Even the healthiest pup can end up with an upset tummy. A slight change in routine, an antibiotic round, or a moment of stress can disrupt the good bacteria in your dog’s gut. When those gut bacteria are no longer balanced, they create a negative environment that, more often than not, leads to loose stools, gurgling tummies, itchy skin, or an all-around reduction in zest for life.

That’s where probiotics come into play. These live microorganisms (often described as “good” or “helpful” bacteria) help balance a disrupted digestive system so your pup can go back to barking up a storm.

But are they always necessary? What should every dog owner know before adding a probiotic chew to the daily routine?

What Are Probiotics for Dogs?

Probiotics are essentially reinforcements for good gut bacteria. They’re live microorganisms primarily strains of bacteria and yeast that make up a healthy digestive tract. In layman’s terms, they’re the good bugs that come in and crowd out the bad bugs, keeping your dog’s digestion functioning.

Probiotics are not the same as prebiotics. Prebiotics are more like food that nourishes the good bugs already present in the gut prebiotics come from dietary fibre. Probiotics are the good bugs.

Where do you find probiotics? You can find them in:

• Formulated probiotic supplements made specifically for dogs
• Vet-recommended probiotic powders/chews/capsules
• Fermented foods (note: most human foods are not recommended for dogs without checking first).

Why Gut Health Is Important for Dogs

Gut health seems like something that would only concern digestion, but there’s a lot more happening inside a dog’s belly than just the process of food. A balanced gut does much behind-the-scenes work strengthening the immune system, aiding nutrient absorption, even contributing to mood and behavior.

When something happens and the balance is interrupted, however, dogs experience a lot more than just gurgling guts. For example, itchy skin, reduced energy output and disinterest in food can occur when bad bacteria dominate or when things are highly stressful. For some pups, stress-induced upsets occur with trips to the groomer/kennel/vet and travel conditions or loud noises that trigger anxiety.

When guts aren’t balanced, they signal distress and that distress manifests in ways you’d typically never expect. Certain dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Boxers, and Schnauzers are particularly prone to gut issues and should be given extra attention. 

Top Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs

If you source the right probiotics for your dog, there may be several benefits by adding these helpful bacteria to your pup’s diet. These benefits stem from the strain, dosage and unique to each dog’s personal health but here are some of the most reported:

• Keeps digestion moving
  Dogs with sensitive tummies/occasional bouts of diarrhea often benefit when their gut bacteria level out again through probiotics. Probiotics can help firm things up and reduce unpleasant messes on the morning walk.
• Helps after antibiotic rounds
  While antibiotics kill off bad bacteria (infection-causing potential), they also wipe out good bacteria. Probiotics help refill the gut with good bacteria faster, reducing recovery time.
• Supports immune system strength
  The connection between a dog’s gut and immune system is undeniable; a healthy balance has been shown to keep puppies more protected from illness/bugs/flairs.
• Helps with itchy skin/allergy problems
  Studies suggest probiotics can reduce severity in skin problems/allergic reactions as it strengthens the gut lining (also an effective barrier) and immune response.
• Eases stress-induced digestive problems
  Dogs under stress (from travel, loud house guests or changes in routine) sometimes suffer from digestive distress; a healthy gut is better able to handle these stressors.

Signs Your Dog May Need Probiotics

Sometimes you don’t need a microscope to determine that your dog’s gut is out of whack; your dog’s body gives red flags and many of them show up in daily signals:

• Frequent soft stools/diarrhea
  If your dog is making piles that resemble puddles or they’re regular occurrences it could mean something is off in the gut and poop production needs assistance.
• Foul-smelling gas
  It’s normal for all pups to have gas. However, when your dog’s gas raises eyebrows (and paint) something may be amiss.
• Reduced appetite/picky eating
  Some dogs shy away from food if their stomachs don’t feel quite right. This isn’t always behavioral; it can start in the gut.
• History of antibiotics/sensitive digestion
  If your dog has been on antibiotics or if you’ve noted they struggle with mere slight food changes they may appreciate probiotics for when they’re looking for balance.

These signals don’t guarantee your pup needs probiotics (many dogs with zero gut bacteria level still show these signs) however, it’s worth discussing with your veterinarian if they’re chronic.

How To Select Probiotics for Dogs

As more products hit pet supply store shelves by the day regarding probiotics, it seems like a game of chance. But not all are created equal which means that if you select one for your dog, it’s best to stick with safe bets.

• Choose vet-approved options
  Products made for dogs with veterinary backing are always safer than those prescribed for humans (or even suggested for crossover use).
• Check the strains
  Look for names like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These families have been used in studies/products designed specifically for canines.
• Select a form your dog will tolerate
  Powdered forms sprinkled on kibble or chews or soft gels hidden in dinner all work less than consistency.
• Skip blended mystery products
  Clear labels are important; avoid anything that sounds vague or leaves you guessing what’s inside.

A Happy Gut = A Happy Dog

Your dog’s belly does far more than digest dinner; it powers their immune system, manages stress and keeps everything else running smoothly. When what’s happening in their gut feels good, chances are everything else feels good too.

Probiotics aren’t magic in a bottle but they can work wonders for dogs needing an extra helping hand from within. Whether your pooch struggles with digestion, just finished rounds with antibiotics, or feels sensitive to stress in general, it may be worth it to explore probiotic options with your vet’s guidance, of course.

After all, a happy gut means a happy pup!