Just like humans, dogs need a healthy gut to support their overall well-being. Probiotics, also known as “good bacteria,” are essential in maintaining your dog’s digestive health. While commercial probiotics are readily available, many dog owners are now turning to homemade probiotics for dogs to avoid artificial ingredients, gain more control over their pet’s diet, and save money. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of homemade probiotics, provide step-by-step instructions to make them, and dive into how these gut-friendly bacteria can improve your dog’s overall health.
How to Make Homemade Probiotics for Dogs
Creating homemade probiotics for dogs is simpler than you might think, and there are several methods you can try. In this section, we’ll walk you through different probiotic-rich recipes, from fermented vegetables to kefir and yogurt, and how to properly give them to your dog.
Fermented Vegetables for Dogs
Fermented vegetables are a fantastic source of probiotics and enzymes that promote gut health. This easy, homemade recipe will provide your dog with natural probiotics that can improve digestion and immunity.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fermented Vegetables for Dogs
Ingredients:
- 2-3 cups of dog-safe vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, cabbage)
- 1 tablespoon of sea salt (non-iodized)
- Water (filtered or boiled and cooled)
Instructions:
- Chop the vegetables: Finely chop or shred your choice of vegetables. Carrots, cucumbers, and cabbage are great options due to their high fiber content and nutritional benefits. Avoid onions and garlic, as they are toxic to dogs.
- Prepare the brine: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of sea salt into 4 cups of water. This will be your brine solution.
- Submerge the vegetables: Place the chopped vegetables into a glass jar or fermentation crock and pour the brine over them, ensuring all the vegetables are fully submerged. If needed, place a weight on top to keep the veggies under the brine.
- Seal and ferment: Seal the jar with a loose-fitting lid or cloth. Leave it in a cool, dark place to ferment for about 1-2 weeks. During this time, probiotics and beneficial bacteria will develop.
- Check regularly: Open the jar every few days to release built-up gases, and ensure the vegetables remain submerged in the brine.
Once fermented, store the vegetables in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay good for several months.
Best Vegetables to Use
- Carrots: High in fiber, great for digestive health.
- Cucumbers: Refreshing and hydrating, full of antioxidants.
- Cabbage: A natural source of vitamins C and K, and beneficial for gut health.
How Much to Give Based on Dog Size
- Small dogs: 1 teaspoon daily.
- Medium dogs: 1 tablespoon daily.
- Large dogs: 2-3 tablespoons daily.
Introduce the fermented vegetables slowly into your dog’s diet to prevent digestive upset. Monitor for any signs of intolerance.
Kefir
Kefir is a fermented beverage loaded with probiotics and has even more beneficial bacteria than yogurt. Making kefir at home is easy and cost-effective, and it can be a wonderful addition to your dog’s diet.
How to Make Kefir at Home
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons of kefir grains (available online or at health food stores)
- 2-4 cups of milk (for milk kefir) or sugar water (for water kefir)
Instructions:
- Add kefir grains: Place kefir grains into a clean glass jar.
- Pour in liquid: For milk kefir, use cow’s milk, goat’s milk, or a lactose-free option like coconut milk. For water kefir, use sugar water (dissolve 1/4 cup of sugar in 4 cups of water).
- Ferment: Cover the jar loosely with a cloth and leave it to ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours. Stir occasionally. Once it thickens (for milk kefir) or becomes slightly fizzy (for water kefir), it’s ready.
- Strain and serve: Strain the kefir grains out, and store the liquid in the fridge.
Benefits of Kefir for Dogs
- Rich in Lactobacillus and other probiotic strains that improve digestion.
- Aids in alleviating diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues.
- Helps boost the immune system, especially after antibiotic use.
Difference Between Water Kefir and Milk Kefir
- Milk kefir contains a higher concentration of probiotics and nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, but may not be suitable for dogs with dairy sensitivities.
- Water kefir is a non-dairy alternative that is lower in probiotics but still effective for dogs with lactose intolerance.
For most dogs, start with 1-2 teaspoons per day, gradually increasing to a few tablespoons based on your dog’s size and tolerance.
Bone Broth with Probiotic Additions
Bone broth is not only a nutritious supplement for dogs, but you can also enhance its benefits by adding probiotics after cooking. It’s especially good for older dogs or those with digestive issues.
