13/03/2026

Gluten Intolerance in Dogs: Vet-Verified Signs, Causes & Care Guide  

While grain-free foods have grown in popularity, the likelihood of gluten sensitivities in dogs is extremely rare, with some dogs even suffering adverse effects from these diets. If you're worried that your dog is suffering from gluten intolerance, we'll explain what this entails, its prevalence, and how you can maintain your dog's health, comfort, and quality of life.
  What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a glycoprotein appearing in several grains, and gliadin is one of the primary proteins in gluten that causes irritation.1 Wheat contains substantial gluten levels, but the compound also exists in barley, rye, triticale, and malt. Rice and corn are among the most common gluten-free grains used in dog food, while other grains and starches, including flax, millet, buckwheat, quinoa, and soy, also lack gluten. Cross-contamination can result in some gluten-free grains, such as oats, to contain variable gluten levels.

  What Is Gluten Intolerance in Dogs?
Gluten intolerance can take a number of different forms in dogs, from the generic (and rare) wheat and gluten allergy, to more specific disorders.
  Wheat and Gluten Allergy
Wheat allergies are one of many food-related allergies that can cause a dog's immune system to mistakenly identify proteins (gluten or otherwise) as a potential threat. When mast cells in the skin, respiratory system, and digestive tract encounter the allergen, they release histamine and other inflammatory mediators, causing an inflammatory cascade that may cause both internal and external signs.
  Lymphocytic plasmacytic enteritis (LPE) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that may occur from a dog's gluten intolerance. Increased concentrations of anti-gliadin antibodies can create a hypersensitivity to gluten-containing diets, which increases with repeated exposure.
  IBD is the most prevalent cause of recurrent vomiting and diarrhea in dogs, and LPE is the most common form of IBD. Dogs with LPE have excessive inflammatory cells, including lymphocytes and plasma cells, build up in the stomach and intestines, resulting in IBD signs.
  An immune response to gluten is only one of many possible causes of LPE, alongside other dietary intolerances (e.g., meat proteins, dairy), infections, and genetic factors. LPE can occur in any dog, with certain breeds, including German Shepherd Dogs and Shar-Peis, being more susceptible. Middle-aged and senior dogs are most prone to this, though dogs as young as 8 months can develop the condition.

Gluten-Sensitive Enteropathy (GSE) in Irish Setters
Researchers identified chronic enteropathies from autoimmune issues in a cohort of Irish Setters in the 1980s, though the processes involved differentiate it from human celiac disease. Signs typically appear at around 6 months. For dogs sensitive to gluten, gliadin doesn't necessarily spur an autoimmune response but does cause damage to the small intestine, with changes including:
 
All this promotes worsening nutrient absorption. Damage can ultimately lead to alterations in the gut microbiome. As these changes to the small intestine occur, hormonal shifts can eventually appear over time, and the intestinal lining may become more permeable, potentially leading to leaky gut syndrome.
  While affected dogs suffer more issues with digestion and uptake of vital nutrients into their system, they are also at greater risk of pathogens and toxins working their way into the bloodstream. Subsequent inflammation can occur throughout the body and open the dog up to numerous diseases.
  Paroxysmal Gluten-Sensitive Dyskinesia in Border Terriers
Paroxysmal gluten-sensitive dyskinesia (PGSD) is a canine epileptoid cramping syndrome found in some Border Terriers. One study also showed an instance of PGSD in a young Yorkshire Terrier. Dogs suffering from this disorder show increased anti-gliadin antibodies, indicating a possible connection to immunological gluten sensitivity.
  PGSD causes varying signs while the dog is conscious. The primary effect is dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements, tremors, and twitching) in multiple limbs. Though it can appear similar to epilepsy, PGSD doesn't include the uncontrolled elimination or hypersalivation issues, loss of awareness, or postictal disorientation and lethargy that are common to seizures.
  Episodes last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Affected dogs typically begin experiencing issues between 6 weeks and 7 years, often showing signs after rising while waking or during moments of stress or excitement.
What Are the Signs of Gluten Intolerance?
The signs of gluten intolerance can vary depending on whether it involves enteropathies, dyskinesia, or general grain allergies. If a dog has an allergy to wheat proteins (whether gluten or otherwise), they may show more familiar signs of an unnecessary immune response similar to other allergies, including:
    When dogs develop IBD, diarrhea and vomiting can result. Additional signs may include a poor body condition score due to weight loss and loss of appetite, abdominal pain, lethargy, and bloody stools.   Signs of GSE
Low bodyweight and a poor coat quality are some of the most apparent signs of the restricted nutrient absorption that comes with gluten-sensitive enteropathy. If this leads to leaky gut syndrome, dogs will show similar signs, including soft stools, flatulence, and vomiting. They can also develop chronic inflammation, skin problems, arthritis, and other advanced issues.

