Probiotics for dogs have a lot of perks and people are gradually beginning to recognize them. They can play a huge role in your dog’s health, if you use the right ones for all the right purposes.

Let’s take an insight to probiotics for dogs and how they are helpful for these loyal pets. What are they, how do they work and when are they needed? It’s all in here.

Keep on reading to learn more about this topic.

What are Probiotics for Dogs?

Probiotics are microorganisms that reside in the digestive tract and are beneficial for the body. They are responsible for balancing the good bacteria and the internal environment to prevent different illnesses. It also plays a huge role in promoting good health.

These good probiotics perform different duties like helping to break down food, strengthening the immune system, developing minerals and nutrients and fighting potential pathogens.

Do Dogs Require Probiotics?

There are many best probiotic for dogs that help in maintenance of their intestinal microbial balance. Dogs naturally maintain this balance on their own. This is the natural process that takes place for their whole life, and of course they can maintain it on their own naturally.

But if they are ill, stressed or are fighting some type of malnutrition, then an imbalance is suspected. This is where a probiotic supplement is prescribed to the dog, to ensure that their intestinal health remains intact and doesn’t cause further issues.

Advantages of Probiotics for Dogs:

All probiotics are not good for dogs. There are specific ones that dogs can benefit from. For example, lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are two probiotics that can help in the following:

• Management of yeast
• Supporting the immune system
• Reduction of stress
• Positive impact on mood and emotions
• It helps in improving diarrhea
• Helps in food allergies

Can probiotics help dogs in Diarrhea?

Yes. Probiotics can help dogs with diarrhea. It is caused due to a sudden change in the pet’s diet, or due to stress colitis or a bacterial imbalance. Whatever might be the cause, probiotics do play a significant role in improving your gut health, if he/she is fighting diarrhea. You can consult the vet and get the best probiotic for your pet.

Signs that your dog needs Probiotics:

Are there any signs that might indicate that your dog needs probiotics? Well, yes there are! But there are a few things to know. Probiotics shift your pet’s gut health. Thus, this does lead to some minor, maybe major side effects like nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

The biggest sign that your dog must shift on probiotics is when he/she is already on antibiotics. For example, if your dog has constipation or diarrhea, then your vet might suggest some antibiotics along with probiotics. Even if your pet is facing gas or bloating issues, it is best to consider probiotics for him.

As probiotics help in balancing the good and bad bacteria of the dog’s gut health, it is important to opt for them whenever your pet is having stomach issues. However, it is always recommended to ask your vet about the best probiotics for your dog, given the situation of your pet.

How Much Time Do Probiotics Take to Work?

Usually, it takes just a few days for the probiotics to work. And there must be a little relief for your pet, on the first day of probiotics. You might notice them feeling a bit better from the influx. Often, on the second day, the dog gets back to normal routine and health. However, this might vary, depending on the condition of your pet.

But it does not take more than 3 days for your pet to return to normal, whilst being on probiotics. On the contrary, if your dog shows no improvement from the probiotics, within 2 days and it seems as if he/she is not feeling well at all; then you must visit the vet as soon as possible.

Are there any side effects?

There aren’t many side effects of probiotics in dogs. But some might experience constipation, bloating, digestive discomfort and diarrhea. Some dogs might experience nausea as well. Also, a poorly functioning digestive system might get worse before it actually gets better with the help of probiotics. It is important that you discuss it with your vet in detail, before your pet starts taking them.

Selecting and Storing the Right Probiotics for your Dog

The best probiotics are the ones that are treat based. It is best not to opt for dog foods that are said to be infused with probiotics. Why so? This is because they contain very little number of probiotics, which is equivalent to none. Thus, they are not as effective as whole probiotics are.

As probiotics are live bacteria, it is important to look for the good ones. Try to select probiotics that have the following types of bacteria present in them:

• Lactobacillus Casei
• Lactobacillus acidophilus
• Enterococcus faecium
• Bifidobacterium breve
• Bifidobacterium lactis

Once you select the right probiotic, it is very important to store it properly as well. As it is live bacteria, you want to keep it away from a lot of moisture and air. Also, avoid putting it in extreme temperatures. It shouldn’t be too cold or too hot to store the probiotics.

To store them accurately, you have to be very thoughtful about the temperature. The best way to keep them safe is to store them in your kitchen cabinet. It is optimal room temperature and keeps the probiotics safe and good for a long time. If there are any storage instructions mentioned on the probiotics bottle; make sure to follow them.

CONCLUSION

Probiotics for dogs can be extremely beneficial. It is usually important for your pet when he/she is ill or stressed. They are usually prescribed by your vet. They know best when your dog needs them.

In the end, do probiotics for dogs actually work? Yes, they do! They can be extremely helpful for dogs in fighting different illnesses.