Probiotics are good bacteria that work in the gut. They are known for helping with digestive issues in people but they can also be very helpful for dogs.
Probiotics for dogs are different than those for humans so it’s important to make sure you select the right one for your pet. They can help with many stomach issues and help make your dog healthier overall. There are several signs to look for when deciding if your dog could benefit from probiotics including: skin issues, a dull coat and weight problems.
Probiotics that are formulated especially for dogs are made to allow for specific good bacteria to grow in the dog’s stomach. Humans and dogs have different intestinal bacteria so it’s important to find a canine specific probiotic for your dog to get the best results.
The Science behind Dog Probiotics
This is the way it works: probiotics enter the gut where it then multiplies quickly to improve the overall environment which leads to a stronger overall immune system. In the intestines, the good bacteria will help make anything from vitamins to different enzymes but most importantly, reduce the number of bad bacteria. Probiotics can be especially important if your dog has been on medications like antibiotics which can greatly deplete the good bacteria in the gut and lead to intestinal and digestive problems.
There are many benefits to using dog probiotics. It can help with everything from allergies to yeast infections to outward appearance. They also help your dog feel better overall and give them more energy throughout the day. Another thing they do is help dogs with canine halitosis or bad breath. However, one of the most important benefits of probiotics is the regulation of bowel issues. Problems like constipation, gas and diarrhea can be lessened or eliminated with the regular use of canine probiotics.
Does My Dog Need Probiotics?
How would you know if your dog needs probiotics? There are certain signs you should look out for to let you know if your furry friend can benefit from them. The following are things to look for:
- Lethargy
- Dull coat
- Allergies
- Frequent vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Underweight/overweight
This list is by no means exhaustive; but these are indications that something is wrong with your dog and probiotics may help alleviate these issues. As always, consult with a professionally trained veterinarian for the best course of action to take.
Picking the Right Canine Probiotics
Look for dog probiotics as human probiotics are not meant for canines. A good supplement should list the specific strains of bacteria it contains and should have at least ten different strains. Different strains perform different jobs in the body so a variety is important. Also check for CFUs, or colony forming units, on the supplements. A quality one will have at least 20 million CFUs per gram. Ensure that the supplement is stored appropriately; in order for probiotics to be effective, they must remain refrigerated and kept away from sunlight and heat.
Conclusion
If your dog is experiencing any of the issues listed above, you should consider giving them a probiotic supplement. It can help with many common problems and can actually make your dog feel better overall. I strongly advise consulting with a veterinarian first who knows your dog’s history and can recommend the best probiotic suited for your best friend.
