Homemade Probiotics For Dogs

Probiotics are good bacteria that can help improve your dog’s digestive system and health.

Commercial probiotics are available, but making homemade probiotics for dogs is also an option. Here’s a simple guide to making homemade probiotics for your dogs.

Basic Review Probiotics for Dogs

Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeasts, that offer health benefits when consumed adequately. In simple terms, probiotics are good bacteria that can help balance the gut flora in dogs, promoting better digestion and overall well-being.

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Foods that Contain Probiotics & Prebiotics

Here is a list of some foods that contain probiotics and prebiotics

Foods with Probiotics

Probiotics are good bacteria that help your dog’s gut. Here are some foods that have them:

  1. Yoghurt: Made from milk with friendly bacteria.
  2. Kefir: A drink made from fermented milk, similar to yoghurt.
  3. Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage.
  4. Kimchi: Spicy fermented vegetables, often cabbage.
  5. Miso: A paste made from fermented soybeans, used in Japanese cooking.
  6. Tempeh: A firm, nutty product made from fermented soybeans.
  7. Kombucha: Fermented tea.
  8. Pickles: Only the ones naturally fermented without vinegar.
  9. Natto: Fermented soybeans from Japan.
  10. Certain Cheeses: Some aged cheeses like Gouda, cheddar, and Swiss.

Foods with Prebiotics

Prebiotics are fibres that feed the good bacteria in your gut. Here are some foods that have them:

  1. Chicory Root: Often used in coffee substitutes.
  2. Jerusalem Artichokes: Also called sunchokes.
  3. Garlic: Common in cooking.
  4. Onions: Used in many dishes.
  5. Leeks: Similar to onions and garlic.
  6. Asparagus: A green vegetable.
  7. Bananas: Especially when they are slightly green.
  8. Barley: A grain used in soups and stews.
  9. Oats: Common in breakfast foods.
  10. Apples: A popular fruit.
  11. Flaxseeds: Small seeds are often added to food.
  12. Seaweed: Used in sushi and other dishes.

Combining Probiotics and Prebiotics

To help your dog have a healthy gut, it’s good to allow it to eat both probiotics and prebiotics. For example, you can eat yoghurt (probiotic) with bananas or oats (prebiotics) for breakfast.

This way, the good bacteria have the food they need to grow and keep your dog’s digestion healthy.

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4 Easy Homemade Probiotics for Dogs Recipes

Here are four easy recipes to make tasty probiotic foods for your dog. These recipes have enough ingredients for two medium-sized dogs.

Keep the leftover food in jars and put them in the fridge to make them last longer.

1. Pepperful Sauerkraut

Ingredients

  • 1 small cabbage
  • 1 medium sweet pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt

Procedure

  1. Shred the cabbage finely with a knife and put it in a glass bowl.
  2. Finely chop the sweet pepper and mix it with the shredded cabbage.
  3. Sprinkle the sea salt evenly and mix everything for about 10 minutes.
  4. Put the mixture in airtight jars and let them sit for 21 days to ferment.
  5. The sauerkraut should be eaten within 2 weeks.

You can serve it plain to your dog or use it as a food topping. Once opened, keep the leftover food in the refrigerator.

2. Coconut Milk Yogurt

Dairy-free yoghurt treat for lactose-intolerant dogs, this cool and nutritious treat is perfect for summer.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces of coconut milk
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • ½ ripe banana
  • 1 cup grated carrot
  • 1 tablespoon probiotic powder

Procedure

  1. Mix all the ingredients in a glass bowl for about 10 minutes.
  2. Blend the mixture using a blender until it forms a smooth puree.
  3. Place the puree in airtight containers.
  4. Freeze for about 5 hours.

Note: Use sugar-free peanut butter. Avoid products that contain xylitol, as it can be toxic for dogs.

3. Sweetly Burst Blueberry

Ingredients

  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons drinking water
  • 1 pinch of sea salt

Procedure

  1. Mash the blueberries with a fork.
  2. Mix all the ingredients in a glass bowl.
  3. Place the mixture in an airtight container.
  4. Let it sit in the dark for 24 hours.

Fermented berries are best served as toppings for your dog’s food. You can substitute blueberries with any other type of berries (blackberries, strawberries, raspberries).

4. Pumpy Yogurt

Ingredients

  • ½ cup mashed pumpkin
  • 2 cups plain yoghurt
  • ¼ cup unsweetened peanut butter
  • A pinch of turmeric

Procedure

  1. Mix all the ingredients and blend until smooth.
  2. Place the mixture in a buttered cupcake pan.
  3. Freeze for at least 8 hours.

This treat is best served during hot weather.

Consulting a Veterinarian

Before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, it is necessary to consult a veterinarian. They can guide the appropriate amounts of homemade probiotics for your dog based on their specific health needs and dietary requirements.

How To Store Homemade Probiotics for Dogs

  • Homemade probiotics for dogs can be stored easily at home. They don’t have preservatives like commercial canine probiotic supplements.
  • To keep your homemade probiotics fresh longer, store them in an airtight jar in the refrigerator or freezer. This won’t harm the beneficial bacteria.
  • When you’re ready to give the probiotics to your dog, take them out of the freezer and let them warm up naturally. Do not heat the probiotic food, as this will kill the beneficial bacteria.

Final Thoughts

Homemade probiotics can be a beneficial addition to a dog’s diet, promoting better digestion and overall health. However, it’s essential to introduce probiotics gradually and in consultation with a veterinarian to ensure the best outcomes for your furry companion.

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FAQs On Homemade Probiotics For Dogs

What are the benefits of giving homemade probiotics to dogs?

Homemade probiotics can help improve a dog’s digestive system and overall health by promoting a healthy balance of gut flora, aiding in better digestion, and supporting well-being.

Can I give homemade probiotics to my dog if they have a sensitive stomach?

It’s important to consult a veterinarian before giving homemade probiotics to a dog with a sensitive stomach. The veterinarian can guide the appropriate probiotic strains and amounts suitable for your dog’s specific needs.

How often should I give homemade probiotics to my dog?

The frequency of giving homemade probiotics to your dog can vary based on your dog’s health and dietary requirements.

Are there any risks associated with homemade probiotics for dogs?

While homemade probiotics can offer health benefits, there can be risks if not prepared or administered correctly. It’s crucial to follow proper hygiene and food safety practices when making and serving homemade probiotics. Additionally, consulting a veterinarian can help mitigate any potential risks.

Can I combine commercial probiotics with homemade probiotics for my dog?

It’s advisable to consult a veterinarian before combining commercial probiotics with homemade probiotics for your dog. A veterinarian can provide insights into the compatibility of different probiotic strains and guide you on the appropriate approach for your dog’s specific needs.