Homemade and Natural Probiotics for Dogs

This post is written by our holistic veterinarian at "I and love and you", Dr. Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT.

WHAT IS HEALTHY BACTERIA FOR YOUR DOG?

Your dog’s gut is lined with trillions of bacteria. While it may sound gross, the balance of those bacteria can make or break your dog’s health. The more good bacteria that thrive in your dog’s gut, the better your dog’s health. Here are a few ways good bacteria help your pup stay healthier:

• Improved immune function (fewer infections)
• Fewer food and environmental allergies
• Improved mood
• Fewer upset tummies (vomiting, diarrhea, constipation)

HERE ARE THREE SUPER SIMPLE WAYS YOU CAN CREATE THIS HEALTHY GUT ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR PUP:

1. MINIMAL PROCESSING: Feed a minimally processed diet if it’s right for your pet. I love “I and Love and You” products like Nude Superfood because it’s a convenient kibble product and filled with pre and probiotics.
2. DAILY INTAKE: Give your dog probiotics daily, like Naked Essentials kibble because it comes with prebiotics and probiotics already in the formula.
3. DIY: Make your own probiotics with fermented foods. (This is what all the cool dogs in Boulder do!) Check out our berry smoothie recipe below.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE MY DOG?

Looking for how much to feed your puppy? We've got you covered. Check out the dosing chart below to reference as guidelines. You can adjust as necessary, just keep in mind that adding any new food or supplement can cause an upset stomach in really sensitive dogs.

WEIGHT	STARTING DOSE	AFTER 1 WEEK	AFTER 2 WEEKS
<20 LB	1/2 TSP ONCE DAILY	1 TSP ONCE DAILY	1 TSP TWICE DAILY OR 2 TSP ONCE DAILY
21-50 LB	1 TSP ONCE DAILY	1 TSP TWICE DAILY	2 TSP TWICE DAILY
>50 LB	2 TSP ONCE DAILY	1 TBSP ONCE DAILY	1 TBSP TWICE DAILY

Or... make it simple and switch to a kibble that already includes probiotics. Fortunately, all kibble products from "I and love and you" include prebiotics and probiotics.

HOMEMADE HONEY BERRY PROBIOTIC FOR DOGS

To share more about the last DIY tip, fermented foods typically have a much higher bacteria count compared to unfermented foods, and they’re easy to make at home. Here’s my dog-approved fermented berry recipe (the berries are a great source of antioxidants that help fight inflammation and disease, and you can use all three types of berries or just one or two). My pug prefers blueberries and strawberries.

SUPPLY LIST

• A pint size mason jar
• 1 cup of organic berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons of water
• 1 tsp Culture starter
• A pinch of salt Fermenting weight(optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Mix the water, honey, salt and culture starter together in a bowl or cup.
2. Mash the berries in the mason jar with a clean hand or spoon.
3. Pour the water mixture over the berries. Ensure all the berries stay submerged under the water. Add more water if necessary. A fermenting weight will aide in keeping the berries underwater but is not required.
4. Let sit on the counter, away from direct sunlight, for 24 hours. Make sure the berries stay submerged under the water line. A lack of oxygen is required for fermentation.
5. When berries are fully fermented they will have a fizzy and tart taste. If they don’t taste like that, throw that batch away, and try again.
6. Add as a topper on your pup’s food daily. It will look so gourmet!