Probiotics for Dogs: Does Your Dog Need Them?

We’re just beginning to understand the potential benefits of probiotics for dogs.  

Unfortunately, veterinary research into the effectiveness of probiotics for pets isn’t all that common, and what studies do exist sometimes provide contradictory evidence. 

However, under certain circumstances, probiotics for dogs can: 

• Aid digestion 

• Modulate the immune system 

• Provide intestinal benefits by producing short-chain fatty acids, which fight harmful bacteria 

• Improve diarrhea, irritable bowels, and intestinal inflammation 

• Reduce the frequency of urinary tract infections 

• Reduce allergic reactions  

• Help dogs remain calm 

Here’s a breakdown on probiotics for dogs—what they are, the types of probiotics, their benefits, and what they can be used for. 

What Are Probiotics for Dogs?

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. Billions of these bacteria (and some yeast) live in the gastrointestinal system of many animals, including dogs. These healthy gut microbes balance the internal environment to prevent disease and promote health. 

Gastrointestinal microorganisms perform tasks like: 

• Helping break down food 

• Making nutrients and vitamins 

• Fighting off potential pathogens 

• Strengthening immunity 

• Interacting with the “gut-brain axis” that plays an important role in mood 

What’s the Difference Between Prebiotics and Probiotics for Dogs?

You may have also heard of prebiotics. So, what’s the difference between the two? Prebiotics are types of fiber that nourish and promote the growth of good bacteria already living in the colon. In other words, prebiotics feed probiotics. 

Prebiotics are usually found in high-fiber foods. 

Some pet foods contain prebiotics, such as Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Dry Dog Food, which is specially formulated with ActivBiome+, a special blend of prebiotics to support healthy digestion. 

Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs 

Probiotics are prescribed for maintaining a desirable intestinal microbial balance—essentially, to keep a dog’s gut health in balance. 

A generally healthy dog should be able to maintain the balance of digestive microbes naturally. But during times of stress, illness, or malnutrition, an imbalance can occur. 

Many dogs seem to respond well to probiotic supplements when their gut microbes have gotten out of whack. 

Studies have shown that certain species of probiotics may have specific benefits for dogs. For example, certain strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can help to: 

• Manage yeast and support the immune system 

• Prevent anxiety 

• Reduce stress 

• Provide relief from diarrhea and food allergies 

Some Bacillus species can also support the immune response, and Enterococcus faecium has been shown to shorten the course of diarrhea in dogs. 

Can Probiotics Help Dogs with Diarrhea? 

Yes, probiotics can be used to improve dog diarrhea caused by: 

• Stress from boarding, moving, or any disruption in routine 

• Sudden changes to your dog’s diet, like eating a new or unusual food 

• A bacterial imbalance from long-term antibiotic use 

Diarrhea caused by infections that result in a bacterial overgrowth within the gut may improve with probiotic use as well. 

Can Probiotics Help Dogs with Allergies? 

Certain probiotic strains have been shown to modulate the immune system and regulate inflammatory molecules, like IgE antibodies involved in allergic reactions.  

A recent study revealed that dogs with an allergic skin disease (canine atopic dermatitis) have less gut microorganism diversity compared to healthy dogs.  

This study suggests that intestinal imbalance is correlated with CAD and that probiotic supplementation can reduce the severity of allergy symptoms by balancing the healthy gut bacteria. 

Signs Your Dog Needs Probiotics 

Your dog may benefit from a probiotic if they deal with the following health issues frequently: 

• Loose stool or diarrhea 

• Constipation 

• Chronic skin inflammation 

• Frequent urinary tract infections 

• Signs of anxiety including excessive barking, whining, jumping, and pacing 

Types of Probiotics for Dogs

Probiotics for dogs come in several forms. Some dog foods even include probiotics in the list of ingredients, such as Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials and Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly.  

If you look at the guaranteed analysis section on a package of dog food with probiotics, you will see the type of bacteria added. 

However, it’s usually better to use a dog probiotic supplement that’s produced as a powder, capsule, or chew.  

With these types of products, it’s possible to provide your dog with higher numbers of beneficial live microorganisms.  

The probiotic will be labeled with recommendations on dosage and frequency of use. 

Can Dogs Take Human Probiotics?

Yes, dogs can take human probiotics; they are not harmful to pets. However, they may not provide the same benefits as a species-specific supplement because dogs have a different gut microbiome than people.  

Probiotics designed specifically for dogs take this into account and have appropriate dosing instructions printed on their labels. 

Side Effects of Probiotics for Dogs

Some dogs may experience side effects when starting probiotics, particularly at high doses, such as: 

• Digestive discomfort 

• Diarrhea 

• Bloating 

• Gas 

• Constipation 

A digestive symptom may temporarily get worse before it improves. Changes in appetite may be an early indicator of an adverse reaction.  

Talk to your veterinarian if your dog does not respond well to probiotics or you have any concerns about their digestive health.