7 Best Probiotic For Dogs in 2024: A Vet’s Most Complete and Honest Review

 

Hello, dear pet lovers! 

 

Today, we will discuss the “friendly” bacteria - probiotics. It’s commonly believed that bacteria in the human body outnumber our body’s cells by a ratio of 10:1. However, recent research shows that this number is nearly equalized. But we can say one thing - there are a lot of bacteria in our bodies! 

 

Most of these bacteria are found in the gut, with the majority being harmless, while only a small number can cause disease. Probiotics offer several benefits, including improved digestion, enhanced immune function, and a reduced risk of diseases.

 

We’ve created this veterinary guide to help you choose the best probiotic for your dog with ease!

Jump To:

• What Is a Probiotic for Dogs?
• When to Give Probiotics to Your Dog?
• How to Choose the Best Probiotics for a Dog?
• Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs
• Precautions and Considerations
• Top 7 Best Probiotics For Dogs

What Is a Probiotic for Dogs?

 

Dog's probiotics are supplements that contain beneficial bacteria, supporting a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut. These bacteria help improve overall digestive and immune system function.

 

Probiotics differ from prebiotics, which are non-digestible fibers that feed these good bacteria, and postbiotics, which are the health-promoting compounds produced when probiotics break down prebiotics. Another definition of postbiotics is that they are dead or inactivated probiotics that still confer health benefits by interacting in a similar way as live probiotics. Postbiotics can also be considered as metabolic byproducts of probiotics that contribute to a healthy gut environment. Together, prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics can work synergistically to improve overall canine health and well-being.

 

Probiotics also reside in the digestive tract, but when dogs are sick or stressed, the balance between good and bad bacteria can be disrupted. This imbalance may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, gas, and even bad breath. Some bacteria are also found in higher quantities in obese and overweight dogs, while others may help with renal issues. Bacteria impact health in various ways beyond just digestive health. The gut microbiota is highly included in the overall well-being of the animal.

 

Dog's probiotics can be administered through various supplements, including chews, liquids, powders, and capsules, as well as probiotic-rich foods and natural sources like yogurt and kefir. One very important thing to remember is that heat and humidity can significantly impact the viability of probiotics. The higher the heat and moisture, the greater the risk that the bacteria may not survive for long, and their population can decrease significantly over time.

 

This is why at Jope, we prefer powder forms, which are dry and help maintain the stability of the probiotics.

 

When to Give Probiotics to Your Dog?

 

 

This supplement can be used even when a dog is completely healthy, but it is especially beneficial in certain situations. When pets are sick or stressed, their microbial balance may be disrupted, making probiotics for dogs particularly helpful. They can also be advantageous during diet changes, as dogs age, when using medications, and in cases of parasitic infections.

 

Probiotics can be beneficial in a variety of situations for dogs, whether they are completely healthy or dealing with specific issues. Here’s a breakdown of their applications:

 

• Maintenance Probiotics: Probiotics can be used to maintain good digestive function and overall well-being. They help keep stools regular, support healthy digestion, and can be especially useful for puppies, who may experience gut issues due to their tendency to eat various things. Probiotics can also aid in reducing gas and bloating and bolster the immune system. For instance, a study found that pregnant Great Dane dogs receiving prebiotics and probiotics had higher levels of immune-supporting antibodies in their colostrum, benefiting the puppies' health.

 

• Diarrhea and Gut Health Disorders: Probiotics for dogs are commonly used to address diarrhea and other gut issues. They are among the most studied supplements for these conditions. This probiotic can also be used for treating inflammatory bowel disease. For example, research has shown that probiotics can be effective in managing antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) caused by Clostridium difficile.

 

• Weight Management: Some pet probiotics, and more precisely Enterococcus faecium IDCC 2102 and Bifidobacterium lactis IDCC 4301 have been shown to help with weight management by limiting fat and weight gain, particularly in dogs on high-energy diets. 

 

• Renal Health: There is evidence from human studies suggesting that certain probiotics may support renal health. And studies in dogs are being made to support kidney health.

 

• Dental Health: Certain probiotic strains have demonstrated the ability to reduce dental plaque and improve overall dental health.

 

Probiotics for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)

 

 

Clostridium difficile is a gram-positive, anaerobic bacillus that causes various gastrointestinal infections in animals. It is imbalanced in the gastrointestinal tract in cases of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). This occurs when the normal balance of gut microbiota is disrupted due to antibiotic use. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting, and stomach upset.

 

While various antibiotics may be needed to treat this condition, overall health can be improved with probiotic consumption, which helps re-establish healthy gut flora.

