How do I give my dog a probiotic? Expert Advice

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If you have ever eaten yogurt with live cultures, you may have taken a probiotic. The term refers to beneficial or “friendly” gut-dwelling microbes (bacteria and yeasts). There are billions of them in the gastrointestinal system of all animals, and they aid in the digestion of food, fight off potential pathogens, make nutrients and vitamins, and bolster the immune system. The word itself is derived from the Latin word “for” (pro) and the Greek “life” (bio). Probiotics for dogs are a nutritional tool to consider for the health of your best friend.

Sometimes beneficial microbes are damaged or destroyed, and that can cause stomach upset and a general decline in health. If your dog is suffering from diarrhea or related issues or seems to get sick more than other dogs for no apparent reason, your veterinarian may suggest using one of the methods to boost beneficial bacteria:

  • Prebiotics are nutrients that are designed to nourish and promote the growth of good bacteria that are already living in the colon.
  • Probiotics, also referred to as “direct-fed microbials” by the pet-food regulatory body AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials).

    • These products come in several different forms, including:

  • Yogurt or kefir with live cultures. Keep in mind that not all yogurt cultures are created equal. Some of the cultures were used for the manufacture of the product, but are not probiotics. Only offer your dog unsweetened, plain yogurt, and read labels carefully to avoid all artificial sweeteners.
  • Powders, such as Purina ProPlan FortiFlora
  • Capsules
  • Chews
  • Dog foods

    • These products usually contain kinds of bacteria normally found in the canine gut, such as:

  • Lactobacillus acidophilus
  • Enterococcus faecium
  • Bifidobacterium lactis
  • Lactobacillus casei
  • Bifidobacterium breve

    • What Are the Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs?

    Studies have shown1 that certain species of probiotics may have specific benefits for dogs.

    Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can help to:

  • Manage yeast and support the immune system
  • Prevent anxiety
  • Reduce stress
  • Affect mood and emotions
  • Improve diarrhea and food allergies

    • Bacillus species can also support the immune response.

    Reasons Your Dog May Require Probiotics

    There is growing evidence to support the use of probiotics for dogs. Signs your dog may need a probiotic supplement include:

    How to make Probiotics for you and your pet

    Probiotics is a hot topic for dog owners these days. Is there evidence to show probiotics actually helps dogs, and if so, what type of probiotics should we be giving them?

    Today’s blog post will help you sort out the details when it comes to probiotics for dogs.