Is your dog constantly scratching or struggling with tummy troubles? A probiotic might be the simple, natural solution you’ve been looking for. At Best Dog Probiotics, we test and compare top probiotic products for dogs. We’ve seen the good, the great, and the “not-so-great”. If you’re thinking about trying probiotics for your dog, this guide is for you. Here’s what you need to know before you start. Including the benefits, the drawbacks, and what to watch out for.
The pros of giving your dog probiotics
Let’s start with the positives, and there are quite a few.
✅ 1. Probiotics support gut health
A healthy gut is the foundation of your dog’s wellbeing. Probiotics help keep things balanced by topping up the good bacteria in the digestive system. This can improve everything from digestion to mood.
✅ 2. They can help with itching, allergies and skin issues
We’ve tested several probiotic chews designed to ease itchy skin, paw licking, and redness – and many do seem to help. Probiotics work from within to support the immune system and reduce overreactions like allergies.
✅ 3. Natural alternative to strong medications
Unlike steroids or antibiotics, probiotics are gentle and natural. They don’t come with harsh side effects and don’t cause long-term damage to organs like the liver or kidneys.
✅ 4. May improve digestion and poo quality
From loose stools to bloating or gassiness, a daily probiotic can often calm things down and help your dog digest food more effectively.
✅ 5. Easy to give
Most good probiotics come as tasty soft chews, which are usually gobbled up like a treat – no fuss.
The cons of giving your dog probiotics
Probiotics aren’t a magic fix, and there are a few things to be aware of.
⚠️ 1. Not all probiotics are equal
Some cheaper products contain very low amounts of bacteria or only one strain. Others don’t survive the stomach acid to actually reach the gut. That’s why it’s important to choose a trusted brand with proven results.
⚠️ 2. It takes time to work
Probiotics aren’t an instant solution. They work gradually, rebalancing the gut over time. It can take 2–6 weeks to notice visible changes in skin, digestion, or energy levels.
What to look for in a quality dog probiotic
To get the benefits (and avoid the drawbacks), make sure the product you choose has:
✅ Multiple strains of beneficial bacteria
✅ A strong CFU count – ideally 1–3 billion or more per chew
✅ Extras like prebiotics or postbiotics to boost effect
✅ Natural ingredients – no unnecessary fillers or additives
✅ Positive reviews from real dog owners
✅ A money-back guarantee
Which probiotic supplement should you consider
We’ve tested several probiotic products that claim to support these areas, and in many cases, they do make a noticeable difference. Thanks to this extensive testing, we can also tell you exactly which probiotic brands are the best.
Based on our findings, DogSuppy’s Itch Relief Probiotics is the most effective option we’ve come across. Each chew contains over 3 billion live cultures and is made with only natural ingredients.
DogSuppy focuses on addressing the root cause of the problem rather than just hiding the symptoms. Most dogs show noticeable improvement within a few weeks. With a 60-day satisfaction guarantee and no unnecessary additives, it is a safe and reliable choice to support your dog’s long-term health.
Our verdict
Probiotics can be a great tool for supporting your dog’s health, especially if they struggle with itching, gut problems or allergies. But they’re not one-size-fits-all. Choose a high-quality product, be patient, and track your dog’s progress over a few weeks. That way, you’ll know if they’re truly making a difference – and if they’re worth keeping in your dog’s daily routine.
Want to know which probiotic works best for your dog’s needs?
👉 Check out our comparison page for full reviews, top picks, and honest results.