Signs of PGSD
Border Terriers suffering from PGSD suffer from ataxia, with some being unable to stand. They show several nervous signs in their movements, including:
 
PGSD can also present signs similar to allergies, including itchy skin and ears and frequent paw licking. Gastrointestinal signs also appear in roughly half of all cases, including loose stools, abdominal discomfort, and gas. Such issues may occur during or between episodes of dyskinesis.   What Are the Causes of Gluten Intolerance?
Generally, the underlying reasons for gluten intolerance in dogs, whether from allergies or otherwise, are idiopathic (the underlying cause is unknown), and still under investigation. Additionally, the gluten intolerance that generates enteropathies in Irish Setters isn't well understood. Since these dogs don't show obvious autoimmune markers, it becomes more likely that the issue is a genetic one.
  Diagnosing Gluten Intolerance in Your Dog
Vets perform various tests to hone in on the precise issues causing gluten intolerance. After performing a physical, your vet may do additional testing, including:
 
For dietary intolerances, your dog may go on an elimination diet to find the ingredients causing the issues. A hypoallergenic diet missing the allergen in question should resolve signs, and its reintroduction will make them return, allowing you to figure out what kind of foods to avoid.   How Do I Care for a Dog With Gluten Intolerance
The best solution for any gluten intolerance in your dog is to switch to a grain-free diet. Signs could resolve in only a few days or take a few months to disappear, as in the case of some Border Terriers with PGSD. Immediate signs may require intervention to reduce discomfort and avoid worsening damage.
  Dogs with severe gastroenteritis could need medications or intravenous fluid therapy. Immune system-suppressing medications can often help reduce the severity of anti-gliadin reactions. Vets may suggest prebiotics and probiotics to restore a healthy bacterial balance for dogs with altered gut microbiomes.
  If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's our online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!
  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Common Is Gluten Intolerance in Dogs?
Gluten intolerance and allergies are relatively rare in dogs. Wheat-related allergies may be more common and possible in various breeds but are still unusual. According to a warningfield report, food allergies only appear in 0.2% of dogs, though others have shown a higher prevalence of 1%–2%. Allergies can occur from numerous ingredients, including (in order of prevalence):
  Beef Dairy Chicken Wheat Lamb Soy Corn
  One review of common allergens suggested that wheat allergies may only account for 13% of canine food-related allergies. Another calculated that only 0.05% of dogs have a food sensitivity. Extrapolating the occurrence of wheat allergies to the entire population, it determined they only occur in less than 0.01% of dogs.

Is Gluten-Free or Grain-Free Dog Food Better?
If your dog does not have a gluten intolerance or allergy, there is no specific medical reason to select a gluten-free food. However, dog foods containing a high proportion of gluten-containing ingredients such as grains and wheat, are not necessarily the best options anyway, as these are often included to make up calories at a lower cost. Although some grains are a healthy addition to your dog's diet, they shouldn't make up a significant proportion of their food.

  Completely grain-free dog foods have been linked to a possible increase in the incidence of cardiomyopathy in dogs, however, this link has not been proven. It does, however, suggest that grain-free doesn't necessarily mean healthier.   Conclusion
Canine gluten intolerance is uncommon, so if you suspect your dog may be having an adverse reaction to their food, simply switching to a gluten free diet probably won't solve the problem. If your dog is showing signs of a food intolerance, such as itchy skin, feet, and ears, or chronic diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss, it's best to have them assessed by your vet. Before making assumptions about the cause and potentially unnecessary lifestyle changes for your dog, discuss your dog's condition with your vet to get a thorough assessment and narrow down the problem. Fortunately, a straightforward diet change is often all you need to put your dog on the fast track to recovery and avoid ongoing issues. Source: Dogster

