Best Dog Probiotics: Top 5 Canine Gut Health Supplements Most Recommended By Experts -

Searching for the best probiotics for your dog? You’ve landed in the right place! We’ve found the benefits of dog probiotics, as well as the five products experts recommend the most. If you’re on the fence about why probiotics have exploded in popularity, know that they’re deemed generally safe for use and there are some studies to back them up.

One study found what you feed your puppy today may determine their health in the years to come. In a poll, 2,000 dog owners expressed that their pups have large amounts of GI issues. In fact, 46 percent of owners have hundreds of “mini-panics” per year about their pet’s poop being an unusual consistency. What’s a pet parent to do? When buying day-to-day food for their furry friend, 48 percent look for added probiotics to support their pet’s digestive health.

The gut microbiome, which has thousands of bacterial organisms, is also linked to a better mood. Scientists at the University of Virginia conducted a study on mice by feeding them a probiotic bacteria found in live-culture yogurts called Lactobacillus. The team found that eating yogurt largely reversed the rodents’ depression-like symptoms.

Just like in humans, a dog’s healthy gut can lead to better overall well-being. The best dog probiotics contain good bacteria that can help improve your dog’s gut flora, among other things. There are a variety of claimed beneficial effects, such as reduced gas and firmer stools. So, keep reading to find out the perfect probiotic supplement for your four-legged friend, as recommended by experts!

The List: Top 5 Dog Probiotics, According To 13 Experts

1. Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Probiotic Supplement

According to Chewy, “Purina FortiFlora dog probiotic is formulated with strains of bacteria like enterococcus faecium to help dogs with loose stool or upset digestive tracts. In addition to the live microorganisms, this powder form probiotic also has antioxidants to support overall digestive health.”

It’s also a top choice for BetterPet: “This is our No.1 probiotic for pups. It’s packed with antioxidants and comes in pre-measured packages. An added bonus: dogs seem to love the taste! Purina Fortiflora is widely used and recommended by veterinarians. This supplement is designed for dogs that struggle with diarrhea and poor intestinal health. These once-daily packets of powder can be sprinkled directly onto your dog’s food.”

The Spruce Pets says, “Purina Fortiflora Canine Nutritional Supplement comes in pre-measured packets, making it easier to ensure that your dog is getting a daily dose of probiotics. Designed to be sprinkled over your dog’s food, Fortiflora is liver-flavored, making it irresistible to most dogs. The Purina probiotic supplement powder also provides vitamin E, protein, and antioxidants. Fortiflora is meant in particular for puppies and adult dogs with diarrhea problems. It can also help reduce flatulence.”

2. Honest Paws Pre + Probiotic

I Love Veterinary loves this brand: “Honest Paws Pre + Probiotic is a blend of two powerful probiotics specifically designed to support your dog’s digestive health. The benefits of probiotics don’t stop there! They can also help to boost your dog’s immune system, improve their skin and coat condition, and even reduce the number of bad bacteria in their gut. This product is in powder form, which is more bioavailable and makes it more effective.”

And amNY says, “This Pre + Probiotics is a custom formula that contains a probiotic blend that keeps your pup’s digestive system in top shape. It contains a prebiotic to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in your dog’s stomach and a probiotic to help with the digestive process and the maintenance of a healthy gut. You’re also getting a set of unique ingredients that support your dog’s immune system. It has a natural roasted chicken flavor, which makes it super easy to administer.”

Veterinarians.org recommends this “health-boosting blend of probiotics and prebiotics that support overall health.” One of their consulted vets says, “I recommend Honest Paws Pre+Probiotic because it comes in powder packages with chicken flavors that are usually palatable to canines and easy to add to each meal. I recommend using them once a day for 5 consecutive days if there is a GI disturbance, but they could be used daily long term in patients that have sensitive gastrointestinal tract.”

3. Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites

“These chewables from Zesty Paws contain premium ingredients with all of the probiotic power your pup needs. They support gut flora with six probiotic strains that work together to treat stomach conditions like diarrhea, bloating and gas. Regularly consuming these probiotics can relieve your dog of stomach distress, as well as problems such as constipation and indigestion. Importantly, these probiotics contain Bacillus subtilis, which is clinically proven to improve digestion and strengthen the immune system,” The Kansas City Star writes.

Health Canal says these are the “best probiotic treats” because of these features: “Flavorful soft chew is easy to administer. Contains six strains of live bacteria to support intestinal health. Relieves gastric distress and supports immune health.”

Outlook even recommends these for dogs suffering from allergies: “Hot spots, itchy paws, and irritated ears are no match for Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites. These chicken or pumpkin flavored soft chews are specially formulated with six probiotics that support gut flora, gut function, and immune health. These tasty functional dog chews optimize your dog’s gut, which has a direct impact on skin and coat health, energy levels, and even cognitive function.”

4. Pupper Digest

According to Discover Magazine, “These chews for dogs’ digestive systems are made with all-natural ingredients that aid in the maintenance and function of your dog’s digestive system while also preparing it to deal with any future problems. A healthy mix of bacteria is essential for a dog’s health. Probiotics have several benefits, including assisting your dog in digestion, assimilation, and maintenance of a strong immune system.”

Orlando Magazine also recommends it: “Most people don’t have a strategy to address digestive problems. They wait for their dog to become sick and then take care of it. Diarrhea and vomiting are frequent health issues for both dogs and cats. The good news is that the stomach lining of your pet’s gut regenerates on its own every 3-4 days, making it a very fast-healing organ. This implies that an upset tummy in your dog or cat is usually a short-term problem and can frequently be treated at home as long as your pet does not have any other complicating factors. Digestive (or gastrointestinal) foods are the simplest way to go about it.”

5. HolistaPet

Dallas Magazine is impressed by this brand’s holistic approach to wellness: “Not only will HolistaPet Probiotic Soft Gummies for Dogs treat your dog’s digestive issues, but they’ll also get him or her on the road to improved health. Each heart-shaped chew has a unique combination of 9 healthy bacteria, totaling 3 billion CFU, which can help your dog’s digestion get back in balance. Additionally, these probiotic treats will provide your dog the extra push they require to maintain good digestive health because they contain a delicious and advantageous sweet potato and pumpkin mixture in every mouthful!”

The Island Now says, “Holistapet’s exclusive probiotics chew for dogs is delectable. It features sweet potato and pumpkin flavors, giving your pup the additional push to maintain excellent digestive health. These chewy sticks may help keep digestive issues at bay. In addition, they may increase the beneficial microorganisms in your dogs’ gut, helping them to restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in their intestinal tract.”

Pro tip: Some probiotics must be stored in the refrigerator, so make sure to read the label.

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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. Study Finds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Tags: dogs, probiotics