 

Probiotics During Pregnancy 

 

One study evaluated whether giving pregnant Great Dane dogs a supplement of prebiotics (MOS and FOS) and probiotics (Enterococcus faecium and Lactobacillus acidophilus) could improve the quality of their colostrum, the first milk produced after giving birth. This is important because colostrum contains antibodies like IgG, IgM, and IgA that help protect puppies from infections.

 

The 20 Great Dane dogs were divided into four groups. One group received a standard diet, while the other three received the supplements for the last one, two, or four weeks of pregnancy. Blood samples were taken at different times to measure antibody levels, and colostrum was collected at birth to measure its antibody content.

 

Results showed that the group receiving supplements for four weeks had the highest levels of IgG, IgM, and IgA in their colostrum, indicating better immune support for the puppies. The study suggests that a four-week supplementation period is most effective for boosting the immune properties of colostrum. 

 

Disclaimer: While probiotics offer many benefits, we at Jope always recommend consulting with a veterinarian for personalized advice before starting any new supplement.

 

How to Choose the Best Probiotics for a Dog?

 

Choosing the best probiotic for your pet can be challenging, so we’ve put together some recommendations to help you make an informed decision. Here’s what to consider:

 

• Evaluate health target: If you’re unsure about your dog’s health issues, consult with a veterinarian. It’s crucial to choose a probiotic specifically formulated to address those conditions or to support a specific target. Remember that this supplement can be used for completely healthy pets, so sometimes it’s not necessary to evaluate health problems.

 

• Studies: The effectiveness of probiotics for dogs is strongly supported by research. Strains with multiple supporting studies are more likely to work effectively. Prioritize products with well-documented evidence for the strains included to ensure efficacy.

 

• Choose strains: Look for probiotics that contain beneficial strains with proven efficacy for specific health concerns. For general digestive health, Enterococcus faecium NCIMB 30183 or NCIMB 10415, Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii, and Bifidobacterium species are commonly recommended. Additionally, Lactobacillus and Bacillus subtilis DSM 15544 can offer added benefits, with Bacillus often providing superior stability. Consulting with your veterinarian can help identify the most suitable strains for your dog's condition.

 

• Choose a brand with vets on the team: While well-known brands supported or founded by vets can be pricey, there are often quality alternatives available. Carefully review the product’s label to ensure it meets high standards and is suitable for your dog.

 

• Find the best form for your dog: Probiotics come in various forms, including capsules, chews, liquids, and powders. For better stability and a more accurate dose of probiotics, consider choosing a powder form. Powders typically have lower moisture content, which helps maintain the viability of the probiotics and ensures that you give your dog the correct dosage.

 

• Choose a high potency probiotic: Colony-Forming Units (CFU) is a measure used to indicate the number of viable microorganisms in a probiotic product. Lower CFU is suitable when there is a general health problem, while higher CFUs are recommended for serious illnesses.  It’s important to note that each probiotic strain may have its own optimal dosage. Therefore, choosing a product with veterinarians on the team and studies backing the specific strains is crucial for ensuring the correct dosage and effectiveness for your dog’s needs.

 

• Read reviews: If you’re still undecided, reading customer reviews can provide insights into others’ experiences. While individual results may vary, reviews can offer valuable information to guide your choice.

 

Note: Consult with a veterinarian to understand more about bacterial strains, colony-forming units (CFU count), product quality, and your dog’s specific health needs before making a decision.

Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs

 

 

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that positively impact a dog's health. Here are some key benefits of probiotics for dogs:

Improved Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: Better Overall Gut Health

Probiotics help balance the microbial population in the gut, contributing to proper digestion. By ensuring that harmful bacteria do not outnumber the beneficial ones, probiotics support the production of digestive enzymes and aid in breaking down complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into smaller molecules.

 

Human studies indicate that Saccharomyces boulardii is an effective probiotic for treating both acute and chronic enteropathies. Saccharomyces boulardii is a yeast, similar to those found in beer, and not a bacterium like many other probiotics. However, it is still considered a probiotic due to its beneficial effects.

 

Other probiotics have also shown effectiveness, including:

• Enterococcus faecium, particularly the strain Enterococcus faecium DSM 10663 NCIMB 10415

• Bacillus subtilis, especially the strain Bacillus subtilis C-3102 Calsporin

• L. acidophilus, with the strain L. acidophilus D2/CSL

 

These strains have been proven to provide significant benefits and can be considered depending on your dog’s specific health needs.

 

One study evaluated its effects in both healthy dogs and those with chronic enteropathies (CE), including the recording of any adverse effects.

