The power of natural probiotics for dogs

Updated 23/09/2024

Could your furry friend’s gut do with a little extra TLC? Just like us, dogs need a healthy balance of good bacteria to keep their tummies happy, and probiotics are the superheroes that can help make this happen. We’re exploring the health benefits of natural probiotics for dogs, how to pick the best ones, and sharing some easy recipes you can use to boost your pup’s digestive health. 

What is a natural probiotic for dogs?

Our furry friends have billions of live microorganisms in their gut, made up of both good and bad bacteria. The good bacteria act as little helpers, balancing the microbiome and making sure everything runs smoothly. 

Dogs naturally produce a lot of this good bacteria on their own, but there are certain situations where they might need a bit of a boost, like:

• After taking antibiotics
• Changes in your dog’s diet
• Stressful times
• Infections
• Parasites
• Suffering from a bout of diarrhoea

Natural probiotic foods for dogs are packed with live bacteria, making them perfect for boosting your furry friend’s gut health. Some natural probiotics for dogs include unsweetened Greek yogurt, kefir, and cottage cheese – more on these later.

Probiotics for dogs: Benefits

We know probiotics are great for humans, but did you know they can also work wonders for dogs? While research is still catching up, studies suggest that probiotics offer various health benefits including improved digestion, better nutrient absorption, and a stronger immune system. Natural dog probiotics can help with conditions such as:

• Diarrhea and upset stomach
• Gas
• Cramping
• Bloating and inflammation of the GI tract 
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Skin disorders
• Allergies

Keeping your dog’s gut in tip-top shape means you’re also helping them to have:

• A healthy coat
• Reduced tear staining around the eyes 
• Fresher breath
• Increased energy
• Improved digestion and absorption of key nutrients
• Sools of normal consistency - not too loose or solid
• Stronger immune system
• Reduced recurrence of tummy upsets and diarrhoea 
• Lower risks of anal gland problems such as impaction

One of the most exciting findings is how probiotics can benefit mental health. Your doggy’s brain is constantly communicating with their gut, and the right gut bacteria can help regulate their emotions.

Speaking of keeping stress and anxiety at bay, another fantastic way is to get an in-home dog sitter when you’re away. With TrustedHousesitters, your furry friend will have a loving, verified sitter to keep them company, so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about leaving them behind. It’s a win-win for both you and your pooch pal!

The best probiotic for dogs

Probiotics for dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from dog food and treats to powders, pills, and naturally probiotic-rich foods. 

1. Greek yogurt: Low in lactose but high in live cultures and probiotics like Streptococcus and Lactobacillus.
2. Kefir: This fermented drink is a gut health superstar, filled with 60 different probiotic strains.
3. Raw green tripe: The stomach lining of cows or sheep might not sound appetizing to you, but it’s a probiotic powerhouse for dogs! Note that it’s not suitable for young pups or any dog with a medical issue, ask a veterinarian for advice if wanting to feed raw green tripe. 
4. Cottage cheese: Filled with Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum for a healthy gut.
5. Fresh blueberries: These little berries are rich in prebiotics and bioactives.
6. Goat’s milk: Low in lactose and great in fermented foods like kefir and yogurt.
7. Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that’s full of natural probiotics, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Feed in small amounts as large amounts can cause gastric upset.
8. Fermented veggies: Carrots, cabbage, and cauliflower contain probiotic strains like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus.
9. Sweet Potatoes: Rich in oligosaccharides, a type of prebiotic that feeds healthy gut bacteria. A firm favorite with most dogs due to the tasty sweet flavor.
10. Bananas: Packed with potassium and prebiotic fiber.

Homemade probiotics for dogs

Whipping up some homemade probiotic treats for your dog is a breeze with these tasty ingredients. You can simply add a small amount to their regular dog food, or try out these probiotic-rich recipes:

Greek yogurt pupsicles

Ingredients:

• 1 cup goat’s milk
• 1 cup plain yogurt (free from artificial sweeteners)
• 1 grated apple
• ½ cup blueberries 

Method:

1. Blend all the ingredients until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into molds.
3. Freeze for 2-3 hours, or until solid.
4. Serve them up as a refreshing treat on a hot day – you can enjoy them too!

Savory stink bombs (recipe from Adored Beast)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup goat’s milk
• 1 cup raw green tripe (unbleached)

Method:

• Mix the ingredients together in a bowl.
• Feed your furry friend a spoonful or pop it into freezer molds for a cold treat.
  

As with anything, it’s important to speak to your vet before introducing your furry friend to probiotics of any kind. Not every food containing probiotics is suitable for every dog, and your vet is the best person to advise you on the correct probiotic supplementation for your pup.

Meet our veterinary expert, Corinne

This article has been checked by veterinarian Corinne Wigfall BVMBVS(Hons) BVMedSci(Hons). Corinne is originally from Wales and moved to New Zealand after graduating university. She started her career with a university based equine internship and moved onto mixed and small animal practice. Currently she splits her time between online tele triage and working in an after hours vet clinic.