Do you have a question? for Whatsapp click here

Probiotics for dogs after diarrhea: support for healthy digestion

from Sebastian Moll

If your dog has or has had diarrhea, it is often accompanied by great concern. After all, intestinal health is an important cornerstone for the general well-being of our four-legged friends. One way to help the digestive tract get back on track after a gastrointestinal upset is to use probiotics. Below you will find out what probiotics are, how they work and what you should look out for.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are living microorganisms (usually lactic acid bacteria or yeasts) that – when administered in sufficient quantities – can have a positive effect on the intestines. They support the balance of the intestinal flora by promoting “good” bacteria and preventing “bad” bacteria from multiplying excessively.

Why probiotics after diarrhea?

  1. Restoring intestinal flora : Diarrhea can upset the delicate balance in the intestines. It can lead to a loss of important bacterial strains that play a central role in digestion. Probiotics help to rebuild these strains.

  2. Supporting the immune system : A large part of the immune system is located in the intestines. By stabilizing the intestinal flora, probiotics also indirectly strengthen the dog's own defenses.

  3. Reduced recovery time : Studies suggest that probiotics can reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea. Faster recovery means less stress for both dog and owner.

How are probiotics administered?

  • Powder or capsules : Many veterinarians recommend preparations specially formulated for dogs. These can be easily mixed into food or hidden in treats.
  • Enriched foods : Some dog foods already contain probiotics. It's worth taking a look at the packaging.
  • Yeast cultures : Studies have shown that special yeasts (e.g. Saccharomyces boulardii) can support the intestinal flora particularly effectively.

It is important to choose products that are specifically designed for dogs – human probiotics often have different bacterial strains and are not always suitable.

How do you recognize good probiotics?

  1. Declaration of bacterial strains : A high-quality probiotic specifically states which strains (e.g. Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium animalis) and in which concentration (CFU – colony forming units) are contained.
  2. Proper storage : Probiotics are sensitive. Check the manufacturer's instructions to see if the product needs to be refrigerated.
  3. Transparent origin : Trustworthy products come from reputable manufacturers who have their probiotics regularly tested.

When should you visit the vet?

Mild gastrointestinal upset can often be controlled with a light diet (e.g. boiled chicken and rice) and probiotics. However, if the diarrhea lasts longer than two days and the dog shows additional symptoms such as vomiting, fever, severe lethargy or blood in the stool, a veterinarian should be consulted. An accurate diagnosis is essential to rule out serious causes.

Conclusion

After a bout of diarrhea, probiotics can balance the dog's intestinal flora, strengthen the immune system and shorten the recovery time. It is important to choose high-quality products and always seek advice from a veterinarian if symptoms persist. This way, the dog stays fit and vital - even after an unpleasant bout of diarrhea.

Sources

  1. American Kennel Club (AKC): Probiotics for Dogs
  2. VCA Hospitals: Probiotics in Dogs
  3. Weese JS, et al. Assessment of commercial probiotic bacterial viability and label accuracy . Canadian Veterinary Journal. 2019;60(4):361–366.
  4. Weese JS, Arroyo L. Bacteriotherapy for the treatment of gastrointestinal dysbiosis in dogs . Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 2013; 27(2): 476-479.

(Note: This blog post is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice from a veterinarian.)

Back to News