 

The results demonstrated that Saccharomyces cerevisaee boulardii could offer better control of clinical signs in dogs with CE compared to standard therapy alone.

 

While there is less scientific evidence for the use of probiotics in dogs compared to human studies, research suggests that supplementation with Bifidobacterium animalis AHC7 can reduce the duration of diarrhea from seven to four days.
Additionally, probiotics may reduce the need for antibiotic treatment by about 10 percent, according to the same study. 

 

Again, remember that not all probiotic strains have the same benefits. This is why it’s important to study them. 

 

Reduction in Allergies and Skin Conditions

 

Believe it or not, probiotics can also help with allergies. They are believed to assist in the production of regulatory T-cells, which suppress excessive immune reactions and prevent allergies. Additionally, probiotics can help prevent allergens and toxins from entering the bloodstream.

 

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a common, chronic inflammatory skin condition in dogs, characterized by abnormal levels of IgE antibodies in response to allergens. One study found that administering the probiotic strain Lactobacillus sakei probio-65 for two months significantly reduced the disease severity index in dogs diagnosed with CAD.

 

Another trial included 11 dogs with atopic dermatitis and assessed the impact of probiotics. The dogs were randomly divided into two groups: one group of 7 dogs received Bifidobacterium longum probiotics, while the control group of 4 dogs received a placebo powder daily for 12 weeks. The severity of skin lesions in both groups was evaluated using the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI)-4. While the results are promising, it’s important to note that the sample size in this study was relatively small. 

 

The results showed that in the probiotics group, the CADESI-4 score significantly decreased at 4, 8, and 12 weeks compared to the baseline score and effectively improved skin lesions. This study suggests that probiotics may be a beneficial option for dogs with atopic dermatitis and severe skin symptoms.

 

Weight Support

 

Human studies have shown that individuals with obesity have different gut bacteria compared to lean individuals. This may also apply to animals, as gut bacteria play a role in determining body weight.

 

Recent research on probiotics for obese canines revealed that Enterococcus faecium IDCC 2102 and Bifidobacterium lactis IDCC 4301 effectively reduced body weight, lipid accumulation, and systemic inflammation in high-fat diet-induced obesity. These probiotics improved microbiota balance and metabolic processes, enhancing energy utilization and restoring stable eating behavior and glucose tolerance in the study’s canine model.

 

Renal Support 

 

Human studies have shown that probiotic supplementation can reduce the severity of renal ischemia-reperfusion injuries and secondary liver injuries. This supplement may also be beneficial for addressing renal issues in dogs.

 

Renadyl was evaluated in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients to assess its safety and efficacy. The primary aim was to determine if Renadyl improved quality of life or reduced uremic toxin levels, while the secondary aim focused on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. This human study found out that it was deemed safe for use, and trends indicated potential benefits, such as reductions in inflammatory markers. 

 

Enhanced Immune System

 

Probiotics support the gut microbiome and positively affect the immune system. A healthy gut reduces the chances of infections and chronic inflammation, which can weaken the immune system.

 

In a study involving 90 dogs, categorized into three age groups:

• elderly (30 dogs), 

• young (24 dogs), 

• and training (36 dogs),

 

each group was further divided into two subgroups: 

• one received a daily probiotic feed additive, 

• and the other did not. 

 

The probiotic feed additive included three bacterial strains: Lactobacillus casei Zhang, Lactobacillus plantarum P-8, and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis V9.

 

The study found the following results regarding probiotics:

• Increased Feed Intake and Weight Gain: Probiotics led to higher average daily feed intake and weight gain across all age groups.

 

• Changes in Gut Microbial Structure in Elderly Dogs:

  • Increased Beneficial Bacteria: Notable increases in good bacteria such as certain Lactobacillus species and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii.

  • Decreased Potentially Harmful Bacteria: Reduction in potentially harmful bacteria like Escherichia coli and Sutterella stercoricanisin.

 

• Significant Response in Elderly Dogs: Elderly dogs showed the most evident response to probiotics.

  • Correlation with Immune Factors: Changes in the relative abundance of some bacterial species correlated with specific immune factors and physiological parameters.

  • Overall Health Improvement: Probiotic treatment was associated with improved overall health and enhanced immune health, likely through stimulation of antibody and cytokine secretion via gut microbiota regulation.

 

• By day 60 of probiotic treatment, the gut microbiota of elderly dogs resembled that of younger dogs. These findings indicate that probiotics can positively impact canine health and the immune system, particularly in older dogs, and offer insights for developing probiotic-based strategies to enhance both animal and human health.