Recipe for Homemade Bone Broth
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of raw bones (chicken, beef, or lamb)
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- Water to cover bones
Instructions:
- Prepare the broth: Place the bones in a slow cooker, cover them with water, and add the apple cider vinegar (this helps extract the nutrients).
- Cook: Cook on low for 24-48 hours. The longer you cook, the more nutrients will be extracted.
- Cool and strain: Let the broth cool, then strain out the bones (never give cooked bones to dogs).
- Store: Store the broth in the fridge, or freeze in portions for future use.
Adding Probiotics to Broth (Post-Cooking)
To add probiotics, wait until the bone broth has cooled to room temperature, and stir in:
- Kefir or yogurt: 1-2 tablespoons for larger batches of broth.
- Fermented vegetables: Mix in a teaspoon of chopped fermented vegetables for added probiotics.
Benefits of Bone Broth with Probiotics
- Nourishes joints and cartilage due to the collagen and gelatin in the broth.
- Enhances digestion and gut health when combined with probiotics.
- Hydrates and supports dogs recovering from illness or surgery.
Serve 2-4 tablespoons of probiotic bone broth as a meal topper or snack for your dog.
Yogurt and Cottage Cheese
Yogurt and cottage cheese can serve as simple, protein-rich probiotic sources for dogs. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind, especially concerning lactose intolerance.
Can Dogs Have Dairy-Based Probiotics?
Yes, dogs can consume dairy-based probiotics like yogurt and cottage cheese as long as they are lactose-tolerant. However, it’s important to choose plain, unsweetened versions that don’t contain harmful additives like sugar or artificial sweeteners (e.g., xylitol, which is toxic to dogs).
Making Dog-Safe Yogurt at Home
Ingredients:
- 1 quart of milk (dairy or lactose-free)
- 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt starter or plain store-bought yogurt with live cultures
Instructions:
- Heat the milk: Slowly heat the milk to 180°F, then allow it to cool to about 110°F.
- Add the starter: Mix in the yogurt starter or a few spoonfuls of plain yogurt.
- Incubate: Pour the mixture into a jar and keep it in a warm place (around 110°F) for 8-12 hours. The longer it ferments, the tangier it will be.
- Store: Once thickened, refrigerate and serve small amounts to your dog.
Lactose Intolerance Considerations
If your dog is lactose intolerant, opt for lactose-free yogurt or use non-dairy milk like coconut milk to make dog-friendly yogurt. Signs of lactose intolerance include diarrhea, gas, and bloating after consuming dairy products.
How Much to Give:
- Small dogs: 1 teaspoon daily.
- Medium dogs: 1 tablespoon daily.
- Large dogs: 2 tablespoons daily.
Why Homemade Probiotics for Dogs?
While store-bought probiotics for dogs can be convenient, there are numerous reasons why many pet owners prefer to make their own at home. Here are some key advantages:
1. Control Over Ingredients
By making homemade probiotics for dogs, you can carefully select the ingredients that go into your dog’s probiotics. This allows you to avoid preservatives, artificial additives, or unwanted ingredients that may be present in commercial products.
2. Customizable to Your Dog’s Needs
Every dog is different. Some may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. With homemade probiotics, you can tailor the recipe to suit your dog’s unique health needs. For example, dogs with dairy intolerance can benefit from non-dairy options like fermented vegetables or water kefir.
3. Cost-Effective
Store-bought probiotics can be expensive, especially when used long-term. Making your own probiotics at home is a more cost-effective solution, especially if you’re already incorporating fresh ingredients into your dog’s diet.
4. Fresh and Potent
Homemade probiotics are fresh and often more potent than commercial products. Many store-bought probiotics lose their potency over time due to the long shelf life and storage conditions. When you make probiotics at home, you know exactly how fresh they are.
5. Sustainability
If you’re passionate about sustainability, homemade probiotics are a great way to minimize packaging waste. By reusing jars and buying ingredients in bulk, you can significantly reduce your environmental footprint.
Real-Life Case Study: Homemade vs. Store-Bought Probiotics
A study conducted by the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine compared the effectiveness of homemade probiotics to commercially available ones. It found that homemade probiotic foods, like kefir and fermented vegetables, provided more diverse strains of beneficial bacteria than the single-strain commercial alternatives. This diversity helps dogs achieve better overall gut health.
Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs
Incorporating probiotics into your dog’s diet, whether through homemade or store-bought options, can have far-reaching health benefits. Below, we explore the multiple ways probiotics contribute to a dog’s well-being.
