What are probiotics?

Probiotics are formulas that contain living microorganisms, usually bacteria (but sometimes other microorganisms such as yeast), that are consumed to improve health.

The goal of ingesting probiotic substances is to bring the gut microbiota back to a state of balance after it has been disrupted by antibiotic treatment or other disturbances.

However, probiotics can also be used to maintain a healthy gut and prevent gastrointestinal issues. Most probiotic organisms are lactic-acid bacteria, which means they can ferment (or break down) sugars into lactic acid. It is thought that these species colonize the intestine during early life and allow other symbiotic bacteria to take residence as an individual grows into adulthood.

Why are probiotics important for dogs?

Human and animal intestines are a haven for microorganisms. Here, microbes have a place to grow and they, in turn, help their host process nutrients, mount effective immune responses, and fight off invading pathogens and ensuring optimal health.

The relationship between animals and their gut microbiome is carefully balanced: overgrowth or absence of specific bacterial strains has been associated with various health problems. An imbalance of the beneficial bacteria found in the gut microbiome is linked to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and diarrhea and can cause ongoing health problems for your dog.

Could ingesting live bacteria, in the form of probiotics, bring the microbiome back to balance and help relieve digestive issues?

Most studies have investigated these links in humans, but recent research in pets has rapidly increased, with scientists building a better picture of our pets’ gut microbiomes so they can improve treatments—which could include probiotics.

Animal microbiomes naturally oscillate among various states. For example, microbes follow our circadian rhythms and pregnancy also shifts the microbiome.

But sometimes changes are not in favor of health. Pets can suffer from gastrointestinal (GI) distress that is tied to shifts in the types of bacteria that dominate their microbiome. For example, inflammatory bowel disease is linked to microbiomes that look different than healthy individuals, as is chronic diarrhea.

If symptoms caused by bad bacteria are outcompeting beneficial ones, then the introduction of specific beneficial strains may help keep or restore a healthy, balanced microbiome. Further, the risks associated with probiotic use are extremely low. And dogs with acute diarrhea may have lower diversity in their microbiomes. In this case, supplementing your dog’s diet with probiotics can help.

When should we use a canine probiotic?

If your dog is experiencing weight issues, digestive, skin or any signs of stress to the immune system you should consider trying probiotics. Also, if your dog has recently had a course of antibiotics it is a good idea to supplements with a probiotic to restore optimal gut health.

You can also test your dog’s microbiome to tailor your dog’s treatment and see how your pet’s microbiome compares to a healthy gut.

What kind of probiotics should you use?

Most probiotics are composed of lactic acid bacteria, such as Lactobacilliand Bifidobacteria. These strains can survive the acidic environment of the stomach—which would otherwise kill incoming bacteria—and can colonize animal intestines. 

Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria may be important for initial colonization of animal guts, setting the stage for other strains to take hold. They can help facilitate changes to the gut environment that help beneficial bacteria thrive over detrimental ones. Saccharomyces boulardii, a species of yeast, has also been shown to decrease gastrointestinal symptoms in dogs with gastrointestinal disease, making it a favorable choice for probiotic formulas.

While most studies evaluating the effectiveness of probiotics in GI disease have been done in humans, research in pets has recently expanded. Two studies in dogs found that introducing L. acidophilus as a probiotic led to increases in lactobacilli in the fecal microbiome, showing that the bacteria can indeed colonize and lead to changes in the microbiome.

Moreover, in a small study of dogs suffering from acute diarrhea, symptoms were resolved faster in those that were given a probiotic cocktail. Studies in shelter dogs also suggest that probiotics may have a prophylactic effect, preventing them from developing stress-related diarrhea. 

Our Top 4 Picks: The Best Probiotics for Dogs

NomNomNow GI Targeted Probiotics for Dogs – $45

  • Helps rebalance and restore a healthy microflora to improve stool quality and improve overall digestive health
  • Contains 20 billion CFUs & 5 probiotic strains per serving targeted specifically to manage GI issues
  • With prebiotic fiber for added beneficial bacteria development
  • Made with human grade ingredients at FDA registered facilities under GMP guidelines, each batch independently tested for product integrity
  • Expertly formulated by a veterinary nutrition and microbiology team
  • Appropriate for all breeds, puppies (older than 8 weeks) to adults.

VetriScience Probiotic GI Health Soft Chews $12

  • Made with 9 strains of probiotics, soluble fibers and prebiotics to support regularity.
  • Encourages digestive consistency, lessens gas and minimize bloating.
  • Probiotics also provide the added benefit of promoting immune system function.
  • Highly palatable duck-flavored soft chews are easy to feed to your dog as a treat or reward.
  • Safe for everyday use and designed for all weight ranges to promote gastrointestinal health.

Dr. Lyon’s Probiotic Health Dog Supplement $19

  • Daily probiotic supplement that helps support healthy digestive function in dogs of all sizes. Dried chicken liver is added for flavor and palatability.
  • Delivers four live, active cultures that are naturally occurring to help maintain your dog’s normal microflora.
  • Formulated to help maintain proper intestinal health and a strong immune system.
  • Great to use for travel, boarding or while transitioning your pet to a new diet.
  • Comes in a delicious powder in pre-measured, single-serve packets, so it’s easy to sprinkle on top of your dog’s regular meals.

Heed Cod + Peas + Apple Dog Food

  • This isn’t a supplement but a complete and balanced diet containing rebiotics and probiotics help your dog digest his food, while keeping bad bacteria at bay.
  • 2x the nutrient absorption of traditional dog food brands, resulting in optimal stool quality.
  • Essential vitamins promote growth, tissue development, and a healthy metabolism.
  • Chelated minerals are essential to metabolic function and the absorption of nutrients.

Are you looking for a simple + healthy alternative to your current dog food? Read our review on dog food subscriptions and get up to 50% off your first order here!