Did you know – the number one reason that dogs of any age or size end up at the vet relates to gut health?
You already know that the digestive systems of humans are ecosystems that are filled with good bacteria that are crucial to our well-being. So, probiotics are healthful for humans, do they work for dogs too?
Let’s check out the what, why and how – everything you want to know about probiotics to keep your pet healthy.
What are probiotics for dogs?
Probiotics are live bacteria that are useful for maintaining good gut and overall health. Probiotics for dogs work very much the same as they do for humans to eliminate gastrointestinal problems and improve gut health.
Probiotics can be administered to dogs as pills, powders, chews, or even dog food. When it reaches the gastral intestinal track where the dog’s immune system is located, it outweighs any bad bacteria to support their overall health.
A good probiotic supplement will include a multitude of different good bacteria strains to help address a wide variety of possible attacks on your pup’s immune system, be it environmental stress, dietary alterations, allergens, lifestyle changes, or health issues.
Do dogs need probiotics?
Much like with humans, it is recommended that all dogs be on probiotics, but it can be especially essential for young puppies and small dogs. When your pup is just growing, they have a particularly sensitive stomach and can experience higher levels of stress. Empirical evidence shows that it is most common for smaller dog breeds to have lifelong digestion issues.
Though the number one reason that dogs of any age or size end up at the vet relates to gut health. Since the dog’s immune system is in the G.I. track, stress that affects their gut biome will affect their overall health.
Getting your pet started on a good probiotic, no matter their breed or age, will mitigate that and help in a lot of other areas too, to keep them happy and healthy.
What are the benefits of probiotics for dogs?
The word probiotic stems from the Greek term pro bios meaning “of life,” and the essential bacteria in probiotics have so many quality-of-life benefits for dogs.
Some of the main benefits include counteracting the negative effects that stress has on your pet’s gut health and immune system. This can be stress from allergies, being left alone at home for long hours, having moved, or having an illness of any kind. It also helps in improving your pet’s ability to digest and absorb minerals, encouraging B vitamin production, assisting with weight issues, and even enhancing the oral health of your pet. It can reduce odors on your dog from their coat to their breath and gas.
- Prevention of, or faster recovery from bouts with diarrhea,
- Decrease in intestinal gas,
- Help controlling blood sugar and cholesterol levels,
- Improve immune response,
- Reduced inflammation,
- Faster recovery,
- Improved antioxidant levels.
Types of Probiotics for Dogs
Different probiotics offer specific strains of bacteria, which have been found to support and target different health issues that you are looking to address.
Generally, you want to look for a probiotic that has 5-10+ bacterial strains, with each specific strain having between 100 and 300 million colony forming units or CFUs to add up to between 500 million to 3 billion CFUs per serving, depending on the size of your dog.
You want to look for no additives, and that it’s manufactured in a GMP certified facility.
Beyond that, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian to see which types of bacteria specifically you want to be sure are included in your dog’s probiotic. What we can tell you are the different formats these probiotics come in and why you might choose one or the other.
Standardly, there are capsules, but most dogs have trouble taking pills, so there are other options. Chews are a popular choice as most dogs will think they are treats and lap them up. Powders are another great one as they can be dissolved into your dog’s food or water. You can even get dog food with a formula that includes probiotics.
Top 7 Probiotics for Dogs
Here’s our review and break down the information you want to know on the current market’s seven top-selling probiotics formulated specifically for dogs!
1. Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites – best for dogs with indigestion
The Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites soft chews include a six-strain probiotic blend with a pumpkin flavoring.
- Support Fido's Tummy - These functional soft chew supplements have a base of pumpkin and papaya (sources of...
- Features Clinically Studied DE111 Probiotic - This chewable functional supplement contains DE111, a clinically...
- Six-Strain Probiotic Powder Blend - These chewables contain six probiotics (live bacteria) that support gut...
- Supports Doggy Gut Flora - Probiotic Bites help support microflora for occasional gastric distress...
Feeding Dosage
You’ll receive 90 bites, one a day for small dogs, two a day for medium dogs, and three a day for large dogs.