12/02/2026

Portion Control Unlocks Better Health for Your Four-Legged Friend

Why Portion Control Matters
Obesity is incredibly common in dogs and can significantly impact your furry friend's quality of life. The extra weight puts stress on their joints, bones, and muscles, often leading to painful arthritis. Beyond joint problems, obesity affects nearly every major organ system and can even shorten your dog's lifespan.
  The good news? Most cases of obesity in otherwise healthy dogs come down to feeding patterns. The most common culprits include free-choice feeding (leaving food out all day), offering high-fat diets, giving excessive treats or table scraps, and providing portions that are simply too large for your dog's needs.   The Power of Measured Meals
Portion control for canine obesity prevention is an excellent strategy. Instead of eyeballing your dog's food or filling the bowl until it looks 'about right,' take the time to actually measure their portions. This might seem like a small detail, but 'heaping' portions can easily add extra calories with each serving, sabotaging even your best intentions to keep your companion at a healthy weight.
  Work with your veterinarian to determine how many calories your dog needs daily. This calculation considers their age, whether they're spayed or neutered, their activity level, and their current body condition. Once you know the right amount, use an actual measuring cup—not just a scoop or your best guess.   What About Treats?
Treats are wonderful for training, bonding, and showing love to your four-legged family member. However, treats should only make up about 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. Consider saving portions of their regular daily food to use as training rewards, or try low-calorie options like fresh vegetables such as peas. Many dogs appreciate the frequency of treats rather than the quantity, so even small portions can make them happy.
  While exercise is important and should definitely be part of your dog's routine, physical activity alone won't prevent obesity without proper dietary management. The combination of measured portions and regular activity is the winning formula.
  If you're unsure whether your dog is at a healthy weight or need help calculating the right portions, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. They can evaluate your dog's body condition and create a personalized feeding plan that works for your family.
  Portion control for canine obesity prevention works. Remember, helping your dog maintain a healthy weight through portion control is one of the greatest gifts you can give them—it promotes better health, increased longevity, and a higher quality of life for years to come. Source: Animal Wellness

