Prebiotics and probiotics for dogs

Just like us, dogs also need to eat a nutritious and balanced diet in order for them to live long, healthy lives. However, there often comes a time when we notice our four legged pals not acting themselves, and may present signs of being sick.

Stomach and digestive issues are common amongst dogs. It’s important to have your dog checked by a veterinarian if their stomach issues persist, but a good way to manage any digestive problem are with probiotics and prebiotics supplements.

What is a food supplement?

A food supplement is used in conjunction with your dog’s regular meals to improve his nutritive balance, usually with a particular function or purpose like helping with anxiety or reduced mobility. Supplements have lots of benefits, and can help with many quality of life issues your dog may be experiencing. It is recommended you give a specific amount of a supplement to your dog each day to ensure a healthy and happy lifestyle.

 They’re not to be confused with dog treats, however; a dog treat is relatively similar to normal food and is typically used as a reward, therefore doesn’t have to be given daily.

When feeding our four legged friends supplements or treats, please reduce their normal food amount to ensure they don’t exceed their overall daily calorie allowance.

What are prebiotics and probiotics?

Prebiotics and probiotics are special food supplements for dogs. They can support your dog with digestive disorders or intestinal diseases. They can also have a positive influence on the large intestine.

Prebiotics for dogs – indigestible substances

Prebiotics are by definition indigestible substances like carbohydrates. They lead to bacterial intestinal flora (also known as microbiomes) having sufficient food and thriving better. Strengthened intestinal bacteria support the large intestine and encourage health.

Prebiotics for dogs can only be fed in the form of high-quality dry food or wet food. Prebiotic vegetables like carrots, chicory roots or artichokes are particularly common.

Probiotics for dogs – living microorganisms

In contrast to prebiotics, probiotics for dogs are living microorganisms. If a dog consumes bacteria as a food supplement in its food, it rebalances the intestinal flora and helps with digestion.

When should I use prebiotics or probiotics for my dog?

If your dog’s intestinal flora is impaired due to digestive disorders or intestinal diseases, you can strengthen your dog’s intestinal bacteria with the help of prebiotics and probiotics:

If your dog is suffering from diarrhoea or flatulence, you can give them the supporting substances in its food.

Since antimicrobial medication doesn’t just kill pathogenic bacteria, the intestinal bacteria that are part of the intestinal flora are preventively protected by probiotic or prebiotic agents.

Our recommendations:

• Adding a good daily probiotic like Canigest Probiotic for Dogs. helps maintain a healthy digestive system and it is particularly suitable for feeding to dogs to assist in the nutritional management of digestive tract upsets.
• VIYO Immune Prebiotic Drink for Dogs works preventively to support the immune system in the intestine at all times by supporting the good bacteria, through which the intestines can work better.
• Vet’s Menu Gravy Topper with Chicken & Vegetables is made with a delicious natural chicken flavour and only the finest quality ingredients. It contains prebiotic fibres to help feed friendly bacteria and support your dog’s digestive system.
• Frozzys Superbites with Probiotics are healthy and nutritious treats made from natural ingredients with a focus on Digestive Health.