Active Ingredients, Potency & Benefits
This product does not include meat products, grains, corn, or soy. These are a delicious vegan option that pups love!
- Bacillus Subtilis DE111 (Unique!)
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus
- Lactobacillus Plantarum
- Lactobacillus Brevis
- Lactobacillus Fermentum
- Lactococcus Lactis
- 3 billion CFUs per 1 chew serving
- Cost effective
Things to think about
- If your dog is used to meat treats, it may not appeal to them.
Summary:
The Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites (view on Amazon) has 6 strains of probiotics and has a serving potency of 3 billion CFUs and has been proven to help immune response for all breed sizes. It claims to be great specifically for constipation, indigestion, gas, and bloating. This is the only probiotic on this list with the unique strain Bacillus Subtilis DE111, which has great research supporting it.
2. Purina FortiFlora Probiotics for Dogs – best for dogs with diarrhea
Purina FortiFlora has been awarded top recommendations from veterinarians for its use of 2019 research to select its active bacteria.
- One (1) 30-Count Box - Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Probiotics Dog Supplement, Fortiflora Canine...
- Probiotic recommended by veterinarians (Kynetec, Probiotic Recommendation Study, March 2019)
- A Probiotic supplement for the dietary management of puppies and adult dogs with diarrhea
- Contains a probiotic to promote normal intestinal microflora. Helps reduce flatulence
Feeding Dosage
It is administered in a powder format, which is easy to feed by sprinkling over your pup’s food. 30 single-serve packets are in each box.
Active Ingredients, Potency & Benefits
Purina FortiFlora focuses specifically on its well-research active bacteria and does not have a prebiotic included or any other strains of probiotics.
- Enterococcus Faecium.
- 100 million CFUs per gram.
- Vitamins E, B, and C, antioxidants, beta-carotene, and zinc.
- Uses up to date research.
- Made in the USA.
- Great for puppies experiencing soft stool or gas.
Things to think about
- Contains salt, which means it will not be a good pick if your dog suffers from heart disease.
- Low potency, less strains.
- More expensive per serving than other options.
Summary:
The Purina FortiFlora Probiotics for Dogs (view on Amazon) has a single active ingredient selected based on 2019 research and has a potency of 100 million CFUs per one packet serving. This ingredient has been proven to target diarrhea or soft stool, and Purina claims it is safe for puppies and adults. It is made in the USA.
3. PetHonesty Probiotic for Dogs – best for dogs with allergies
The PetHonesty Probiotic is a seven-strain chew with a superfood base made of carrots, duck, sweet potato, and flaxseed.
- More Probiotics Per Serving (6 Billion CFUs) - Our Probiotics soft chews for dogs help support proper...
- Premium Natural Ingredients + Made In The U.S.A. - At PetHonesty we're committed to premium quality...
- Supports Healthy Digestion + Nutrient Absorption - Our Probiotic soft chews balances your dog's intestinal...
- Soft Chews Act Like Treats & Create A Bonding Experience - Our Probiotics supplements have a delicious natural...
Feeding Dosage
You’ll receive 90 chews and servings are 1 for small, 2 for medium, and 3 for large dogs.
Active Ingredients, Potency & Benefits
Their recipe boasts no artificial flavorings or chemical, and no soy, corn, or wheat. If your dog is sensitive to any of those ingredients, this might be a great option. The recipe does include fiber-rich pumpkin and an enzyme blend that supports healthy nutrient absorption and digestion.
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
- Lactobacillus Plantarum.
- Lactobacillus Brevis.
- Enterococcus Faecium.
- Lactobacillus Fermentum.
- Lactococcus Lactis.
- Inulin Prebiotic.
- 3 billion CFUs per 1 chew serving.
- Great for dogs that suffer with allergies.
- Made in a GMP compliant facility that is FDA approved.
Things to think about
- Must be taken on a full stomach.
Summary:
The PetHonesty Probiotic for Dogs (view on Amazon) has 7 strains of probiotics and has a serving potency of 3 billion CFUs and is produced in a GMP compliant facility. These chews focus on supporting overall health as well as maintaining a healthy weight, gut PH, and reducing symptoms of allergies.