1. Improved Digestion and Nutrient Absorption
The primary benefit of probiotics for dogs is improved digestion. Probiotics help break down food, making it easier for your dog to absorb essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins. This can lead to better energy levels, healthier skin, and a shinier coat.
For example, dogs suffering from malabsorption syndrome—a condition where the body can’t absorb nutrients effectively—can experience dramatic improvements in their overall health when probiotics are introduced. Probiotics help regulate the gut environment, which optimizes digestion and absorption.
2. Strengthened Immune System
Did you know that up to 70% of your dog’s immune system is located in the gut? A healthy gut microbiome plays a key role in strengthening the immune system, protecting against harmful pathogens, and reducing the risk of infections. Dogs with a healthy balance of gut bacteria are less prone to illnesses, particularly gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease.
In fact, a study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs who regularly consumed probiotics had a higher count of white blood cells—a sign of a robust immune response. This means that with regular probiotic use, your dog is better equipped to fight off infections.
3. Prevention and Treatment of Digestive Issues
Probiotics are widely recognized for their ability to treat and prevent various digestive disorders, including:
- Diarrhea: Particularly effective after antibiotic treatments, which often disrupt gut flora.
- Constipation: Probiotics help regulate bowel movements by balancing gut bacteria.
- Gas and Bloating: Certain strains of probiotics reduce excessive gas production in the intestines, helping dogs feel more comfortable.
For example, probiotics are often recommended during and after a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics kill off both harmful and beneficial bacteria, leading to imbalances in the gut. Administering probiotics can help restore the gut flora and minimize side effects like antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
4. Reduction in Allergy Symptoms
Probiotics can also play a significant role in reducing allergy symptoms in dogs. Allergies are often linked to inflammation in the gut, and probiotics help reduce this inflammation by balancing the bacteria in the digestive tract.
A 2015 study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research showed that dogs with chronic skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, had fewer flare-ups and less intense itching when they were regularly given probiotics. By strengthening the gut lining, probiotics help prevent allergens from leaking into the bloodstream, reducing overall allergic reactions.
5. Promoting Healthy Skin and Coat
As a side effect of better digestion and nutrient absorption, dogs often experience improvements in their skin and coat health after taking probiotics. Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins like biotin, and essential minerals like zinc are more effectively absorbed, leading to a shiny coat and healthier skin. This can be especially beneficial for dogs prone to dry, flaky skin or excessive shedding.
6. Supporting Mental Health and Behavior
The gut-brain connection is a fascinating area of study that shows how gut health can directly influence behavior and mood. When your dog’s gut is in balance, it can have a calming effect, reducing anxiety, hyperactivity, and even aggression.
In dogs with anxiety, probiotics help lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. This can result in more stable moods and better responses to stressful situations. Additionally, some studies suggest that probiotics can even support the production of serotonin—a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and happiness.
7. Weight Management
A healthy gut microbiome can also help with weight management. Some strains of probiotics, like Lactobacillus rhamnosus, are known to help maintain a healthy weight by regulating the way fats are absorbed in the intestines. For overweight dogs, probiotics can be a useful addition to a balanced diet and exercise routine, helping them achieve a healthier weight.
8. Recovery After Illness or Antibiotics
After illness or a course of antibiotics, your dog’s gut microbiome can become unbalanced. Antibiotics kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria, which can lead to digestive problems. Introducing probiotics post-illness or post-antibiotic treatment can help restore healthy gut bacteria and speed up recovery.
Quick Tip: If your dog has recently been on antibiotics, wait 2-3 hours after administering antibiotics before giving them probiotics. This prevents the antibiotics from killing the beneficial bacteria in the probiotic.
Summary Table: Benefits of Homemade Probiotics for Dogs
| Benefit | Description |
| Improved Digestion and Nutrient Absorption | Probiotics aid in breaking down food for better nutrient absorption. |
| Strengthened Immune System | Supports gut health, which is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system. |
| Prevention and Treatment of Digestive Issues | Helps with diarrhea, constipation, and gas, especially after antibiotic use. |
| Reduction in Allergy Symptoms | Reduces inflammation in the gut, helping alleviate allergy symptoms like itching and dermatitis. |
| Healthy Skin and Coat | Improved nutrient absorption leads to a shinier coat and healthier skin. |
| Supports Mental Health and Behavior | Probiotics balance the gut-brain axis, promoting better mood and reduced anxiety. |
| Weight Management | Helps regulate fat absorption and maintain a healthy weight in dogs. |
| Recovery After Illness or Antibiotics | Restores gut flora balance, speeding up recovery after illness or antibiotic treatments. |
Signs Your Dog Might Need Probiotics
Recognizing when your dog could benefit from homemade probiotics is essential to ensuring their long-term health and happiness. While probiotics can be a great supplement for maintaining overall wellness, there are certain signs that indicate your dog may specifically need them to address underlying issues.