 

Anxiety Alleviation 

 

Practice shows that some dogs are prone to gastrointestinal issues, which can often be related to anxiety. Sometimes even anxiety separation can lead to nervous intestines and different gastrointestinal issues. Probiotics can help balance the gut microbiota, promoting optimal digestive function and potentially alleviating anxiety-related gastrointestinal issues.

 

Note: Consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog probiotics to address anxiety and gastrointestinal issues.

Precautions and Considerations

 

Probiotics are generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most dogs. However, pet owners should exercise caution when introducing new supplements.

 

Possible Side Effects: How to Monitor Them?

 

When introducing a new supplement or a new food to your dog, it’s crucial to monitor their response closely. Promptly addressing any side effects can help protect your dog and ensure their well-being.

 

While probiotics support the dog's digestive health, they may sometimes cause digestive upset, including gas, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. If you observe these symptoms, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible. To minimize the risk of side effects, start with a lower dose and gradually increase it, allowing your dog to adjust.

 

Although rare, allergic reactions can occur and may manifest as itching, redness, hives, or swelling. If you notice any of these signs, discontinue use immediately and consult a veterinarian.

 

Tips to Prevent Side Effects:

 

• Introduce the supplement gradually.

• Monitor your dog’s behavior, appetite, stool, and overall health.

• Adjust the dosage as needed or consult with a veterinarian.

 

Importance of Choosing High-Quality Probiotics

There is no doubt that high-quality products are the best. But it’s not always easy to distinguish which product is good and which is not good.

 

Here at Jope, we consider a product high-quality if it meets the following criteria:

 

• Formulated by a veterinarian or a nutritionist expert.
• Backed by studies that support the claims. Without this, the affirmation lacks proof, and you can't be sure if the chosen strain effectively supports your pup's health.
• The correct dosage used in the studies.
• Stability is crucial for probiotics. Being living microorganisms, their potency decreases over time. Each strain has its own stability, and methods exist to extend their viability.
• Made in the US in a GMP-compliant and NASC-approved facility.
• Contains a limited amount of inactive ingredients.
• Third-party testing to ensure the correct quantities of active ingredients.
• Trusted by veterinarians, who are very careful with the products they select for their clinics.
• The company answers your questions.

 

Quality products provide the maximum benefits while minimizing adverse effects, though individual reactions can vary. Always read the label carefully to ensure purity and potency. Choose a product with proven longevity and stability for a longer shelf life.

 

Consulting With a Veterinarian 

 

Before starting any new supplement, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian. This approach ensures tailored recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs.

 

While probiotics for dogs may not lead to a complete recovery, they can significantly improve your dog’s overall health, particularly benefiting the digestive tract.

 

Top 5 Best Probiotics For Dogs

 

Studies specifically on probiotics for dogs and their efficacy are still limited but there are some and we must rely on what’s demonstrated. Veterinary professionals are actively exploring its benefits and incorporating it into various research initiatives.

 

We’ve found some of the best probiotics based on the quality of the product and its purpose, and also the customer’s experience and reviews. Let’s take a look!

 

Best Probiotic With Clay for Dogs

 

Clay is recommended for dogs with gastrointestinal health issues due to its ability to absorb toxins and harmful substances, stabilize digestive function, and soothe inflammation in the gut. Its natural properties help manage diarrhea, improve stool consistency, and provide essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. 

 

Pro-Kolin Advanced for Dogs by Protextin

 

Why trust it? 

 

• This probiotic supplement contains beneficial microorganisms, prebiotics, soothing fibers, and a dual-source binding agent.

 

• It contains pectin that soothes the gut lining and Psyllium that absorbs the excess water from the gastrointestinal tract. 

 

• Enterococcus faecium (DSM 10663/ NCIMB 10415) 4b1707 is scientifically proven to decrease the incidence of diarrhea in dog shelters. 

 

• The combination of ingredients can be highly effective, but we would have preferred a slightly simpler formulation to reduce the risk of allergies and adverse reactions

 

• Preplex includes two great ingredients that we especially value: FOS (fructooligosaccharides) and acacia gum

 

Full bucket Health Bioclay+ Paste

 

 

Why trust it? 

 

• This paste has a bioactive clay-based formula that can promote digestive health during occasional distress. 

 

• It contains 1.56 Billion CFU’s of Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii, a yeast strain of probiotic that is safe to use during antibiotic therapy. It is not as specifically studied as strains like Levucell ®. Nevertheless, but still, Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii remains a valuable component for maintaining digestive balance and supporting gut health during antibiotic treatment.

