9 Best Probiotics for Dogs
Probiotics for dogs are living, beneficial microorganisms that support overall health. Probiotics keep the dog’s gut microbiome in balance and help prevent and treat common canine health conditions.
Probiotics support digestion, promote oral health, boost immunity, control allergies, and improve mood. Dog probiotics are safe when used responsibly. Minor and transient stomach upset is the sole side effect of probiotics and is associated with low-quality products and excessive use.
Certain foods naturally contain probiotics, allowing pet owners to prepare homemade dog treats rich in healthy microorganisms. Commercially available probiotics for dogs are simple to dose and use.
Honest Paws offers the best probiotic on the market. The top-notch formula meets all criteria for quality, safety, and efficacy.
1. Honest Paws Probiotics For Dogs With Prebiotics
Honest Paws Probiotics for Dogs with Prebiotics is a chicken-flavored, GMO-free formula packed with prebiotics comprising five strains of bacteria.
The Honest Paws top probiotics are powdered and packed in pre-measured sticks. Each sachet contains 5 billion CFUs, and the pack features 30 sticks.
The daily dose of Honest Paws’ vet-recommended probiotics for dogs is one stick per day. One pack of probiotics equals a month’s supply and costs $29.97.
Honest Paws offers the best dog probiotics for overall health and wellness.
“Since we started using this for our dog's daily meal she has been in much better health. More lively demeanor and more energy!”
2. Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Probiotic Supplement
Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Probiotic is a liver-flavored single-strain probiotic that supports gut health and reduces flatulence.
Fortiflora is a powdered probiotic conveniently served in single-dose sachets, with 30 sticks per pack. One pack or a monthly supply costs $30.99.
Purina’s Fortiflora supplements were the number one vet-recommended probiotics for dogs in 2019. The product remains the best dog probiotics for digestive health support.
“This Flortiflora works great when your pup has occasional tummy issues or, like my dog, who has IBD (Irritated Bowel). It does make all the difference!”
3. Fera Pet Organics Probiotics with Prebiotics
Fera Pet Organics Probiotics with Prebiotics is a NASC-approved and gluten-free supplement with 12 strains of beneficial bacteria and a healthy blend of prebiotics.
Ferra Pet Organics’ vet-recommended probiotics for dogs are flavorless powders that are easy to digest. The product contains 72 grams and lasts up to 4 months.
Dogs require between half a scoop and two scoops of the powder daily. The Fera Pet Organics supplement costs $28.95.
Fera Pet Organics offers one of the best dog probiotics with multiple strains for various health benefits.
“Great for my bulldogs’s digestion. Since they started taking it with their dinner, their digestion system has been working marvelously!!”
4. Amazing Nutritionals Probiotic Joint Chewable Tablets
Amazing Nutritionals Probiotic Joint Chewable Tablets are a unique blend containing 7 billion CFUs of bacteria and joint-friendly ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM.
The probiotic supplement is in the form of small chews. Each container contains 120 pieces of delicious bacon and liver-flavored tablets.
Canines need up to four tablets of the Amazing Nutritionals’ vet-recommended probiotics for dogs per day. One pack costs $29.97.
Amazing Nutritionals offers the best dog probiotics for canines needing extra digestion and joint support.
“All of my dogs love these, and the reduction in flatulence is very welcome! The added benefit of joint support makes this an absolute monthly addition to my dog care!”
5. Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites
Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites is an advanced formula with six strains of beneficial bacteria perfect for digestive and immune system support. The supplement is free from artificial ingredients and preservatives.
Zesty Paws’ vet-recommended probiotics for dogs are easy to use and available in delicious chews with chicken or peanut butter flavors.
The recommended dose is between one and three bites a day. One supplement pack (315 g) contains 90 bites and costs $29.97.
Zesty Paws offers the best dog probiotics for gut health support and immunity boosting.
“My doggie loves this (both the pumpkin and chicken flavors), and they do WONDERS for her tummy.”
6. The Honest Kitchen Pro Bloom Instant Goat's Milk Probiotics
The Honest Kitchen Pro Bloom Instant Goat’s Milk Probiotic is a human-grade formula with probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes. The product is enriched with highly digestible goat’s milk.
The formula is in powder form, rehydrated with warm water, and served as a liquid. The pack contains 30 sachets, each equaling a daily dose of probiotics.
The vet-recommended probiotics for dogs by Honest Kitchen cost $16.99. The product is one of the best dog probiotics for puppies and is suitable for dogs of all ages.
“My 9-month-old GSD absolutely loves this! She has a very, very sensitive stomach, and this definitely helps her.”
7. Vetnique Labs Glandex Anal Gland Support
Vetnique Labs Glandex Anal Gland Support is a supplement featuring 3 billion CFUs of good bacteria, six types of dietary fibers, and digestive enzymes.
The vet-recommended probiotics for dogs are duck and bacon-flavored chewable treats. A single supplement container features 30, 60, or 120 pieces of soft chews.
