Probiotics for Dogs
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Do dogs need probiotics? Gut health benefits, when to use them, best probiotic supplements, and probiotic-rich foods for dogs.
Key Information
What You Need to Know
Practical Recommendations
Expert Tips
Understanding the Research
Budgeting for Pet Care
Related Guides
Explore more of our comprehensive pet care resources.
- All Pet Care Guides
- Dog Health Resources
- Cat Health Resources
- Pet Care Tools & Calculators
- Find Local Vets & Pet Services
Quick Answers
Where can I learn more?
A probiotic is a specific strain and a specific count of live organisms. Veterinary studies are strain by strain. Ask the clinic which product they use for antibiotic-associated diarrhea. A yogurt cup has no guaranteed live-organism count, and some dogs do poorly with lactose.
How often should I take my pet to the vet?
A probiotic powder does not treat parvovirus, a foreign body, or acute hemorrhagic diarrhea. Puppies with loose stool are seen promptly, and healthy puppies are also examined every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks for fecal tests and vaccines. Adult dogs need at least a yearly exam, and dogs from about 7 years, giant breeds earlier, who are handed a probiotic for soft stool are still examined about every six months so the powder is not standing in for bloodwork. Diarrhea that lasts more than a day, blood in the stool, or a dog too tired to drink should be seen now. Whether a probiotic is even useful is a clinic decision.
How can I save money on pet care?
Use the product for the course the clinic suggested, then stop if the stool is normal. Cancel the flavored-chew subscription once the stool has stayed normal through the course the clinic suggested. A sudden bloody stool needs a same-day clinic visit. Leave the probiotic jar closed and go in.