Probiotics for Dogs

Probiotics is the term used to refer living microorganisms generally found in the bowel or intestine that have beneficial effect on the health of the host. The literal meaning of probiotics is 'supporting life'. Probiotics refer to dietary supplements, that contain these useful microorganisms, and help in maintaining a healthy intestine. The most common probiotic is lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Almost all animals contain some useful bacteria in the intestine that helps to carry out intestinal functions.

Probiotics and Dogs
Dogs also need probiotics to ensure the smooth operation of intestinal functions, and checking the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses. They generally contain the required amounts of probiotics like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, which help in promoting their overall growth and development.

In certain situations, the natural population of these probiotics can reduce in your pet's body. One such situation is the intake of antibiotics, which destroy all kinds of microbes including the useful ones. The proportion of beneficial bacteria in the intestine can also be reduced due to poor intake of food. Besides, some harmful pathogens like virus or bacteria can also be responsible for decreasing the population of useful intestinal bacteria.

Benefits of Probiotics
Probiotics are required in the body of dogs to perform a number of functions. They play an important role in body's defense mechanism. Probiotics strengthens the immune system to fight against harmful bacteria and other microorganisms that enter the body. Studies have revealed that they promote the production of antibody producing plasma cells and lymphocytes, thereby helping the immune system in providing protection against pathogens. Probiotics can produce natural antibiotics, and are also found to be effective in preventing the growth of some harmful bacteria and pathogens like, E. coli and salmonella.

Another important function of probiotics is facilitating the intestinal functions. They help in the proper digestion of food and are very useful in preventing any kind of disorders associated with intestine. They are effective in treating diarrhea, and other disorders like bloating, indigestion, gas, etc. Sometimes, these intestinal troubles can also be the cause of many other health problems in dogs like, allergies, itchy skin, ear infection, etc. By promoting the functions of the intestine, probiotics can alleviate these disorders.

They are also found to exhibit antioxidant properties and reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood. They facilitate the absorption of some minerals, crucial for carrying out life sustaining processes. Probiotics can also assist in the production of vitamin B and folic acid. They are also effective in reducing inflammation of the intestine.

Yogurt products, fermented milk, miso and cheese are some foods that contain probiotics. Usually, yogurt can be mixed with dog foods, or can be given as probiotic supplement. Nowadays, many probiotic supplements are available in the market, and they can be added with the food of your dogs.

Probiotics have been a part of health-promoting food for a very long time, and they can play a significant role in maintaining your pet's growth and development. In addition to nutritious food, dogs also need probiotics, but adequate care should be taken while giving them the probiotic supplements. Probiotics given in required amounts, could be instrumental in improving dogs health and vigor by aiding digestion and absorption of essential nutrients.