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As dog lovers, we are increasingly turning to supplements for added canine nutritional benefits. Our dog's digestive health, powers not only our dogs emotional wellbeing, but also our own.
Inconsistent stools, diarrhoea, constipation and stomach upsets are among the most common signs of digestive discomfort in dogs. This may be reduced or significantly improved with the addition of a probiotic supplement.
Probiotics contain "good" bacteria meant to improve your dog’s gut flora. They have a variety of claimed beneficial effects, such as reduced gas and firmer stools.
We take a closer look at five probiotic supplements available on the UK market and try and help match them to you and of course, your dog's needs.
You can use the links below to skip to the relevant section - or read on for every last detail to help you find the perfect probiotic for your dog.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Our Picks of the Best Probiotic Supplements
2. Best Probiotic Chews - PetLab Co.
Buying Advice for Dog Probiotic Supplements
A quick word about supplements for dogs.
We've found that supplements can be a very confusing area to investigate. Many of the supplements and their ingredients have real theoretical benefits.
However, we've found that whilst independent research is still limited, there is an abundance of anecdotal evidence to help dog lovers select a product.
Here are some general guidelines to bear in mind when you are choosing a probiotic supplement for your dog :-
🐾 Look for several bacteria strains
There are many different strains of beneficial bacteria, and each one offers different benefits. For example, some strains can help with digestion, while others can help boost the immune system.
A good probiotic will contain a variety of strains to provide your dog with the most comprehensive benefits.
🐾 Know the difference between probiotics and prebiotics ?
Probiotics and prebiotics are often misunderstood. Probiotics (sometimes called microbiotics) are foods or supplements that contain a source of live, beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics, provide sustenance to these bacteria.
🐾 Choose a palatable option
Do you have a picky pup ? Our review of dog probiotic supplements includes a range of tablets, powders and chews so you can decide which is most palatable for your dog - because you know them best!
🐾 Select a probiotic with a money-back guarantee.
That way, you can try the supplement and see if it works for your dog without any risk.
🐾 Chat to your vet
We recommend talking to your vet about which probiotic is most suited to your dog's needs.
All the brands featured in our review can be bought as a one-off purchase or you can take advantage of their subscription service to make substantial savings.
Our Picks of the Best Probiotic Supplements
1. Best Overall Dog Probiotic
Pooch & Mutt
Pooch & Mutt is one of the UK's most award-winning premium pet food brands. Their focus is on natural, functional products and their first ever product - Bionic Biotic features in first place in our review.
Bionic Biotic is one of their best sellers, so let's take a closer look at why so many dog lovers swear by it.
A vet recommended probiotics for dogs, it's packed full of natural ingredients and designed to be sprinkled over your dog’s food.
Perfect if your dog dislikes taking tablets, as it's super easy to incorporate into your dog’s normal feeding routine. If you feed kibble then you can mix the powder with salmon oil before adding to dry food to help it 'stick'.
The main reason we've awarded it top place in our review is because it's a multipurpose supplement with a comprehensive range of benefits for your dog including -
⭐️ Improves digestion & solid stools
⭐️ Prevents itching & scratching
⭐️ Improves skin & coat health
So ultimately, by adding this one supplement to your dog's diet, you can address several common problem areas at once.
In testing over the course of 2 months, we found a marked improvement in our testers stools. All poop throughout the day was solid and the frequent scooting stopped.
Bionic Biotic contains chicory root which is an excellent fibre source. This natural fibre helps increase the size and weight of your dog's stool whilst softening it to make it easy to pass. So it can relieve constipation, diarrhoea and end that dreaded scooting !
Another key ingredient, Salmon Oil, is a rich source of Omega 3 fatty acids which can help lessen inflammation caused by allergies or other skin issues.
Ultimately, Pooch & Mutt are so confident in Bionic Biotic that they offer a money back guarantee for on-line purchases.
It's worth mentioning that Pooch & Mutt also offer a range of three meaty probiotic dog treats and have recently launched Peanut Butter Probiotic Treats. These vegan, grain free treats contain dietary fibre, Tapioca which benefits pooches with allergies and sensitivities, and Probiotics to help digestion and nutrient uptake.
Our Verdict - With many lovers seeing a difference within 3 weeks and countless 5 ⭐️ reviews talking about digestive problems disappearing, we think Bionic Biotic is a great all-round super supplement. |
Form : Powder
Quantity: 200g (lasts 10-25kg dog a month)
Reasons to Buy
+ Multipurpose health supplement
+ Natural ingredients
+ Easy to add to current food
Reasons to Avoid
- If you're looking to treat a specific health issue
Buying Options
Save 20% OFF
with Pooch & Mutt discount code SMARTBARK20
2. Best Probiotic Chews
Pet Lab Co.
Based in London, PetLab Co. was founded after the co-founder's dog passed away, leading them to want to help other pet lovers keep their dogs healthy.
They offer dog supplements that address common canine health concerns like gut health, immune support and joint care.
