90% of probiotic chews are produced in the same factory
Many dog owners are unaware that a large number of dog probiotic chews are produced by just a handful of manufacturers. This often leads to similar formulations across different brands. These shared manufacturing processes may prioritize production efficiency over the careful handling of probiotics. As a result, many of these products may not be stored or processed in ways that preserve the bacteria’s effectiveness
How heat affects probiotics
Probiotic bacteria are highly sensitive to heat. When probiotic chews are heated above 40°C during manufacturing, a significant portion of these beneficial bacteria can be killed, rendering the product less effective or even useless. This is especially problematic since the primary role of probiotics is to introduce live, beneficial bacteria into the dog’s gut. Heating above certain thresholds, typically above 40°C, can dramatically reduce the survival rate of these bacteria, leaving less than 10% of the original probiotic count active.
Why you should care
Probiotics work by colonizing the gut, but if most bacteria are dead before they even reach your dog, the product will not deliver the desired benefits, such as improved digestion, enhanced immune function, relief from gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or constipation, and even skin-related issues like itching. Many skin problems, including chronic itching, can be linked to an imbalance in gut bacteria. By maintaining a healthy gut, probiotics can help reduce inflammation and improve overall skin health, which may alleviate itching problems in some dogs.
To ensure the bacteria survive, high-quality probiotic brands use manufacturing techniques like cold processing, which keeps the temperature below harmful levels (ideally below 40°C), or encapsulation technologies that protect the bacteria from heat
How to find probiotics that actually work
Ensuring that the probiotics you give your dog are not part of the 90% produced in the same facility can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. One of the most reliable ways is to look for transparency from the brand you choose. Research whether the brand provides clear information on their manufacturing process, including temperature controls that are crucial for the survival of beneficial bacteria. Ideally, look for brands that use cold processing or similar techniques to maintain the integrity of the probiotics.
That’s exactly what we did when we began investigating the quality of dog probiotics. Through our mission to educate dog owners, we discovered DogSuppy, a Belgium-based brand. While it may not yet be a household name in the UK, it’s already the #1 brand in the Benelux region, known for its commitment to quality over efficiency. Unlike most brands, DogSuppy ensures their probiotics are never heated above 38°C, protecting the beneficial bacteria so they can successfully colonize your dog’s gut. If you’re serious about your dog’s health, take a look at how DogSuppy stands up against other brands and see the benefits for yourself.
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