 

• It also contains L-Glutamine and bio-adsorbent clay that supports toxin removal. 

 

Best Probiotics for Diarrhea in Dogs

These probiotics are especially recommended for dogs that suffer from diarrhea.

You can learn more about best Probiotics for Dogs With Diarrhea

 

Protexin Synbiotic D-C 

 

 

Why trust it? 

 

• It contains Enterococcus faecium (DSM 10663/ NCIMB 10415) 4b1707 which helps repopulate the intestine with beneficial micro-organisms. At Jope, this is our favorite strain of probiotics for gut health. 

 

• Backed by a study on more than 700 dogs! This is one of the largest studies made on gut and digestive supplements to our knowledge. You know this is serious. 

 

• It contains a prebiotic, consisting of FOS (oligofructose) and acacia (Gum arabic) that stimulate the growth of good bacteria. FOS is our favorite prebiotic, with inulin, as it has been shown to support the development of several good bacteria.

 

• It offers a synbiotic action with a very good combination and no harmful ingredients besides.

 

• It’s in the form of powder (through capsules) making it more stable. 

 

Protexin is definitely the one we recommend the most as a gut-beneficial probiotic.

 

Purina Fortiflora Synbiotic

 

 

Why trust it? 

 

• The number one veterinarian-recommended dog probiotic brand for digestive health (Kantar Veterinary Tracker, 2021).

 

• Available as a probiotic powder supplement suitable for both puppies and adult dogs.

 

• It offers a synbiotic action of prebiotics and probiotics to manage diarrhea and support a healthy microflora. 

 

• This probiotic supplement contains Psyllium which stimulates the growth of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. While psyllium is beneficial, we would have loved to see FOS (fructooligosaccharides) included as well, as it is a highly effective prebiotic that synergizes very well with these beneficial bacteria.

 

Proviable Forte

 

 

Why trust it? 

 

• Contains 10 billion CFU’s per capsule and 7 strains of bacteria that improve the intestinal balance. It provides a diverse range of good bacteria, but not all of the strains have demonstrated consistent results in studies. This raises questions about the necessity and effectiveness of including so many different strains. 

 

• It also contains prebiotics to encourage the growth of good bacteria in the gut, but their effectiveness may vary. We would have preferred to see FOS (fructooligosaccharides), a highly effective prebiotic known for its proven benefits in supporting the growth of healthy gut bacteria.

 

• The content of each capsule can be easily sprinkled over the food.  

 

Best Maintenance Probiotics for Dogs

The following product is a unique blend that can be given every day even to healthy dogs to maintain healthy guts. The ones we just mentioned for diarrhea are also valid candidates for maintenance.

 

Animal Biome GI Relief

 

 

Why trust it? 

 

• Contains a triple and unique blend of phages (PreForPro), prebiotics (FOS), and probiotics (S. boulardii). 

 

• Made by a renowned company trusted by many veterinarians, known for their expertise in fecal microbiota transplant products.

 

• According to the manufacturers, it reduces the diarrhea caused by antibiotics, C. difficile, or E.coli. 

 

• Includes S. boulardii. While this strain is not as specifically studied as others, it is still considered beneficial for gut health.

 

Read More: Find out more about prebiotic supplements like FOS and Inulin. 

 

Best Probiotic for Dog Kidneys

The following probiotic is especially effective and recommended for dogs with renal issues.

 

Azodyl

 

 

Why trust it? 

 

• It helps in managing uremic toxins and leads to BUN and creatinine improvement in 4 weeks. 

 

• It contains bacteria strains that support the uremic environment including Streptococcus thermophilus KB19, Lactobacillus acidophilus KB27, and Bifidobacterium longum KB31.

 

• A human study on Renadyl in humans, which has similar strains, has shown promising results in managing uremic toxins in patients with kidney issues. The study highlights how these strains can help reduce the levels of harmful toxins in the body, supporting their potential efficacy in maintaining gut and overall health in dogs with similar conditions. But not studies have beend conducted in dogs yet. 

 

• This probiotic has an acid-resistant capsule that protects the bacteria until it reaches the colon. 

 

Conclusion

 

Probiotics are safe and well-tolerated by pets. They can be beneficial for both healthy animals, those with digestive issues, and other issues. The main advantages of these "friendly" microorganisms include improved gastrointestinal health and digestion. Additionally, probiotics can help alleviate allergic reactions, support weight balance, and enhance immune system function.

What benefits have you noticed in your dog since starting probiotics? We’d love to hear your experiences—let us know in the comments below!