses:
- Supporting healthy gut
- Enhancing brain function
- Supporting detoxification
Summary: Four Leaf Rover is our top pick for Most Options as it offers formulas for all dogs regardless of their unique needs and preferences.
The Four Leaf Rover Bifido for Fido has thirteen bacteria strains hand-picked by the manufacturer to provide resiliency in the dog’s digestive system.
They are also suitable for slowing down mental aging, giving the immune system a boost, and removing heavy metals from the body.
- Contains different bacteria strains
- Vet-formulated
- Does not contain maltodextrin
- Fortified with prebiotics
- Comes in a large box
- No info about the flavor
Ingredient List: FOS (Fructooligosaccharides), Organic Inulin from Jerusalem Artichoke, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidus animalis, Entercoccus faecium, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus Bulgaricus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus salivarius, Saccharomyces boulardii, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Customer Review: Customers are happy with the uniquely combined all-natural ingredients. They say the product is excellent for managing various digestive tract issues, and it helps improve stool quality and increase appetite. Customers also mention the black shade the dog poop gets after using the Four Leaf Rover Protect supplement.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Four Leaf Rover Bifido for Fido an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets. It is also non-GMO, organic, and human-grade.
- Cost Effectiveness (10/10): The price of this product is perfectly aligned with its quality.
- Customer Feedback (9/10): Most of the customers’ reviews are positive.
- Product Variety (6/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
NUSENTIA Probiotics for Dogs
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Price: $39.99
Item Form: Powder
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: N/A
Recommended Uses:
- Supporting digestion and GI tract health
- Helping with allergies and skin issues
- Promoting natural bodily defenses and immunity
Summary: NUSENTIA is a high-quality probiotic available at a budget-friendly price which is why we rate it as the Best Value probiotic for dogs. The NUSENTIA Probiotic is a potent mix of six live bacteria strains from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium family and FOS (inulin) prebiotic.
It supports a healthy gut and digestion, but it also helps with bad breath, dog skin problems, coat quality, and yeast infections. The NUSENTIA Probiotic is affordable and an excellent choice for multi-dog households.
- Free of sugar, soy, wheat, and byproducts
- Contains premium ingredients to support wellness for dogs and cats
- Helps eliminate diarrhea, excessive yeast, loose stool, and skin issues
- Improves breath and body smell
- Is in powder form and easily gets clumped after a month or so
Ingredient List: Inulin, Bifidobacterium animalis lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus reuteri
Customer Review: Happy customers say that the NUSENTIA Probiotic helps dogs with GI tract issues after as little as several days of use and that the positive impact on gut health is not limited to a specific age category. Some customers also say that the supplement proved beneficial for dogs with ear infections.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving NUSENTIA Probiotics for Dogs an overall 8/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (8/10): The product is suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (8/10): This product is made from standard quality ingredients and is generally safe for pets.
- Cost Effectiveness (8/10): The price of this product is well-aligned with its quality.
- Customer Feedback (6/10): A fair number of customer reviews are positive. However, several unhappy reports on the product were made.
- Product Variety (6/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
Purina FortiFlora Probiotics for Dogs
Price: $30.98
Item Form: Powder
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: Liver
Recommended Uses:
- Promoting healthy gut and intestines
- Supporting the immune system
Summary: Purina FortiFlora is Best for Digestion because it contains good bacteria that help with food processing, thus ensuring proper GI tract functioning. The Purina FortiFlora Probiotic was the number one vet-recommended formula in 2019.
It contains guaranteed levels of good bacteria (Enterococcus faecium), vitamins, and minerals. The product is conveniently packed in single-dose sachets, and one box will satisfy your dog’s need for probiotics for one full month.