1. Digestive Issues
Digestive problems are often the first and most noticeable sign that your dog might benefit from probiotics. Some common issues include:
- Chronic diarrhea or loose stools: If your dog frequently has diarrhea or irregular bowel movements, it may indicate an imbalance in their gut microbiome.
- Constipation: On the flip side, if your dog struggles with infrequent bowel movements or seems uncomfortable when defecating, probiotics can help regulate digestion.
- Gas and bloating: Excessive flatulence or a bloated abdomen could mean that your dog’s digestive system isn’t functioning properly. Probiotics can reduce gas production and promote better digestion.
In cases of digestBest Sources of Homemade Probiotics for Dogs
When it comes to creating homemade probiotics for dogs, there are several natural, dog-friendly options that can be easily incorporated into your pet’s diet. Below, we explore the best sources of homemade probiotics and how they can benefit your dog.
1. Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the simplest and most effective sources of probiotics for dogs. It contains live cultures of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, both of which support gut health and digestion. When choosing yogurt for your dog, it’s essential to look for plain, unsweetened yogurt that doesn’t contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners, particularly xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
How to Use:
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of plain yogurt to your dog’s food, depending on their size.
- You can also freeze yogurt in ice cube trays for a cool summer treat.
Benefits:
- Helps with digestive upset, particularly diarrhea.
- Strengthens the immune system.
- Promotes healthier skin and coat due to better nutrient absorption.
Note: While yogurt is safe for most dogs, some may have lactose intolerance. If your dog shows signs of digestive distress after consuming yogurt (e.g., gas or diarrhea), consider using non-dairy options like coconut milk yogurt or consult your vet.
2. Kefir
Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contains even more probiotics than yogurt. It is rich in strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium animalis, and Saccharomyces boulardii, which are excellent for gut health. Kefir is also lower in lactose than yogurt, making it more tolerable for dogs that are sensitive to dairy.
How to Use:
- Start by giving your dog a small amount (around 1 teaspoon for small dogs, 1 tablespoon for larger dogs), and gradually increase the amount.
- You can mix kefir into your dog’s food or serve it on its own.
Benefits:
- Contains a variety of beneficial bacteria and yeasts.
- Helps restore gut balance, especially after antibiotics.
- Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory for dogs with allergies or digestive issues.
3. Fermented Vegetables
Fermented vegetables, like sauerkraut and kimchi, are great sources of probiotics for dogs. However, be cautious when preparing or selecting fermented vegetables, as many store-bought versions contain added salt, spices, or onions, which can be harmful to dogs. It’s best to make your own fermented vegetables at home to ensure they are safe for your pet.
How to Use:
- Start with small amounts—about 1 teaspoon for small dogs and up to 1 tablespoon for larger dogs.
- Mix the fermented vegetables into their regular meals or serve as a standalone snack.
Benefits:
- Rich in fiber and vitamins, which aid digestion.
- Low in lactose, making them suitable for dogs with dairy sensitivities.
- Helps with detoxification by promoting better digestion and elimination of waste.
Recipe for Dog-Safe Fermented Vegetables:
- Use carrots, cabbage, or cucumbers.
- Avoid onions, garlic, and excessive salt.
- Allow the vegetables to ferment naturally for 1-2 weeks before serving.
4. Bone Broth with Probiotics
Bone broth is not only rich in collagen and nutrients that support joint health, but it can also be fortified with probiotics by adding fermented ingredients like miso or kefir at the end of cooking. Bone broth is easy to digest and can be an excellent option for older dogs or those recovering from illness.
How to Use:
- Serve 1-2 tablespoons of probiotic-fortified bone broth as a topper for your dog’s meals.
- You can freeze bone broth into cubes for a hydrating treat.