11/02/2026

Transforming Suppliers into Innovation Partners in the Pet Food Industry

By Ludmila Barbi T. Bomcompagni

Raw Materials: The Source of Major Risks   In recent years, many countries have reported multiple recall incidents involving animal feed products, and scientific literature confirms a pattern familiar the sector: most contamination in pet food results from inadequate monitoring of raw materials or from ingredients purchased without an adequate technical history (Witaszak et al., 2020; Cheli et al., 2020).
  The increasing onset of mycotoxins such as aflatoxins, DON, fumonisins, and zearalenone, as well as other contaminants in dog and cat food, demonstrates that agricultural ingredients and animal by-products pose specific risks to food safety and quality (Witaszak et al., 2020). This data reinforces a fundamental point: there is no connected plant without a connected supplier.   The Limits of Isolated Control Within Factories   When a manufacturer, especially a smaller operation, tries to build an isolated quality control system without technical collaboration at the upstream stage, its limitations quickly become apparent. This is because the natural variability of ingredients, such as corn, protein meals, animal by-products, and oils, cannot be fully controlled through incoming inspection alone.
  According to food safety literature, raw material specifications are the cornerstones of risk prevention, yet continue to be neglected, particularly by smaller plants (Cheli et al., 2020). Many manufacturers operate with simplified raw material descriptions, without analytical limits, a statistical database, or a clear understanding of the specific risks associated with each origin or crop.   The Supplier as an Intelligent Link in the Chain   Precisely at this point, the supplier becomes not just an input vendor, but a truly intelligent link in the chain. Technical suppliers have access to internal databases, batch-by-batch analysis, variation curves, harvest records, seasonal monitoring, and certified industrial processes.
  When this data is shared, manufacturers gain immediate access to a layer of intelligence that would be extremely difficult to build on their own. What defines a truly connected plan is this structured information—a plant that is not only internally integrated but extended across the entire production chain (Integrated Mycotoxin Management System, 2021; Aung & Chang, 2014).    Joint Development of Technical Specifications   The joint development of technical specifications is a clear example of how this connection changes the landscape. Historical-based specifications are significantly more effective at reducing deviations than generic models applied to all sources (Cheli et al., 2020).
  A well-prepared supplier can help the manufacturer understand:
  The natural variability of ingredients. Expected limits of mycotoxins and other contaminants by region. Seasonal trends in moisture and composition. Appropriate analytical methods for each risk.
  This collaboration reduces unnecessary rejections, minimizes process variability, and lowers formulation costs.   Mycotoxins: An Example of Strategic Partnership   Collaboration becomes even more strategic in the case of mycotoxins, one of the critical contaminants in pet food. The BIOMIN Mycotoxin Survey and other studies have shown that the presence of aflatoxins, DON, and fumonisins varies widely depending on season, region, and climatic conditions, reinforcing the need for continuous, shared monitoring (Cheli et al., 2020; Witaszak et al., 2020). In other words, a manufacturer that only analyzes what arrives at its gate is always reacting too late. Trend-based monitoring programs that consider seasonal patterns are far more effective than isolated analyses (Cheli et al., 2020). And who understands these trends better than the supplier, who follows the ingredient from the field through processing?   Traceability Starting with the Supplier   Connectivity is also reflected in traceability. The origin, production date, storage time, logistics route, laboratory analysis, and processing conditions are all part of the history of each batch that comes into the factory.
  When suppliers make these data available in a structured way—through QR codes, digital reports, or integrated systems—manufacturers operate with far greater speed and confidence. Upstream traceability is one of the weakest points in the global pet food supply chain, and the most efficient way to strengthen it is to ensure that the information flows from the supplier (Aung & Chang, 2014).   Training and Qualification as Part of Connectivity   This relationship is not limited to documentation; it extends to technical training. Many of the errors that lead small plants to accept irregular batches are the result of inadequate sampling, misinterpretation of reports, or lack of awareness of the most likely risks. Studies show that even basic training for receiving teams significantly reduces the intake of out-of-spec raw materials (Integrated Mycotoxin Management System, 2021).
  By providing these services, whether through training, consulting, or technical visits, suppliers effectively raise the plant's maturity level, helping it operate as a connected system even without major technological investments.   Hybrid Analytical Tools   The supplier-manufacturer connection translates into practical innovation through the use of hybrid analytical tools. When properly validated, rapid mycotoxin test kits correlate well with confirmatory methods and are recommended as part of contaminant detection systems (Cheli et al., 2020).
  Small plants can adopt an efficient combination: rapid screening upon receipt, periodic validation in an accredited laboratory, and continuous analytical reports provided by the upstream partner. This approach reduces waste, accelerates decision-making, and enables more intelligent use of resources.   Conclusion   The literature also shows that plants operating with shared supplier data achieve better production predictability and lower cost variability (Integrated Mycotoxin Management System, 2021).
  When suppliers and manufacturers operate as a single information network, the industry obtains safety, predictability, innovation, and competitiveness. The global pet food market—ever more demanding and risk-sensitive—depends on this intelligent integration, which begins before the production line and ends with safe, traceable, and stable food reaching the bowl.
  By Ludmila Barbi Trindade Bomcompagni – All Pet Food
Source: All Pet Food Magazine
  References Aung, M. M., & Chang, Y. S. (2014). Trazabilidad en una cadena de suministro alimentaria: perspectivas de seguridad y calidad. Control de Alimentos, 39 años, 172184. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodcont.2013.11.007 Cheli, F., Campagnoli, A., Dell'Orto, V. (2020). Herramientas de gestión de la contaminación por micotoxinas y estrategias eficientes en la industria de los piensos. Toxinas, 12(8), 480. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins12080480 Witaszak, N., Waśkiewicz, A., Bocianowski, J., & Stępień, Ł. (2020). Contaminación de la comida para mascotas con micobiota y micotoxinas de fusarium—Céntrate en perros y gatos. Toxinas, 12(2), 130. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins12020130 Sistema integrado de gestión de micotoxinas en la cadena de suministro de piensos: enfoques innovadores. (2021). Toxinas, 13(8), 572. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins13080572

