Finding the Best Probiotic Brand for Dogs
Probiotics can help dogs with gurgling stomachs, noxious gas, mucus-filled stools, chronic antibiotic or steroid use, and even pesky skin issues, especially yeast infections.
Now, I’ll be upfront. There’s a 50 percent chance your dog will benefit immediately once live probiotics are added to his diet–they’re the lucky ones. For the remaining 50 percent, it may take a couple of weeks to notice improved results. Usually, the other 50 percent have had long-term issues, which takes longer to bounce back, so be patient.
With all the probiotic brands, it’s tough finding one that works for our dogs. To make it easier on you, I’m going to tell you my favorite brand, which is recommended by many holistic veterinarians and has worked wonderfully for a sensitive tummy Rottweiler and Miniature Bull Terrier with chronic skin issues.
Proviable-DC Digestive Health
When frantically trying to manage our Miniature Bull Terrier Stella’s persistent yeast-invaded ear infections, I felt helpless. We could hold it back, but not kill it. When her ear infections were really bad, she developed discoloration around her feet and genital area, which caused frequent licking and itchy and was impossible to eliminate. Yes, I was pulling my hair out while trying to keep her fur from falling out.
We changed her to a raw diet, which helped, but yeast kept multiplying, albeit at a slower rate. It still remained. After an exam with a holistic veterinarian, she recommended Proviable-DC Digestive Health capsules. Wow, the difference within two weeks was amazing. She glowed with improved health. It’s been over two years since her last ear infection (knock on wood!).
RELATED: Understanding Dog Nutrition
Paste and Capsules
Proviable-DC contains seven different strains of probiotics and two strains of prebiotics tucked into a small capsule. Now, this product is available in a paste form, but taking it from me, it’s incredibly hard to hide in food due to its taste and consistency. Pills are much easier. If your dog refuses to take meds, check out this article and video for tips. Even though my dogs range in size and weight, they both take one capsule daily with their morning meals.
Long-Term Probiotic Use
Most supplements can safely be used long-term, but always check with your veterinarian first. Proviable-DC is safe for long-term use. However, when I decide to play it safe and give my dog a break from this probiotic for a few weeks, irritable tummy and pesky skin issues pop up. Plus, more is not necessarily better–make sure to follow the recommended dose.
Patience and daily dosing with the right probiotic is key!
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