Used by over 1 million dog lovers worldwide, their Probiotic Chews are one of the best-selling dog health supplements on Amazon, with countless 5 ⭐️ reviews.
So what did we think in testing ?
Here at Smart Bark, we love supplement chews, seriously we're in favour of anything to make life easier.
For many dogs, chews are a treat! They'll gobble them up readily without any fuss, making daily supplements a breeze.
Chews often come in delicious flavours that dogs enjoy, ensuring they get their probiotics without any resistance.
No need to worry about measuring out the correct amount - each chew typically contains a single serving.
A single tub of PetLab Co. Probiotic Support comes with 30 delicious salmon flavoured soft chews that dogs will love.
Each 4 gram chew is packed with a unique blend of beneficial ingredients to support your dog's gut health:
⭐️ Probiotics: A proprietary blend of two helpful bacteria, each chew containing over 2 million CFUs (Colony Forming Units) to promote a balanced gut microbiome.
⭐️ Prebiotics: Inulin (from chicory root) acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment for the good bacteria in your dog's digestive system.
⭐️ Digestive Support: Kelp and potato fibre contribute to healthy digestion and overall gut health.
⭐️ Natural Antioxidants: Blueberry powder offers a boost of antioxidants.
PetLab Co. recommend taking their probiotics for 3 months to see the best results.
Of course, the dosage varies depending on your dog's size:
Small Dogs (under 10 kg): Just 1 chew daily, a tub will last a month
Medium Dogs (10-35 kg): 2 chews are recommended each day, so you will need 2 tubs a month.
Large Dogs (over 35 kg): 3 chews daily, meaning 3 tubs a month will be needed.
As you can see, larger dog breeds will require more chews daily, and this can be a factor to consider when choosing the right probiotic option for your furry friend.
PetLab Co. Probiotic Support Chews will work out more expensive than a powder such as Pooch & Mutt Bionic Biotic for larger dogs.
Our Verdict - We recommend PetLab Co. Probiotic Support Chews as a best-selling option for fussy dogs and particularly for small breeds |
Form : Chews
Quantity: Chews - 30
Reasons to Buy
+ Over 2 million CFU's
+ Very palatable
+ No fuss option
+ Best-seller
Reasons to Avoid
- Can be pricey for large breed dogs
Buying Options
Save up to 40% OFF PetLab Co.
Click here - No Discount Code needed
3. Best Probiotic Range
Buddy & Lola
Buddy & Lola offer a wide range of health and wellness supplements for dogs aimed at some of the more common health concerns including joint mobility, digestive issues, dental health, anxiety and allergies.
Their best-selling product is Super Tummy Daily which is adored by dog-lovers and receives rave reviews.
Available as a powder to sprinkle over food or alternatively as a daily chew. We love that Buddy & Lola provide an option so if you have a super fussy dog, you can chose the form that you think will be most palatable.
Super Tummy combines beneficial bacteria, digestive enzymes, prebiotics and probiotics in the optimal blend to heal your dog's digestive system and to maintain a healthy, balanced gut microbiome.
Regular use will help to:
⭐️ Boost beneficial gut bacteria
⭐️ Supports healthy ears & paws
⭐️ Maintain firm, healthy stools
⭐️ Support digestive health
In testing, the chews went down a treat ! They are plant based which is a great choice if you have a dog with sensitivities, but cleverly they are crafted with the alluring aroma of bacon, which was a massive hit.
Price-wise, the chews work out slightly cheaper than the powder, particularly if you have a large dog.
The third Buddy & Lola product we want to slip into this review is one for your dog First Aid kit.
Of course, the first thing to be said about Super Tummy Instant is that it's not a probiotic, Super Tummy Instant is a supercharged, veterinary-strength poop support for those times where you need instant results.
All dogs suffer with diarrhoea and upset tummies from time to time and Super Tummy Instant (as the name suggests) offers a short term solution which can then be followed up with their probiotic Super Tummy Daily on an ongoing basis.
For a full list of active ingredients in all their products and how they can help your dog, take a look at the Buddy & Lola website.
If you're interested in exploring more, why not take a look at our review - Buddy & Lola's Dog Supplements Review : Nourish Your Dog's Wellbeing
Our Verdict - With all-natural nutrients, approved by vets, a 30 day no fuss money-back guarantee, free delivery with orders over £30 plus a great value subscribe & save option including a free supplement storage tin, (take a breath) Buddy & Lola are definitely worth a closer look. |
Form : Powder or Chews
Quantity: Powder - 120g | Chews - 60 (both will last a 10-18kg dog a month)
Reasons to Buy
+ Natural ingredients
+ Choice of powder or chews
+ Can be used in conjunction with Super Tummy Instant
Reasons to Avoid
- Exceptionally picky dogs may not like the chalky texture of the powder
Buying Options
For 15% OFF the entire Buddy & Lola range (first time purchases only)
enter SMARTBARK15 at checkout
4. Best Probiotic Bundle
Pets Purest
At Smart Bark, we're big fans of the recently rebranded Pets Purest products. Their extensive range of products are formulated using completely natural, hypoallergenic ingredients so are perfect for dogs with allergies.