- Promotes normal intestinal microflora
- Helps reduce flatulence
- Helps dogs with a sensitive stomach
- Has little to no residue and doesn't have an off-putting smell
- Packets of this product aren't as full as expected
Ingredient List: Animal digest, Enterococcus faecium, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate, Brewers dried yeast, Vitamin E supplement, Zinc proteinate, Beta-carotene, Salt, Manganese proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper proteinate, Calcium iodate, Sodium selenite
Customer Review: Satisfied customers say that the Purina FortiFlora Probiotic supplement is a miracle worker. According to them, a single dose offers relief and improvement for various GI issues, including loose stool, gassiness, and dog diarrhea. Customers also say that the powder is easy to use, and even picky eaters like its flavor.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Purina FortiFlora Probiotics for Dogs an overall 10/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is non-GMO, organic, and human-grade. It is also made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets.
- Cost Effectiveness (10/10): Affordable price & excellent product quality
- Customer Feedback (10/10): The customers of this product left a positive impression.
- Product Variety (4/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
Plano Paws Probiotic Tummy Treats for Dogs
Price: $28.49
Item Form: Soft Chew
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: Chicken
Recommended Uses:
- Supporting digestive health
- Boosting the immune system
- Managing specific skin issues
Summary: The Plano Paws Probiotic Tummy Treats for Dogs is our best pick for a probiotic supplement for dogs of all ages. The supplement features probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes blended in soft chews with a delicious and dog-friendly chicken flavor.
The chews are non-GMO and free from corn, soy, and wheat. Each pack has 120 chews and comes with a lifetime guarantee. Also, the product is made in the USA.
- Contains all-natural ingredients
- Free from sugar, grain, corn, wheat, soy, and gumming agents
- Supports your dog’s overall digestive function
- Packed with organic prebiotics to support your dog's gut flora
- Some pets don't like the taste of the product
Ingredient List: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus lactis, Enzyme blend (amylase, protease, lipase, cellulase, hemicellulase, papain, bromelain), Chicory root
Customer Review: Pet parents are pleased with this supplement and give it 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon ratings. They say their dogs do not have bad breath and stopped scooting after using the product.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Plano Paws Probiotic Tummy Treats for Dogs an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets. It is also non-GMO, organic, and human-grade.
- Cost Effectiveness (10/10): Affordable price & excellent product quality
- Customer Feedback (9/10): Most of the customers give a positive review of this product.
- Product Variety (4/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
Doggie Dailies Probiotics for Dogs
Price: $28.22
Item Form: Chews
Lifestage: Dogs of all ages
Flavor: Pumpkin
Recommended Uses:
- Nourishing gut bacteria
- Supporting digestion
- Promoting overall health
Summary: The Doggie Dailies Probiotics for Dogs features an advanced formula that blends probiotics with prebiotics, thus deserving a spot on our list.
The probiotic supplement comes in the form of soft and pumpkin-flavored chews that are easy to dose and give. It helps with digestion, immunity function, and overall health. In simple words, the blend helps dogs stay in peak condition. Each product package counts as many as 225 chews.
- Supports overall well-being
- Easy-to-administer
- Promotes stronger intestinal health
- Assists in the digestion and absorption of essential nutrients
- Some pets dislike the taste and smell of this product
Ingredient List: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus lactis, Pea flour, Garbanzo flour, Flaxseed meal, Lecithin, Duck, Mono-and Diglycerides with citric acid, Egg powder, Cod liver oil, Salmon oil, Glycerin, Carrot, Fructooligosaccharide, Mixed tocopherols, Rosemary extract, Crystalline cellulose, Sorbic acid
Customer Review: Customers are delighted with this supplement. Its overall rating on Amazon is 4.4 out of 5 stars. Pet owners describe probiotics as a miracle and a great product. Most users mention an improvement in their dogs’ stool quality with consistent use.
Total.vet Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Doggie Dailies Probiotics for Dogs an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:
- Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
- Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets. It is also non-GMO, organic, and human-grade.
- Cost Effectiveness (9/10): Affordable price & great product quality
- Customer Feedback (8/10): The majority of the customers’ reviews are positive. But few of them left unhappy feedback.
