Prebiotics and probiotics
While they’re related, they do different things:
🐾Probiotics = live beneficial bacteria
🐾Prebiotics = fibres that feed those beneficial bacteria
🐾 Benefits of Probiotics🐾
Probiotics are helpful bacteria that support the gut microbiome.
🐾Improved Digestion
They help break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently, reducing:
Gas
Bloating
Loose stools
🐾Relief from Diarrhoea
Especially useful after:
Antibiotic use
Stress
Diet changes
Probiotics help restore healthy gut bacteria balance
🐾Stronger Immune System
About 70% of a dog’s immune system is linked to the gut
🐾Reduced Allergies & Itching
Some dogs with skin allergies may benefit from probiotics because gut health influences inflammation and immune response
🐾Support for Sensitive Stomachs
Dogs with digestive issues often respond well to probiotic supplementation
🐾Benefits of Prebiotics for Dogs🐾
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibre’s that feed good bacteria (Probiotic)
🐾Promote Growth of Good Bacteria
They help probiotics survive/thrive in the gut
🐾Improve Stool Quality
Firmer stools
Regular bowel movements
🐾Better Nutrient Absorption
They enhance mineral absorption and overall gut efficiency
🐾Long-Term Gut Health
Prebiotics help maintain a healthy gut environment over time
🐾 When Dogs May Benefit Most
Prebiotics and probiotics can be helpful if your dog:
🐾Has frequent diarrhoea/constipation
🐾Has recently finished antibiotics
🐾Has food sensitivities
🐾Experiences stress-related digestive issues
🐾Is a senior dog with slowing digestion
🐾Important things to note🐾
🐾Always choose products made specifically for dogs
🐾Introduce gradually to avoid temporary gas/loose stools
🐾Consult your vet before starting supplements - especially for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with medical conditions (Some supplements can affect the effectiveness of medication)
🐾Products vary in form (powder/chew/tablet)
🐾Synbiotic - combine prebiotics + probiotics, meaning they add good bacteria and feed them
🐾Some formulas also include postbiotics (beneficial by-products of probiotics) for extra gut support
🐾Potency may differ, always follow dosing guidelines