Probiotics are friendly bacteria. Dogs and animals have lots of them in their stomach to help fight infections, make the immune system powerful, help digest food and make vitamins and nutrients. This is known as the microbiome and a healthy dog needs a healthy microbiome.
Changes in the microbiome can make dogs sick in diverse ways. This can comprise:
- Allergies
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Obesity
- Bloating
- Cramping
- General poor health
- Bad breath
- Upset stomach
These changes can be caused by several things, including:
- Changes in food
- Antibiotics
- Stress
- Weaning
- Infections
- High carbohydrate diet
- Parasites
- Eating spoiled food
If your dog appears to get sick frequently, it can be caused by changes in its microbiome. It is a good idea to talk to your vet.
Types of the best probiotic for dogs
Different types of best probiotics for dogs are there, including food-based, powders, and pills.
- Dog foods with probiotics: Some dog foods have added probiotics. This may be an easier way to give your best probiotic for dogs. It is essential to also look for probiotics in the food that will nourish the friendly bacteria. Bacteria are sensitive to air, temperature, and moisture. This means the way dog food is made, how probiotics are added, and the type of food can all change the quality of the food and probiotics.
- Foods with dog probiotics: A good source of natural probiotics for dogs is yogurt or kefir with live cultures. At times certain brands use cultures to make yogurt or kefir, and they are not probiotics. Yogurt and kefir may also include artificial sweeteners, which can be unsafe for dogs. Dogs must eat plain yogurt with no artificial sweeteners.
- Probiotic treats: Soft treats that include probiotics may be the simplest way to offer your dog a dose of them. Some treats do not include live probiotics and may also have additives and additional preservatives.
- Powders: Powdered probiotics are also present. Live probiotics in individual pockets are thought to be better. This controls exposure to air and moisture. Powdered probiotics may be harder to give to your dog.
A healthy balance of bacteria is essential for healthy dogs. Probiotics for dogs have advantages that can help your dog digest food, make and absorb vitamins and minerals, and keep a powerful immune system.
Some research shows that offering friendly bacteria to your dog can help improve the following:
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Bad breath
- Obesity
- Allergies
While probiotics are a popular supplement pet owners give their dogs, there might be potential yet rare side effects, including vomiting and diarrhea. To get rid of these side effects, talk with your vet about how to best introduce probiotics to your dog.