The recommended dose for dogs is between half a treat to four treats per day. Vetnique Labs Glandex Anal Gland Support costs $23.99, $39.99, or $71.99 based on pack size.
Vetnique Labs offers the best dog probiotics for canines prone to anal gland problems due to low-quality stool.
“The only chew to change the stool of our 4-year-old GSD so that frequent expressions were not necessary!”
8. Finn Digestive Probiotics
Finn Digestive Probiotic is a carefully crafted blend of six strains of probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes with a delicious, dog-friendly liver flavor.
The probiotics are available as chewable treats, packaged in eco-friendly containers with 90 pieces per container. Dogs need between one and four chews daily, depending on body weight. The vet-recommended probiotics for dogs are reasonably priced and cost $32.00.
The Finn Digestive Probiotic supplement is one of the best dog probiotics for improved, easy-to-scoop poop.
“My 4-lb. toy poodle has a delicate digestive system. This is a fabulous product. She eagerly eats the treat.”
9. Vital Planet Flora Dog Probiotic
Vital Planet Flora Dog Probiotic is a high-quality, multi-strain probiotic formula enriched with dietary fibers for better digestion support.
Vital Planet's vet-recommended probiotics for dogs are powdered and easy to use. One scoop boasts 20 billion bacteria and equals one daily dose.
The Vital Planet Flora Dog Probiotic costs $29.99 and contains 111 grams of powder or a monthly supply of 30 scoops.
Vital Planet offers one of the market’s best dog probiotics with many CFUs for extra support.
“We make homemade dog food and put a scoop of this in every morning meal. I highly recommend it.”
What is a Good Probiotic for Dogs?
A good probiotic for dogs is a living microorganism that provides a health benefit when served appropriately.
The dog’s gastrointestinal system harbors billions of microorganisms, including beneficial and harmful bacteria and certain yeasts. The various microorganisms are balanced in optimal conditions, forming the gut microbiome.
Probiotics for dogs are available in supplement form and are naturally found in certain foods. Using dog probiotics helps keep the gut microbiome balanced.
How does Probiotics Work for Dogs?
Probiotics for dogs work by supporting a healthy microbiome, adjusting the gut’s acidity, and releasing beneficial fatty acids.
Probiotics introduce healthy bacteria and yeasts into the GI tract. The beneficial microbes inhibit the growth of bad ones by competing with them for nutrients.
A high-quality probiotic supplement for dogs works naturally and is safe for dogs of all ages and sizes.
Why a Dog Needs Probiotics?
A dog needs probiotics to restore microbial gut balance. Regularly using probiotics for dogs results in healthy digestion, improved nutrient resorption, a strong immune system, fresh breath, fewer allergies, ear infections, and GI tract conditions.
When should you Give Probiotics for your Dogs?
You should give probiotics for your dogs in times of gut microbiome imbalances. Give probiotics when dogs have diarrhea and before events that follow diarrhea, like pet food changes and stressful car rides.
Probiotics are suggested for dogs with allergy-triggered skin issues, bad breath, and recurring ear infections. Administer probiotics during and after long-term antibiotic treatments.
Can You Give Probiotics to Puppies?
Yes, you can give probiotics to puppies. Veterinarians recommend using puppy probiotics for the treatment of diarrhea. Diarrhea is common in puppies due to their sensitive stomachs that result from puppy anxiety.
Always consult the vet before giving probiotics to puppies, and ensure the supplement is made exclusively for dogs.
How can Probiotics Improve Dogs' Digestive Health?
Probiotics improve the dog’s digestive health by balancing gut bacteria. Probiotics help treat and prevent digestive problems in dogs while aiding digestion and promoting nutrient production and absorption.
Probiotics for dogs are beneficial in treating many gastrointestinal (GI) tract diseases, including enteritis and inflammatory bowel disease, and help ease digestive symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, bloat, gassiness, and abdominal pain.
How do Probiotics for Dogs Help Boost the Immune System?
Probiotics for dogs help boost the immune system by supporting a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
The dog’s digestive tract comprises roughly 70% of the dog’s immune system. Managing problems in the gut boosts dog immunity by allowing the immune system to work properly.
Probiotics for dogs benefit immunity, according to the paper “Oral Administration of Compound Probiotics Improved Canine Feed Intake, Weight Gain, Immunity and Intestinal Microbiota,” published in Frontiers in Immunology in 2019.
Can Probiotics for Dogs Prevent Dog Autoimmune Diseases?
No, probiotics for dogs do not prevent autoimmune diseases. “Probiotics have shown therapeutic potential toward immune-mediated diseases” in humans, according to a study, “Probiotics and Prebiotics in the Suppression of Autoimmune Diseases,” published in A Scientific Perspective in 2022. The effect of pet probiotics based on current research does not indicate the prevention or treatment of autoimmune disease in dogs.
What are the Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs?
The benefits of probiotics for dogs are listed below.
- Improved Digestive Health: Probiotics support digestive health and help treat various GI tract conditions. Probiotics enhance nutrient absorption, promote stool quality, and reduce the risk of hookworm infections.
