What are probiotics for dogs?
Probiotics for dogs explained
There are many benefits to giving your dog probiotics. But first, we must explain what probiotics are and then we will talk about what they do.
Probiotics are live microorganisms, which consist mainly of bacteria and some yeasts that live in the gastrointestinal system.
These healthy gut bacteria balance the internal environment to prevent disease and promote health and well being in your pet.
Probiotics that have been proven to work and are safe for dogs include strains such as:
- Bifidbacterium animalis subsp. lactis
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis
- Enterococcus Faecium
A probiotic doesn’t need to include every bacteria strain listed above to work, but it should contain at least one or two of them.
What are the benefits of giving your dog probiotics?
A major part of your pet’s health derives from the intestine. The ‘healthy gut’ is known to be crucial for the physiology and wellbeing of your dog.
Any disturbances within the gut microbiota may lead to the development of a multitude of diseases and disorders e.g. diarrhea, allergies, obesity, and stress symptoms.
Your body is full of trillions of different types of bacteria, viruses and fungi, collectively known as the microbiome, and just like us our dogs have their very own.
But are probiotics good for dogs? The short answer is yes, probiotics provide benefits to the bacteria in the digestive system, balancing out the microbiome so that gut health can be maintained.
A healthy balance of bacteria is important for your dog’s immunity.
There are certain signs to look out for indicating your dog’s gut is unbalanced.
What are the symptoms to look out for when your dog’s gut is out of balance?
There’s a range of health issues that can arise when the microflora (or good bacteria) in your dog’s gut is unbalanced, so here’s a few signs to look out for:
- Gas
- Diarroea
- Constipation (hard stools)
- Bloating
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- UTI’s
- Yeast infections
- Ear infections or smells
- Bad breath
- Skin issues or loss of fur
- Overweight/obese or underweight
- Behavioral/mood disorders
Probiotics can help with your dog’s general wellbeing, but it’s important to consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned.
It’s always good to check if there’s something more sinister going on if your pooch is really unhappy.
What are the causes of unbalanced bacteria for dogs?
There’s a range of external and internal factors that can lead to your dog’s unbalanced gut.
Bacteria shifts in the digestive system can be caused by some of the following:
- Ageing
- Toxins
- Drugs/medications
- Antibiotics
- A high starch or carbohydrate diet
- A high fat diet
- Drinking water
- Sleeping/living hygiene
What’s the best type of probiotic to give your dog?
The type of probiotic you give your dog really depends on their individual health and needs.
Probiotics for dogs come in many forms.
How long does it take for probiotics to work in dogs?
Every dog is different. Some dogs respond in a day or two, and others may take up to 6 weeks with regular use. If you’re not seeing improvement by a few weeks, you may have the wrong product or you may need to change your dosage.
One thing you need to know is that giving your dog a human probiotic probably won’t help with their health and wellbeing.
Probiotics and postbiotics for pets come in different strains and there are some strains better suited for humans and some that are better suited to animals, or more specifically dogs.
If your dog loves to get treats – you can find some clean treats with the added benefit of probiotics. Trust us, your dog will be begging for more!
Alternatively, you can get probiotic broths or powders that can be added to their regular meals and your furry friend will be getting all the benefits without even realising it!
Another way dogs can get a dose of probiotics, especially if they are having skin/fur issues, is via a probiotic enhanced shampoo.
Ipromea is powered by Probiotics Australia, see more info here: https://www.probioticsaustralia.com.au/pet-and-animal-health/#pet-probiotics
Gut health for your dog should be a top priority
With their digestive system making up around 80% of their immune defense, gut health for your dog should be a top priority.
Gastrointestinal disorders are one of the main reasons owners bring their pets to the vet for healthcare.
As you know, owning a pet can be expensive. Especially if there are any health complications.
That’s why giving your dog probiotics should be one of your top priorities, because it means keeping your dog healthy, improving their immune system and general health.
A probiotic can help restore and maintain this balance of good and bad bacteria and let the digestive system operate at its full potential.
Not only are you providing benefits to your dog if you give them probiotics, but you are also benefiting from them too.
The health and well-being of your dog, just as their owner, depends on the gut microbes.
We share a large proportion of microbiota with our pets living in the same household.
Sharing bad bacteria can lead to problems for everybody – furry family members and all.
It’s time to restore you dog’s natural microbiome from head to tail and everywhere in between.
For more information about quality Australian made and manufactured probiotics for pets products, please view Ipromea’s range here: https://ipromea.com.au/products/
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