- Product Variety (6/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe, but the brand offers other products for dogs and cats.
When Should You Give Your Dog Probiotics?
You can give probiotics to dogs when there is an ongoing imbalance in the gut microbiome or preventively before the imbalance occurs. In other terms, you should give your dog probiotics in the scenarios listed below:
- There are gastrointestinal issues that can benefit from good bacteria
- If your pup has diarrhea or you suspect it will develop it soon
- In the case of allergy-triggered skin issues and ear infections
- When the dog’s immune system needs a healthy and natural boost
- During long-term use of antibiotics.
What Time of Day Should I Give My Dog Probiotics?
Ideally, you should give your dog probiotics early in the morning before breakfast.
While there is no rule about the timing, most experts believe it is best to give probiotics in the morning because, at this time, there is the least amount of gastric acid in the dog’s stomach. This means the bacteria’s travel to the intestines will be safer.
However, veterinarians agree that consistent use of probiotics is more important than following a strict dosing schedule.
How Long Should a Dog Take a Probiotic?
The length of the use of probiotics depends on the dog’s overall health and the underlying condition. Some dogs need occasional supplementation (using probiotics on an as-needed basis), while others benefit from the continuous use of probiotics.
If you are not sure whether you should discontinue the use of probiotics, it is best to consult with your trusted veterinarian.
What are the Types of Probiotics for Dogs?
Which probiotics for dogs are best for your pup depends on its unique needs. Different probiotic strains come with different health perks. Therefore, it might be best to get a formula that involves various strains of probiotics for dogs, including some of the following:
- Enterococcus faecium helps manage stress-triggered diarrhea and has an immune-stimulating effect in young pups (protects from common pathogens like Escherichia coli and Salmonella).
- Bifidobacterium animalis supports a healthy gut and intestines and is perfect for managing idiopathic dog diarrhea. It also helps dogs recover after prolonged use of antibiotics.
- Lactobacillus casei has strong anti-inflammatory properties and a proven bactericidal effect against potential pathogens. It is also beneficial for mood improvement.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus provides immune support, helps manage food and skin allergies and their symptoms, and prevents unwanted yeast overgrowth.
- Lactobacillus plantarum is a highly resistant microorganism that survives the conditions in the dog’s digestive system, manages diarrhea, and promotes dog liver health.
- Lactobacillus acidophilus supports the digestive system on various levels and helps with dermatitis symptoms and managing allergic reactions to food.
- Lactobacillus fermentum has an inhibitory effect on certain bad bacteria and provides symptomatic relief from urinary infections and various gastrointestinal issues.
- Bacillus coagulans is a spore-forming bacterium that helps with different forms of diarrhea, including traveler’s and antibiotic-triggered. By forming spores, it protects the lining of the intestines.
- Saccharomyces boulardii is a healthy yeast robust for managing chronic enteropathies and antibiotic-triggered diarrhea. It also has immune-boosting features.
What Should I Look for in Probiotics for Dogs?
When choosing probiotics for dogs there are several things to consider. Here is a closer look at those factors:
- Bacteria Strains. The first thing is to check the type of bacteria in the supplement. Some probiotics for dogs have one and others have several different strains of beneficial bacteria.
- Colony Forming Units (CFUs). CFUs measure the number of beneficial bacteria in the supplement. In general, the higher the CFU of the supplement, the better its quality.
- Added Ingredients. In addition to good bacteria, some probiotic supplements feature added ingredients such as prebiotics or dietary fiber, fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
- Supplement Form. Probiotics for dogs come in different forms such as powders, capsules, liquids, and edibles (chews). You should get the type that is easiest to give.
- Probiotic Flavor. To ensure straightforward use, manufacturers add flavors to the dog probiotics. Popular flavors are bacon, beef, and chicken. Choose the flavor your dog likes best.