23/01/2026

Ground Breaking New Study Reveals the True Complexity of the Canine Microbiome

For humans and animals alike, a healthy gut microbiome is central to countless physiological processes in the body.1 Defined as the community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract, including bacteria and archaea, the gut microbiome is essential for metabolism, immunity and defense against pathogens. 
  But, despite its importance, the gut microbiome in dogs is vastly understudied. Our understanding is primarily based on human-centric research.  And this lack of species-specific insight has limited how much we have been able to monitor, support and influence gut health in dogs.      That is, until now.     A new standard in pet microbiome research
Waltham scientists have now uncovered how unique the canine gut microbiome really is.     Waltham Catalogue for the Canine Gut Microbiome: A complete taxonomic and functional catalogue of the canine gut microbiome through novel metagenomic based genome discovery has been published this month in Springer Nature's Microbiome.   The most comprehensive resource of its kind, the catalogue dramatically increases what was previously known about the canine gut microbiome.     Dogs' true uniqueness revealed 
The discovery began with metagenomic sequencing, performed on 501 faecal samples from 107 healthy dogs across the USA and Europe. This was made possible by data leveraged from the Mars Petcare archive.     The process produced 5,753 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), consolidated into 1,031 distinct strains.    Of those 1,031 distinct strains: 
  982 are novel   89 are new species   10 are new genera 
  This breakthrough reveals that the canine gut microbiome is truly unique. It cannot be likened to other species, which challenges prior assumptions.     Uncovering the critical role of the gut microbiome in dogs 
Through the catalogue's detailed functional descriptions of the novel strains, we can better understand their role in the health of dogs. We've learnt that many of them produce important enzymes and metabolites, that could be capable of influencing the immune system or providing nutrition to cells in the gut lining.    Moreover, we have gained insights into known species of bacteria, that we previously did not know were present in the canine gut. Like CAZymes - enzymes that break down complex dietary fibres.     The prevalence of CAZymes in a number of known species in the canine gut has, for the first time, revealed the critical role of the gut microbiome in dogs' digestion.    And the high percentage of metabolic pathways attributed to carbohydrate metabolism, confirms dogs rely on their microbiome to process certain nutrients.     A better view of canine gut microbial capabilities 
But despite the beneficial roles of the canine gut microbiome, could it also cause harm? This question was important to answer, given the microbiome's potential for pathogenicity – it's ability to cause disease.     To investigate, we used AMRFinderPlus, a tool that can identify if bacteria possess antimicrobial resistance (AMR), stress or virulence genes.     Importantly, we found that most of the novel bacteria in the canine gut microbiome were commensal and lacked toxin or AMR genes.     Shaping more personalised care for dogs 
The Waltham Catalogue for the Canine Gut Microbiome is now a key resource for researchers worldwide.     Spanning multiple cohorts of pet dogs, across different countries, living in different environments – the catalogue provides the highest resolution image of the healthy dog microbiome to date.     Researchers will be able to apply the catalogue's insights regardless of the dog breed, age, sex or geography. 
  As a result, the catalogue expands opportunities to understand the role of the microbiome in canine health and disease. And it is a step towards more completely mapping the taxonomic and functional impact of dietary interventions.     Powerfully, the insights could unlock a future of personalised treatment for dogs, tailored to their unique biological needs.    Dr Gregory Amos, Senior Research Manager at Waltham, reflects on the significance of this: 'With our new, critical understanding of what makes the canine gut microbiome unique, we have never been better equipped to develop solutions that improve the lives of dogs.'    By driving these new discoveries, Waltham continues to advance science in service of our purpose: Build A Better World for Pets.  Source: Waltham Reference
1 Barko et al., 2018

