Interesting Probiotics for Dogs and Why

Hey guys, this is Nikki, Lead Veterinary technician with Posh Dog Knee Braces.  So, today I would like to talk about probiotics for your dog.  Let’s face it, we have all had a dog with diarrhea or gastritis at one point, and it is not fun.  Weather you have a new puppy, and are switching to a better quality puppy food, or a dog that maybe likes to dumpster dive, or one that licks out of that gross water puddle on your walk, probiotics may be a good option for you. 

You can use probiotics therapy to help with their digestion, as well as immune system.

 They help with diarrhea, intestinal upset, and can also help with dog allergies.  If you have a female dog, they may also help in countering UTI’s, or even anxiety.  Some dog food manufacturers are getting on the probiotic train, and may already be adding this to their diet, especially some of the Raw food diets out there. 

I like to give my dog probiotics proactively, such as before I leave on a trip, if there will be a petsitter coming.  That is a stressful event, and I don’t need my dog to get a stressful tummy, or anxiety.  They can also be given as a daily part of long-term health. 

Did you know that 70% of your dog’s immune system is their GI tract?  It goes the same for people in that sense.  So, by taking care of your dog’s tummy, it makes for an easier transition if they need to take pain medications, supplements, stressful events coming up, or if they have acute diarrhea.  I typically will give at least 7-10 day course for a dog with loose stool/diarrhea, or a new puppy.  They can really help in prevention of stress colitis, and that very expensive veterinary visit that follows.  You can also add a tablespoon of canned pumpkin along with the probiotics if treating diarrhea, such as a new puppy. 

The good news is that there are lots of great probiotics available both by your veterinarian and online.  I really like Fortiflora personally, by purina, however, Zesty Paws also has a really nice product.  Just do your research, and make sure they have good reviews before purchasing.  Let me know if you have any questions, poshdogkneebrace.com or you can visit our Facebook page.