- Oral Health and Breath Support: Certain dog probiotic strains support oral health and have an antimicrobial effect, reducing the risk of periodontal (gum) disease. Probiotics prevent halitosis or bad breath in dogs.
- Stronger Immune System: Probiotics for dogs boost the immune system. They increase the immune potency of the colostrum (first milk) in pregnant dogs, resulting in puppies with stronger viral resistance.
- Allergy and Allergy Symptom Control: Probiotics help reduce allergies by stimulating the dog’s immune system and relieving certain allergy symptoms, including ear infections and itchiness.
- Better Mood and Relaxation: Certain probiotic strains (behavioral probiotics) target the dog’s mood and relieve anxiety. Probiotics affect mood through the gut-brain axis.
What are the Risks of Probiotics for Dogs?
The risks of probiotics for dogs are listed below.
- Diarrhea: Diarrhea that manifests with frequent or loose stool is the most common side effect of probiotics for dogs and a telltale sign of stomach upset.
- Constipation: Dog probiotics occasionally cause constipation. A constipated dog has trouble defecating.
- Excess Gas: The sudden changes in the gut microbiome caused by the probiotic result in increased gas production by the bacteria.
- Bloating: The excess gas produced by the gut bacteria accumulates in the dog’s digestive tract, causing bloating and abdominal pain.
How Often Should You Give Probiotics to Dogs?
You should give probiotics to dogs daily. The duration and frequency of administration depend on the dog’s health and the reason for using probiotics.
For example, a dog prone to travel diarrhea benefits from temporary probiotic supplementation before the trip. A dog on long-term antibiotic therapy requires probiotic support while taking the antibiotics. A dog with allergies needs continuous probiotic support for symptom relief.
Consult the veterinarian to ensure responsible use of probiotics for dogs.
How to Make Homemade Probiotics for Your Dogs?
To make homemade probiotics for your dogs, follow the instructions listed below.
- Gather the Ingredients: Measure 1⅓ cups of plain yogurt (home-prepared if possible), ⅓ of freshly chopped parsley, and ⅓ cup of finely shredded carrots.
- Prepare the Equipment: Have a mixing bowl and silicon molds or an ice cube tray on hand before mixing the recipe.
- Mix the Ingredients Together: Combine the chopped veggies with the measured yogurt amount in a bowl and mix them well.
- Spoon the Paste into the Mold/Tray: Spoon the veggie-yogurt mixture into the silicone molds or ice cube tray based on preference and availability.
- Freeze the Recipe: Place the treats in the freezer for several hours to harden and serve them as tasty, nutrient-rich homemade probiotics for dogs.
Can Probiotics Treat Allergies in Dogs?
Yes, probiotics treat allergies in dogs. Probiotics for dogs decrease immune hyperreactivity and reduce allergen-triggered inflammation.
Probiotics restore gut health, boost immunity, and help treat dog allergy issues, especially seasonal environmental hypersensitivity and canine atopic dermatitis.
“Probiotics modulate the immune response and may have protective effects against atopic dermatitis,” according to a study published in Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology in 2012. The study titled “Early Exposure to Probiotics in a Canine Model of Atopic Dermatitis Has Long-Term Clinical and Immunological Effects.”
Are Probiotics for Humans Safe for Dogs?
No, human probiotics are not safe for dogs. Human probiotics feature a higher number of colony-forming units (CFUs) than dog probiotics.
Probiotics designed for humans contain added ingredients that are harmful to dogs. For example, certain human probiotics feature xylitol. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to pets.
Certain human probiotics are safe for dogs, but the range of probiotics for dogs available on the market means it is best to avoid human formulas.
What Factors Should Dog Owners Consider When Choosing Probiotic Supplements?
The factors dog owners should consider when choosing probiotic supplements are listed below.
- Number of Strains: Probiotics for dogs feature one or more unique strains of bacteria. Single-strain products target specific health problems, and multi-strain probiotics support overall wellness.
- Colony-Forming Units (CFUs): The colony-forming units represent the number of good bacteria in the probiotic. The more CFUs in the supplement, the higher its potency.
- Ingredient List: A quality dog probiotic must be free from allergens and artificial ingredients and contain healthy additions, such as prebiotics, fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
- Brand: Research the brand before choosing the ideal dog probiotics. Read reviews from previous customers and consider the brand’s transparency regarding ingredients and manufacturing practices.
- Form and Flavor: Probiotics for dogs come in different forms (powder, capsules, treats) and dog-friendly flavors (beef, chicken). Choose the combination that is simplest to serve.
How do Veterinarians Determine the suitable Probiotics for your Dog?
Veterinarians determine the suitable probiotics for your dog based on individual needs. Certain health issues benefit from specific probiotics for dogs.
For example, veterinarians administer probiotics with Enterococcus faecium to decrease the duration of acute diarrhea episodes, while they recommend probiotics rich in Bifidobacterium longum for anxiety relief.