You won't find additives, fillers or anything dodgy in their products.
Their natural Prebiotic & Probiotic Powder is 100% natural (wheat, grain and gluten free) and is formulated to help keep the balance of good bacteria within your dog's gut.
Regular use will help to:
⭐️ Reduce the risk of constipation
⭐️ Avoid irritating anal gland issues
⭐️ Strengthen your pet’s immune system
It contains micro-pearled thermally protected yeast to create the best environment for the good bacteria to thrive and help maintain optimal gut health.
When used in combination with their Tummy Settler and Digestion Aid functional treats, it offers a comprehensive approach to fortifying your dog's digestion.
Better still, Pets Purest offer all three products together in a money-saving Digestive Bundle.
It's worth mentioning that this is a great solution for multi-pet households as all three products are safe for use with both dogs and cats.
Our Verdict - We are big fans of Pets Purest money-saving bundles and their 'Go With Your Gut' Bundle offers both short and long term probiotic solutions for your dog. |
Form : Powder
Quantity: 200g (lasts 10-25kg dog a month)
Reasons to Buy
+ Natural ingredients
+ Easy to add to current food
+ Available in a money-saving bundle
Reasons to Avoid
- Powder trickier to add to dry dog food
Buying Options
Pets Purest are offering 10% OFF their entire range.
Enter discount code WELCOME10 at checkout
5. Best Probiotic Tablets
YuMOVE
The UK’s no.1 veterinary joint supplement brand YuMOVE have been researching supplements for more than 15 years. Their popular probiotic - Digestive Care is made specifically for dogs.
YuMOVE Digestive Care is a daily supplement tablet containing a variety of prebiotics and probiotic bacteria specifically developed to support your dog's digestive health.
It's specifically formulated for dogs with sensitive tummies to -
⭐️ Support digestive health
⭐️ Maintain firm stools
⭐️ Reduce excessive wind
Formulated with their ActivBio™ complex, the active ingredients work together to maintain a healthy natural balance in your dog's digestive system to keep their tummies on track.
It also contains added probiotic bacterial strain Enterococcus faecium. This has been shown to alleviate symptoms of intestinal inflammation in human clinical trials and animal feed supplementation studies.
In tablet form, you can add it to your dog's food or it can be taken by hand. If you struggle with a picky eater then the tablet can be crushed over their food. The tablets are available in 120's or 300's.
It's worth noting that YuMOVE offer a 6 week money back guarantee with all their supplements.
Our Verdict - YuMOVE are the largest company to feature in our review and as a global leader in pet health care they support over 2 million dogs ever year. Their Digestive Care tablets are a very good value probiotic, so if your dog is happy to eat tablets, then YuMOVE could be the option for you. |
Form : Tablet
Quantity: 120 or 300 count (11-25kg dog 2 tablets daily)
Reasons to Buy
+ UK’s no.1 joint supplement brand
+ Designed specifically for dogs
+ Money back guarantee
Reasons to Avoid
- Tablet form not ideal for picky dogs
Buying Options
Subscribe to save 50% OFF your first 2 months
using discount code SAVENOW
Our Verdict
The Bottom Line (see what we did there), is that if your dog suffers with gut or butt troubles, a probiotic supplement can certainly help tackle those digestive difficulties.
All five of the probiotics we feature, are from top quality brands, formulated with the finest ingredients and offer excellent value for money.
Pooch & Mutt, Buddy & Lola, Pets Purest and YuMOVE all offer a money-back guarantee, making them a very low risk option.
If you have a fussy dog we would recommend taking a closer look at the soft chews offered by PetLab Co. or Buddy & Lola.
FAQ's
Is there anything I should look out for when I first add a probiotic to my dog's diet?
Like any dietary change, adding a probiotic supplement can occasionally cause a mild digestive upset. If necessary, stop the supplement, let the digestive system settle down and reintroduce again, starting at a very low amount and gradually building up to the label amount.
Is yogurt a prebiotic for dogs?
Yogurt is high in both calcium and protein. It also can act as a probiotic, which can be good for your dog's digestive system. If you feed your dog yogurt, we'd suggest choosing one which is plain and free of any added sweeteners.
How long does it take for prebiotics to work in dogs?
Probiotics and prebiotics won't be an overnight cure for your dog's digestive problems. To rebuild the gut flora, the benefits of a balanced gut microbiome will take time. The products featured in our article will take several days to a couple of weeks of daily use before you can gauge if they're helping your dog.
Almost all our products are sent to us by the companies involved and almost always as a result of our request. We only review the products we think are worth reviewing.
Thank you for reading our article and we hope you've found a dog probiotic to suit your dog and you in our round up of the Best Probiotic Supplements for Dogs 2024
