Published on December 20 by Julia
As a pet parent, you want your dog to be as healthy and comfortable as possible, which includes ensuring their digestive health is in tip-top shape. Whether your dog suffers from occasional digestive discomfort, food sensitivities, or more chronic gastrointestinal issues, gastrointestinal (gastro) supplements can play a vital role in supporting their digestive system and promoting overall wellness.
In this article, we’ll cover the best gastrointestinal supplements for dogs, how they work, and the top products on the market that can help ease digestive issues and improve your dog’s gut health.
Like humans, dogs can suffer from various digestive issues, including:
Gastrointestinal supplements are designed to support the gut by improving digestion, soothing inflammation, and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. These supplements often include a combination of probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and other soothing ingredients like ginger or slippery elm.
Here are some key benefits of gastro supplements for dogs:
Here are some of the best dog gastro supplements available, each with unique features tailored to various digestive concerns:
Best for Digestive Health and Immune Support
FortiFlora by Purina is a top-rated probiotic supplement known for supporting digestive health and improving stool quality in dogs. It contains a strain of Enterococcus faecium, a probiotic that helps restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut, especially after a round of antibiotics or digestive upset. It can also help support immune function, as a large part of your dog’s immune system is tied to the gut.
FortiFlora is easy to administer as it comes in single-serving packets that you simply sprinkle over your dog’s food. It’s a popular choice for managing diarrhea and promoting healthy digestion.
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Best for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
VetriScience VetriMega Probiotic offers a powerful blend of live probiotics, prebiotics, and Omega-3 fatty acids, which support digestion and skin health. The combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum is ideal for rebalancing the gut microbiota, helping with common issues like diarrhea, bloating, or flatulence.
These soft chews are not only effective but also highly palatable, making them a great option for dogs who are picky eaters. The added Omega-3s support your dog’s skin and coat, providing an all-around health boost.
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Best for Digestive Regularity and Immune Support
Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites are designed to promote digestive health, regularity, and immune function in dogs. These chews contain the probiotic strain Bacillus coagulans, which is known for supporting healthy digestion and gut balance. They also include pumpkin, a natural ingredient well known for regulating bowel movements and soothing an upset stomach.
The prebiotics in these chews help feed the probiotics, ensuring that they work effectively. Plus, these chews are delicious, making them a great option for picky dogs.
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Best for Dogs with Food Sensitivities or Poor Digestion
NaturVet Digestive Enzymes with Prebiotics & Probiotics is a comprehensive supplement that helps break down food and aids the absorption of nutrients. This supplement is perfect for dogs that have difficulty digesting certain types of food or have food sensitivities. The blend of digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics promotes proper digestion and reduces bloating, gas, and discomfort.
It’s available in soft chew form, making it convenient for daily use. This supplement is especially helpful for dogs who are transitioning to a new diet or who have sensitive stomachs.
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Best for Occasional Digestive Upset
ProSense Digestive Health Soft Chews are a cost-effective and practical option for supporting your dog’s digestive health. These chews contain a blend of probiotics (Enterococcus faecium) and digestive enzymes that work together to improve digestion and alleviate issues like bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
The inclusion of pumpkin also helps soothe the stomach and supports regular bowel movements, making these chews a great option for dogs who have occasional gastrointestinal discomfort.
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Best for Active Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
Solid Gold Leaping Dog Probiotics is a powdered supplement that contains five strains of probiotics, prebiotics, and pumpkin, which work together to promote digestion and soothe the stomach. This supplement is particularly beneficial for active dogs or dogs that experience digestive disturbances due to exercise or travel.
You can easily sprinkle the powder on your dog’s food, and it helps regulate digestion, reduce gas and bloating, and improve overall gut health.
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When it comes to supporting your dog’s digestive health, choosing the right supplement can make a significant difference in their comfort and well-being. Here’s a quick summary:
By addressing your dog's specific needs, you can help ensure a healthy gut and improve their overall well-being. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen to make sure it’s the right fit for your pet.
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