A veterinarian can help determine if a dog should take probiotics.
The pros and cons of probiotics for dogs are similar to probiotic supplements for humans. Canine probiotics can help regulate a dog’s intestinal and digestive health, as well as promote a healthier coat and skin and increase energy. Probiotics can even help with certain yeast infections and rashes that your dog may experience. Often, a dog’s symptoms get worse before they start to get better, and he may even develop symptoms that he didn’t have before he started taking the supplements. While probiotics generally don’t require a prescription, it’s always safer to consult a veterinarian to rule out any serious health issues before beginning a probiotic regimen.
Dog owners can purchase probiotic supplements at most pet stores.
Some benefits of probiotics for dogs are similar to those of probiotics for humans, such as improving gut health and digestive functions. Probiotics can help regulate constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, and bloating. Other benefits include healthier skin and coat, and better breath. Canine probiotics can also help if the dog is having trouble eliminating waste or is experiencing a lack of energy. A veterinarian may recommend probiotics if a dog is having problems with yeast overgrowth or certain rashes.
While they may have some side effects, probiotic supplements are generally not dangerous. These side effects can include digestive discomfort such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and gas. The dog’s original symptoms may worsen until his body adjusts to the probiotics. Also, it can be difficult for the owner to administer probiotics, especially if they are in pill form. Initially, the owner may go through a period of trial and error before finding the right probiotics for their dog and starting to see results.
Probiotic supplements of any kind generally don’t require a prescription, and that includes pet probiotics. If the dog owner wants to try canine probiotics just to enjoy the health benefits, he can usually buy them over the counter at any pet store or through their website or catalog. If the owner wants to try probiotics for dogs to cure a specific health problem, she can consult a veterinarian. For example, canine probiotics can help treat a dog’s unhealthy digestive tract, but only a veterinarian can tell whether or not there is a serious underlying health issue causing the digestive problem in the first place. It is in the dog’s best interest for his owner to take him to the vet for a full exam before picking up the probiotics.
It is important that the owner treat dog probiotics as they would any type of supplement. For example, using and storing canine probiotics exactly as directed can help maximize their efficacy and safety. If symptoms do not improve after allotted time period, owner should discontinue use. If symptoms persist or worsen after stopping use, the owner should make an appointment with the dog’s veterinarian. The vet can then diagnose the problem, if he hasn’t already, and choose another course of treatment.