4. Glandex Anal Gland Soft Chew Treats with Pumpkin for Dogs – best for dogs with scooting
Galndex’s Anal Gland Soft Chew Treats are more focused on banishing scooting from your dog’s bad behavior list, while including a strain of probiotics as well for added benefits.
- SUPPORTS HEALTHY ANAL GLANDS: Glandex is scientifically formulated to support healthy anal glands. With key...
- GUARANTEED TO BOOT THE SCOOT: Glandex results are guaranteed to help your pet "Boot the Scoot!” in 3-5 weeks...
- VETERINARIAN RECOMMENDED: Glandex is recommended by thousands of veterinarians worldwide & was developed by...
- PATENTED FORMULA: Glandex’s patented formula includes all-natural ingredients to keep your dog's anal glands...
Feeding Dosage
There are 30 chews per bottle.
Active Ingredients, Potency & Benefits
It puts the probiotic on equal footing with the other ingredients of apple pectin, flaxseed, pumpkin seed, bromelain, and quercetin, rather than having probiotics at the top and added ingredients below it like other options on this list.
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
- 480 million CFUs per 1 chew serving.
- Stool firming agents include apple pectin and pumpkin seed.
- Flaxseed and Quercetin for general health.
- Bromelain for digestion and normal histamine levels.
- Does not contain corn, soy, wheat, artificial ingredients, or preservatives.
- Peanut butter flavor is universally loved by dogs.
Things to think about
- Only one probiotic strain.
- Must half the chew for a small dog.
- Not recommended for new puppies.
Summary:
The Glandex Anal Gland Soft Chew Treats with Pumpkin for Dogs (view on Amazon) have a great peanut butter taste that dogs love and has one strain of probiotic at 480 million CFUs per serving, which is a solid potency for only one strain. This one will be for dogs experiencing specific issues like scooting or diarrhea.
5. Doggie Dailies Probiotics for Dogs – best for dogs overall health
Doggie Dailies Probiotics include 5 powerful strains including probiotics and prebiotics in a yummy duck flavor that pets love. They can be served as a chew or crushed and mixed with your dog’s food. These dailies are a good all-around probiotic that helps to restore good bacteria after your dog has been sick, supports good-smelling breath, a shiny coat, immunity, and digestion.
- Effective Blend of Probiotics with Prebiotics for Dogs, Made with Real Duck - This powerful combination of...
- Maintaining the Good Bacteria in Your Dog's Gut is Vital To Their Overall Health - Our Soft Chews Make That...
- A Healthy & Delicious Treat Your Dog Will Love - Dogs of all sizes love our canine probiotics and owners are...
- Safe for Dogs of All Ages, Sizes & Breeds - Our dog probiotics are great for puppies, senior dogs, or any pup...
Feeding Dosage
Each bottle contains 225 soft chews, making these very cost effective, especially if you have a larger dog and will be needing to use more chews.
Active Ingredients, Potency & Benefits
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
- Lactobacillus Plantarum.
- Lactobacillus Brevis.
- Lactobacillus Fermentum.
- Lactococcus Lactis.
- 200 million CFUs per strain.
- 1 billion CFU per serving.
- Made in a GMP compliant facility in an independent lab.
- Very cost effective.
Things to think about
- On the lower end of recommended CFUs per serving.
Summary:
The Doggie Dailies Probiotics for Dogs (view on Amazon) are a great overall choice with 5 strains and a potency of 1 billion CFUs per serving. If your dog has been on antibiotics recently and you’re simply concerned about their overall health, these are the perfect option.
6. NUSENTIA Probiotic Miracle Dog Probiotics – effective for dogs and cats
If you have both dogs and cats in your household, even a mix of kittens and puppies too, the NUSENTIA Probiotic Miracle is going to be the one for you.
- The Original probiotics for dogs and cats. 360 scoops per jar. (that's 360 Billion CFU per jar). Great value...