Benefits:
- Supports gut health while also promoting joint, skin, and coat health.
- Hydrates your dog, especially during hot weather.
- Aids in recovery from digestive upset or illness.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar (With “The Mother”)
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) with the “mother”—the cloudy substance made of enzymes and beneficial bacteria—is another good source of probiotics for dogs. It helps regulate the digestive system and can prevent overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
How to Use:
- Add a small amount (1/4 teaspoon for small dogs, 1/2 teaspoon for medium dogs, 1 teaspoon for large dogs) to your dog’s water or food.
- Gradually introduce ACV to avoid any stomach upset.
Benefits:
- Balances the pH of the digestive system.
- Helps with mild stomach upset.
- Can support healthy skin and reduce itching when used both internally and topically (diluted in water).
Table: Best Homemade Probiotics for Dogs
| Source | Probiotic Strains | Benefits |
| Yogurt | Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium | Supports digestion, immune system, and skin health. |
| Kefir | Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium | Rich in probiotic strains, good for dogs with dairy sensitivities. |
| Fermented Vegetables | Lactic acid bacteria | High in fiber, vitamins, and probiotics. Helps with detoxification and digestion. |
| Bone Broth with Probiotics | Varies (depends on added probiotic ingredients) | Nourishes gut, promotes joint health, and aids recovery from illness. |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | Acetobacter, lactic acid bacteria | Balances gut pH and prevents harmful bacteria overgrowth. |
ive distress, introducing homemade probiotics for dogs can help balance the bacteria in their gut, allowing for smoother digestion and more regular bowel movements.
2. Skin Conditions and Allergies
Probiotics play a critical role in reducing inflammation, which is often a driving factor behind allergic reactions. If your dog is constantly scratching, biting, or licking their skin due to allergies or if they suffer from recurring hot spots, probiotics may help alleviate these symptoms by calming the inflammatory response.
Research has shown that probiotics can also improve skin barrier function, making your dog’s skin more resistant to external irritants and allergens. For example, dogs with chronic skin conditions like atopic dermatitis can experience fewer flare-ups when probiotics are introduced into their diet.
3. Changes in Behavior or Lethargy
Did you know that your dog’s gut health is linked to their behavior? The gut-brain connection means that an unbalanced gut microbiome can affect your dog’s mood and overall energy levels. Symptoms like sudden lethargy, anxiety, or even aggression may be linked to gut health.
Probiotics help regulate the production of neurotransmitters, like serotonin, which influence mood. If your dog is displaying signs of stress or has become more lethargic than usual, probiotics could play a role in restoring their energy and mental balance.
4. Chronic Infections
If your dog suffers from recurring infections, such as ear infections or urinary tract infections (UTIs), probiotics might help. Chronic infections often indicate a weakened immune system, and because much of your dog’s immunity is tied to their gut, probiotics can be effective in bolstering their body’s defenses.
For instance, Enterococcus faecium, a specific strain of probiotic, has been shown to help with the recurrence of UTIs by improving the bacterial balance in the intestines and preventing the spread of harmful bacteria.
5. Recovery After Antibiotics or Illness
Antibiotics, while necessary for treating bacterial infections, can wipe out both harmful and beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut. This leaves your dog vulnerable to digestive issues, including diarrhea and poor nutrient absorption. If your dog has recently been on antibiotics, probiotics can help restore the balance of good bacteria in their gut.
Introducing probiotics during and after a course of antibiotics ensures that the gut recovers quickly, minimizing the potential side effects of the medication. Many vets recommend giving probiotics alongside antibiotics to reduce the risk of digestive upset.
Table: Common Signs Your Dog Needs Probiotics
| Symptom | How Probiotics Help |
| Chronic diarrhea or loose stools | Probiotics help restore gut balance, leading to firmer and more regular bowel movements. |
| Constipation | Probiotics regulate digestion and promote healthy bowel movements. |
| Gas and bloating | Probiotics reduce excessive gas production and improve overall digestion. |
| Itchy skin and allergies | Probiotics calm inflammation, reducing itching and allergic reactions. |
| Lethargy or behavior changes | Probiotics support the gut-brain axis, promoting better mood and more consistent energy. |
| Recurring infections | Probiotics strengthen the immune system, helping to prevent infections like UTIs or ear infections. |
| Recovery after antibiotics | Probiotics replenish good bacteria lost during antibiotic treatment, speeding up recovery. |