Probiotics & Diarrhea in Dogs

Diarrhea is common in dogs and can be caused by a number of factors. Some dogs may have a difficult time recovering and benefit from taking probiotics.

Types

Probiotics are supplements containing active, naturally occurring bacteria. There are many different types of probiotics, including acidophilus, the most commonly known probiotic. Probiotics are available in liquid, pill or powder form.

Benefits

Diarrhea can destroy the naturally occurring, or "good" bacteria. Probiotics help to promote the regrowth of the "good" bacteria in the dog's intestinal tract. Probiotics are particularly helpful when taken with antibiotics, which combat both good and bad bacteria simultaneously.

Time Frame

Probiotics can be used as a supplement for a period of time specified by your vet; depending on the type and dosage, probiotics may or may not be appropriate for permanent daily use.

Prevention

Probiotics also can be used to prevent diarrhea caused by stress, such as overnight boarding, lengthy car trips or visits to the vet.

Considerations

When the cause of the diarrhea is more serious, such as intestinal parasites or an intestinal disorder, additional treatment may be necessary. Probiotics may help the symptoms but will not help the causes of more serious illnesses.

References

• Pet Care Naturally: Pet Diarrhea -- Using Natural Therapies

Resources

• Flint River Ranch: Probiotics and Pet Health