- Brand. Finally, pay attention to the probiotic brand. A trustworthy brand will be open about its ingredients and practices. It will also feature reviews from previous customers.
Are Human Probiotics the Same as Dog Probiotics?
No, human probiotics for dogs are not the same as dog probiotics.
The main differences between human and dog probiotics are the type of bacteria and the number of live bacteria. This is because the dog’s gut bacteria is different than the human’s.
Specific probiotics or bacterial strains are present in both dogs and humans. However, they will be present in much higher numbers (colony forming units – CFU) in the human supplement than they would be in dog probiotics.
Another difference is in the added ingredients. Namely, human probiotics often feature ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Human supplements may contain xylitol – an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs.
Can Dogs Take Human Probiotics?
Yes, dogs can take human probiotics as long as they do not contain ingredients that are dangerous to dogs. However, when it comes to human probiotics for dogs, they are not as effective as dog probiotics.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut and GI tract. They can help with health issues like constipation, dog diarrhea, bloating, bad dog breath, and also obese dogs.
Other benefits of probiotics for dogs also include adequate digestive tract function, a strengthened immune system, and reduced stress.
To ensure these benefits, your dog needs the right probiotic. Supporting gut health and preventing digestive issues is harder if using human probiotics for dogs instead of dog probiotics.
What’s the Difference Between Human-Grade Probiotics and Human Probiotics for Dogs?
Human-grade probiotics are dog probiotics made with high-quality ingredients or ingredients that pass all the requirements for human consumption. Generally speaking, the best probiotics for dogs are made with human-grade ingredients.
On the other hand, human probiotics are supplements formulated explicitly for humans. They have good bacteria that are specific to the human GI tract and digestive health.
In simple words, the main difference between human-grade probiotics and human probiotics is in the type of probiotics (healthy microbes) within the supplement.
What are the Side Effects of Probiotics for Dogs?
According to a 2010 study, “Safety and Tolerance of Dietary Supplementation With a Canine-Derived Probiotic (Bifidobacterium animalis Strain AHC7) Fed to Growing Dogs,” probiotics for dogs are “well tolerated with no safety concerns.”
However, same as any other supplement, they can cause side effects in overly sensitive pets. Luckily, the side effects are mild and transient and usually revolve around GI tract upsets – loose stool or constipation, bloating, and gassiness.
The chances of developing side effects are higher when introducing new strains or switching probiotic brands. Side effects are also more likely to occur if the supplementation includes high doses, sudden implementation, and low-quality probiotics for dogs.
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 dog’s 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.
How Much Probiotics Should I Give My Dog a Day?
According to Joseph J. Wakshlag, DVM, Ph.D. from Cornell University, dogs need between 1 and 10 billion CFUs of probiotics per day.
However, the exact amount depends on the dog’s body weight, overall health, and the underlying reason for using probiotics. While some dogs benefit from regular, daily use of probiotics, others do well with occasional supplementation.
Before using probiotics for dogs, read the instructions and dosage guidelines on the package. If unsure, consult with your trusted veterinarian.
How can I Give My Dog Probiotics?
First of all, we should note that some commercial dog food formulas contain added probiotics. However, if your dog needs an additional boost, the number of live cultures in the dog food is not enough.
In such cases, you need to consider probiotics for dogs in the form of supplements. Luckily, there are different forms of probiotics for dogs – powders, capsules, liquids, soft chews, and treats. This gives you the freedom to choose which option is best for you and your pup.
You can also use some natural sources of probiotics for dogs like yogurt and kefir. For optimal results, add a supplement product to your dog’s regimen and occasionally enrich its meals with natural probiotics for dogs.
Are Probiotics for Dogs Worth it?
Yes, probiotics for dogs are worth it.
Probiotics for dogs promote gut health and intestinal motility, they improve nutrient absorption and make poop scooping much easier.
They also help with issues such as bad breath and skin conditions. Based on the specific probiotic strains in the supplement they can even boost immune function, thus supporting overall health.