- The #1 TRUSTED PROBIOTICS FOR PETS: 12 years of consistent, Natural results combatting dog diarrhea, loose...
- VET Recommended - No rice. No Maltodextrin. Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Non Dairy, No Soy, No Fillers, No...
- Feel Confident: Made in USA at GMP certified facility. Quality tested.
Feeding Dosage
Boasting a gentle effectiveness, this jar of probiotic powder contains up to 360 scoops. This format makes it easy to up or lower a serving depending on the size of your animal.
Active Ingredients, Potency & Benefits
These are dairy, gluten, byproduct, flavor additive, and filler free, plus contain 6 effective live probiotic cultures and 1 pre-biotic.
- Inulin Pre-biotic.
- Bifidobacterium Animalis Lactis.
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
- Lactobacillus Rhamnosus.
- Lactobacillus Salivarius.
- Lactobacillus Plantarum.
- Lactococcus Reuteri.
- 1 billion CFUs per scoop.
- Great for puppies, kittens, dogs, and cats.
- Very Cost Effective.
Things to think about
- Purely probiotic, no added benefits like enzymes or vitamins.
- On the lower end of recommended CFUs per serving.
Summary:
At a potency of 1 billion CFUs per serving and 6 probiotic strains plus 1 pre-biotic, the NUSENTIA Probiotic Miracle Dog Probiotics (view on Amazon) is great for those looking for pure probiotics for their animals.
This supplement supports general benefits like breath and body odor regulation, stool regularity, gas reduction, yeast control, healthy skin and coat, and stronger immunity.
7. Pet Ultimates Probiotics for Dogs – best for dogs skin health
Pet Ultimates Probiotics for Dogs contain the most versatile strain set on our list today with a whopping 22 bacteria species. In fact, they proudly feature the most strains in a probiotic for dogs made to date (2021).
- DON'T BE FOOLED - many products contain just one species and as little as 1/20th as much active ingredient of...
- NONE OF THE BAD STUFF - Don't fall for Chinese-made dog probiotics or products using sugar, grain...
- EASILY-DISPENSED POWDER ELIMINATES CHOKING RISK - Stop forcing huge tablets down your best friend's throat!...
- MORE SPECIES – Most of our competitors just slap a label on some random manufacturer's off the shelf,...
Feeding Dosage
Their powder formula is easily dissolved into water or food to eliminate the risk of choking on a chew. A 1/4 tsp. scoop in included in the product container. Use 1 scoop daily for dogs up to 50 pounds, 2 scoops daily for dogs over 50 pounds.
Active Ingredients, Potency & Benefits
They do not add any sugars, grains, or animal digests in their base.
- Inulin Pre-Biotic
- Bifidobacterium Adolescentis
- B. Animalis
- B. Bifidum
- B. Infontis
- B. Langum
- Enterococcus Thermophilus
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus
- L. Brevis
- L. Bulgaricus
- L. Cosei
- L. Cellobiosus
- L. Delbrueckii
- L. Fermentum
- L. Helveticus
- L. Lactis
- L. Plantarum
- L. Reuteri
- Pediococcus Acidilactici
- P. Pentosaceus
- Propionibacterium Freudenreichii
- P. Shermonii
- 2 billion CFUs per serving
- Made in the USA
- GMP Certified Facility
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Things to think about
- Contains salt, which means it will not be a good pick if your dog suffers from heart disease.
- More strains, less potency per strain.
Summary:
The Pet Ultimates Probiotics for Dogs (view on Amazon) have 22 strains of bacteria and a potency of 2 billion CFUs per serving. Because of how powerful this product, is we recommend it for larger dogs over small pups.
Final Thoughts
Probiotics are especially useful for treating gastrointestinal problems, and overall well-being. They are useful in preventing diarrhea in pets, and may help with managing blood sugar and lowering cholesterol.
Recap: The Best Probiotics for Dogs, sorted by health purposes:
There are many great probiotic supplements on the market. We hope our top-selling list above will help you to narrow them down – and find the right probiotic supplement for your adorable pup!
Of course you should always be sensitive to the help of your pet and take them to a veterinarian as needed.
