The Best Probiotics For Dogs
When it comes to healthy immune systems and digestion, dogs are really no different than humans — it all comes down to the gut. In the former as in the latter, maintaining the right balance of microorganisms in the stomach is key to natural digestion and even immune system functioning. As humans, we often incorporate probiotics into our diets in order to maintain this balance — and so it is with dogs. Containing live microorganisms found naturally in K9 bodies, dog probiotics can help inhibit the growth and activity of harmful bacteria, as well as prevent other intestine-related issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease and diarrhea. Our ranking includes veterinarian-recommended varieties from some of the tops brands on the market.
What to Look For
When choosing a probiotic for your dog, consider the species of probiotic, the dosage, and the delivery method. Probiotics are available as capsules, powders, or chews. Species of probiotics vary, so it is important to choose one that is specifically tailored for canines. Probiotics are also available in different dosage levels, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for the size of your dog. For example, our favorite option, from Zesty Paws, is great for dogs of all ages and sizes. Alternatively, we also love the premium formula from Purina, which is ideal for purebreds. Read on to learn more about these options and find a probiotic that’s right for your pooch.
Zesty Paws Probiotic
Healthy and happy
Whether you have a large dog, an old dog, a small dog, or even a puppy, the Zesty Paws Probiotic is sure to work wonders on digestive systems of all ages. The six-strain blend is designed to treat a range of intestinal issues, from gas and bloating to constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, and stomach discomfort. But it also incorporates ingredients that help promote other aspects of your dog’s health, including natural digestive enzymes that may boost immune system response and support nutrient absorption to help them get the most out of every meal.
Pros:
- Also includes fiber for healthier stools
- Comes in two different flavors
Cons:
- Price-to-quantity ratio could be better
Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora
Like a pro
Billed as the #1 veterinarian-recommended formula on the market, the Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora is an advanced probiotic that should please even the most discriminating dog owners. Like other formulas, it includes a mix of active microorganisms and enzymes that can suppress gas and diarrhea and promote immune health. But the real key to its success is the proprietary microencapsulation process, which helps keep the microorganisms alive until they reach the intestinal tract, ensuring your dog gets the maximum benefits from each serving.
Pros:
- Also includes fibers, fats, and proteins
- Powder is easy to pour into food
Cons:
- A little pricey compared to other options
Pet Ultimates Probiotics for Dogs
Easy on the tummy
While cheaper brands may opt for unhealthy fillers, such as sugar, grain maltodextrins, or even animal digest, as the base of their formula, the Pet Ultimates Probiotics uses only the finest ingredients. In this case, that’s pure prebiotic inulin, a daily supplement that helps enhance the delivery of probiotics to your dog’s system. The formula includes 22 carefully selected microorganism species that protect the colon from mucosal inflammation and even infections by yeast, plus an enzyme that combats gassiness. What’s more, it all comes in an easy-to-administer powder form that you can sprinkle right into your pup’s food.
Pros:
- Also promotes healthy coat and skin
- Ultra-concentrated formula goes a long way
Cons:
- Not all dogs prefer the taste
Nutri-Vet Pre and Probiotic Soft Chew
Most munchable
Powdered formulas can be great, but sometimes it’s easier to just toss your dog a soft chew to get them their daily dose of probiotics. That’s where the Nutri-Vet Pre and Probiotic comes in. Each piece packs a combination of vet-approved microorganisms and enzymes in a soft, chew-able tablet that is also flavored with liver and cheese, making it extremely healthy but also irresistible to your K9. This is also a particularly ideal solution if you’re trying to avoid the digestive issues that can arise while a dog is transitioning from one kind of food to another.
Pros:
- Convenient, stay-fresh container
- Suitable for dogs of all ages
Cons:
- Not for regular extended use
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog need probiotics?
Dogs are like humans — much of their immune and digestive health depends on what’s going on in their gut. In fact, the stomach contains approximately 70% of all immune cells in the K9 body — so if those cells aren’t getting the right nutrients, your dog’s overall health can suffer. Probiotics, which include live microorganisms and enzymes, ensure your dog’s gut remains healthy and can thereby treat a whole host of issues, from gas and diarrhea to yeast infections and even bad breath.
How do I know a probiotic formula is effective?
Probiotic formulas can vary in terms of what ingredients go into them. Some include added vitamins and enzymes that can make them a great daily supplement for your dog’s healthy. But the main thing to look for in a formula is the amount of microorganism in each serving — usually measured in colony-forming units, or CFU. The higher this number is, the more effective the formula is likely to be. In general, you’ll know a formula is effective if it treats the problems the maker claims it does — and for that you may have to experiment with a few different brands before finding the right one.
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