20/01/2026

What to Add to Your Dog’s Diet to Boost Gut Health

There are many foods you can add to your dog's diet to boost their gut health, from leafy greens to lean meats. You can also add probiotic powders, capsules, and kibble. These often contain different probiotic strains that reinforce different aspects of your dog's mental and physical well-being. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any supplements to your dog's diet.   Vegetables Are Packed With Vitamins and Nutrients
Of the foods that dogs and foods can both eat, superfoods are a great choice. This refers to nutrient-packed foods rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, all of which support the healthy bacteria in your dog's gut.
  These veggies include:
  Dandelion greens: Called the 'perfect plant medicine,' these so-called weeds are a natural source of vitamins A, C, K, D, and B. They also contain inulin, a prebiotic on which probiotics feed and gain nourishment.
  Broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower: In small amounts, these foods are a strong source of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, all of which work together to support your dog's bodily functions. A tip: run these veggies through a food processor to break down the cell walls to ease digestion.
  Spinach (with your veterinarian's approval): Feeding dogs spinach is a controversial topic for several reasons, mainly because it contains high amounts of oxalic acid, which can block calcium absorption and cause kidney damage. However, spinach also contains roughage â€' fibrous, non-digestible material that helps move food through the GI tract.   Fermented Food Can Nourish Probiotics
Think of your dog's gut like a city, with bacteria as its residents. The more diverse the population of probiotic bacteria, the more equipped your dog is to ward off infections and maintain a healthy immune system.
  Fermented foods can add diversity to the helpful probiotics in your dog's gut. While sauerkraut may be too salty for your dog's taste, low-sodium sauerkraut could be a better alternative. If your dog isn't lactose intolerant, these other fermented foods could offer a rich source of probiotics:
  Raw goat milk Unsweetened yogurt Low-sodium cottage cheese Unsweetened buttermilk Kefir (a fermented milk drink)
  The live cultures in these products support healthy gut flora, which can work to aid digestion and the immune system's response to infection. If your dog is sensitive to dairy, there are other foods (such as fermented beets) that can nourish the healthy bacteria in their gut.   Pumpkin: A Superpowered Superfood
If you want to pump up your dog's gut health, consider incorporating pumpkin into their diet. The gourd is rich in fiber and a great source of prebiotics, which remember, feed probiotics.
  Rich in vitamins and minerals, pumpkin aids digestion by adding bulk to your dog's stool, helping with mild constipation or diarrhea. Additionally, as your dog's intestines break down pumpkin, fermentation releases fatty acids that offer energy to cells, lower the large intestine's pH level, and promote water and sodium absorption.
  Depending on your dog's size, the ideal serving is one to four tablespoons of pumpkin per meal. You can mix cooked, peeled, and unsalted pumpkin into your dog's food or offer it separately as a treat. Unseasoned canned pumpkin is also convenient, but don't give your dog pumpkin pie filling, as it may contain spices and seasonings that they shouldn't consume as well as xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs.   Lean Meats and Fish Support Healthy Gut Bacteria
Adding fish to your dog's diet is also a great way to boost gut health. Many commercial dog foods have fish-infused formulations rich in omega-3 fatty acids and proteins. If your veterinarian approves of feeding your dog a homemade diet with fish, they'll likely suggest using fish free of heavy metals. These include herring, salmon, and ocean and lake whitefish, to name a few. Tuna and swordfish may carry high levels of mercury and disrupt your dog's gut microbiome.
  Adding lean meats like turkey and chicken to your dog's diet can benefit their gut health in many ways. They don't contain live bacterial cultures like yogurt or kefir, but for dogs with sensitive stomachs, these bland, easily digestible foods provide adequate nutrition without irritating the stomach.
  When preparing lean meats for your dog, avoid seasonings like salt, herbs, and cooking oil. Never use onion or garlic powder, as these concentrated spices can prove toxic to dogs. Be sure to cook the meat thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria. Steaming, grilling, or boiling the meat is preferable. Processed deli meats contain a lot of sodium and preservatives, and therefore, aren't ideal.   Introducing New Foods to Your Dog's Diet   Many dogs leap at the chance to try something new in their food bowl. However, before adding anything to your dog's dinner, there are a few things to keep in mind:   Start slow. Gradually adding new foods to your dog's diet allows you to gauge their response and prioritize their comfort. For example, you may add 1 tablespoon of pumpkin to their kibble on Monday and work up to 4 tablespoons by Sunday.
  Monitor their stool quality. To see how your dog reacts to new foods, check their poop. The perfect poop should be log-shaped, brown, and reflect how much they ate. Runny stool, diarrhea, or constipation could suggest switching to another supplement.
  Talk to your vet for case-specific recommendations. Your veterinarian may suggest gut-boosting foods and probiotic bacterial strains tailored to your dog's age, breed, and any pre-existing health conditions they may have.   Probiotic Supplements Aim to Boost Multiple Bodily Systems
Probiotic supplements take a proactive approach to enhancing your dog's quality of life. They work to improve nutrient absorption, bolster your dog's immune system, and balance their gut microbiome. The ideal probiotic strain and supplement depend on your pet's health goals, such as whether you're attempting to improve your dog's digestion or offer additional support as they age.
  Regardless, probiotics are safe, backed by research, and allow you to prioritize your dog's health from the inside out.
  By Colt Dodd
Source: American Kennel Club