Probiotics are nutrients that every living organism, from humans to young puppies, needs. But what are probiotics, and can they stop dog pee from destroying green grass?
From preventing digestive disorders to keeping grass green, there are plenty of benefits of probiotics for dogs. Let’s break down what probiotics are and the amazing things they can do for your dog.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts. While it may sound odd to want live bacteria in your body, probiotics are very good for living organisms. In fact, “probiotic” actually means “life promoting.” These “good” bacteria ensure optimal gut health and improve digestion. Probiotics also balance “good” and “bad” bacteria in the body so everything can function as it should.
Most probiotics target nerves that control gut movement and issues like diarrhea. The bacteria also support other areas of the body by promoting better skin, urinary, and oral health.
Probiotics for Doggy Digestion
There are various types of dog probiotics, with each one serving a different purpose. Most dog probiotics are located in the digestive tract. They maintain proper gut balance and ensure fast and smooth digestion in dogs.
Digestive disorders are not uncommon in canines. Most dog health issues arise from a lack of good bacteria and an increase in bad bacteria. These types of digestive disorders stem from:
- Bacterial imbalances
- Stress and separation anxiety
- Poor diet or changes in diet
- Medications (especially antibiotics and long-term steroids)
- Old age
- Parasites
- Allergies
The bacteria in probiotics aid a dog’s digestion process. The good bacteria eliminate bad bacteria while also making it harder for bad bacteria to re-enter the dog’s gut. They establish a healthy balance to improve overall gut health. Probiotics help Fido digest his dinner, increase nutrient absorption, and give the immune system a boost.
How Do Probiotics Affect Dog Pee?
Probiotics regulate bowel movements in dogs by enabling a smooth digestion process. Bifidobacterium animalis probiotics help dogs recover from diarrhea faster. Lactobacillus acidophilu improves the frequency and consistency of dog stool. Lactobacillus rhamnosus probiotics prevent diarrhea.
But probiotic benefits do not stop at dog bowel movements. Probiotics in dogs help digestion, which affects a dog’s urinary tract. A well-balanced digestive tract reduces nitrogen levels in dog pee.
Why is nitrogen a bad thing in dog urine? Nitrogen is potent. It’s the ingredient that gives dog urine its yellow color and unmistakable odor. Nitrogen is also what is killing your green grass when Fido lifts his leg. While nitrogen can fertilize grass to promote a plush-looking lawn, too much nitrogen is a bad thing. When a dog continuously urinates over the same patches of grass, the nitrogen strips away the grass’s bright green color and destroys a lawn.
But the better your dog’s digestive health, the less potent his urine will be. Probiotics naturally encourage regular bowel movements and balance nitrogen in urine. By increasing the number of probiotics your dog consumes, you can ensure healthy digestion and prevent brown patches on your lawn.
How to Give Your Dog Probiotics
Dogs can increase their probiotic intake through probiotic supplements and eating certain types of foods.
Yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables naturally possess live cultures that benefit dogs. Most of these foods are safe for canines to consume as long as they are eaten in moderation. Make sure all ingredients are unsweetened and do not contain additives or xylitol.
When giving your dog natural probiotics, limit quantities by following these ranges:
- Small dogs under 20 pounds: 1 teaspoon per day
- Medium dogs between 20 and 40 pounds: 2 teaspoons per day
- Large dog breeds over 50 pounds: 3 teaspoons per day
You can mix probiotic foods into your dog’s dinner or feed it to them directly.
Probiotic supplements for dogs are also available. They come as chews, capsules, powders, and dog foods. Most probiotic supplements are served in individual serving sizes to ensure the live bacteria stay in-tact. Water, air, and certain temperature fluctuations can damage the bacteria’s viability. When storing probiotic supplements, keep them in a cool and dark place so the probiotics continue to survive. Keep an eye on the ingredient list and best-before stamps to ensure you are feeding your pooch the best dog probiotics.
Do Probiotics Have Side Effects?
Although rare, some dogs react negatively to probiotics. Side effects usually cause digestive discomfort, such as:
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Gassiness
- Diarrhea
- Constipation and dingleberries
Changes in appetite and refusing to eat are also signs your dog is not acclimating to the new probiotics.
To prevent problems, gradually introduce probiotic foods and supplements into your dog’s diet. Start with half of a suggested serving or giving probiotics every other day. Wait two to four weeks. If you do not see any negative side effects, increase the frequency or dosage.
Probiotics for Dogs: Protecting Your Lawn & Keeping Grass Green
Probiotics for dogs play a key role in the digestion process. The live cultures balance gut health, prevent digestive disorders and ensure smooth bowel movements. The bacteria also regulate nitrogen levels in dog urine to prevent dog pee from killing grass.
If you are on the hunt for the best dog probiotics to regulate your dog’s gut health, you are in the right spot. Pet Honesty’s Keep Grass Green Chews are soft, chewable probiotic treats designed to boost doggy digestion. The chews are rich in healthy probiotics to balance nitrogen levels and protect your grass from Fido’s steady stream.
What are you waiting for? Order your pack and let the probiotics naturally enhance Fido’s digestive health.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/probiotics-for-dogs/
https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/health/digestion/the-benefits-of-probiotics-for-your-dog/
