What is the gut microbiome?

All animals, including dogs and people, have millions of bacteria in their guts. These ‘friendly’ gut bacteria help your dog to digest food as well as provide natural defences against the invasion of potentially harmful microbes. The bacteria inhabiting the intestines are referred to as the gut microbiome. We are learning more and more about the benefits of a healthy microbiome, but we do know that it has a huge impact on the overall well-being of our dogs.

What are probiotics for dogs?

Probiotics can be used to top up the levels of ‘friendly’ bacteria and improve the gut microbiome. This can be particularly helpful if your dog suffers from a digestive disorder, or their gut flora has been disturbed by medication. Probiotics are live microorganisms often given to dogs as a supplement. They may come in powder, paste or tablet form with bacteria specific to improve the gut health of dogs. However, some high-quality diets have probiotics included in their recipes, which can save owners from having to administer any separate treatments, depending on their dog’s needs.

What are prebiotics for dogs?

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibre sources that can increase the number of specific bacteria populations. As these bacteria metabolise prebiotics, the by-products made can have local anti-inflammatory effects on the gut lining and produce energy for your dog. Dietary fibres can also help improve stool consistency, improve the mucus lining of the digestive tract as well as helping improve the health of cells in the intestines. Simply put, prebiotics help good gut bacteria to grow and multiply. Prebiotics are therefore often given at the same time as probiotics.

Are pre and probiotics good for dogs?

Yes! Pre and probiotics for dogs can be excellent at improving digestive health. They are often used to: Help treat sudden onset, uncomplicated diarrhoea cases Prevent stress-induced diarrhoea Manage chronic gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease) alongside medication and dietary changes Increase levels of gut bacteria following courses of antibiotics Probiotics and prebiotics are considered very safe for dogs. Their proven benefits mean that even healthy dogs could show an improvement in gut health, with decreased flatulence and improved stool consistency.

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How to Make a Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Spice Latte: A Seasonal Treat with Health Benefits

Amy Gossling

November 22, 2024

As autumn rolls in, pumpkin spice lattes become a staple for many. But why should humans have all the fun? Here’s a quick, dog-friendly pumpkin spice latte recipe that’s both delicious and nutritious, offering a seasonal treat your pup will adore. This recipe uses only a couple of dog-safe ingredients and provides health benefits when served in moderation. Let’s dive into the details!

Benefits of Pumpkin Spice Latte for Dogs

While pumpkin spice lattes are usually off-limits for our four-legged friends due to added sugars and spices, this simplified version skips any harmful ingredients, making it both safe and beneficial. Here’s a look at the two key ingredients used:
Pumpkin Puree: Known for aiding digestion, pumpkin is a nutrient-dense ingredient that’s gentle on the stomach. It contains fibre, vitamins A, C, and E, which can support your dog’s overall health. In moderation, it’s a fantastic addition to their diet.
Goat’s Milk: Unlike cow’s milk, goat’s milk is generally easier for dogs to digest and is packed with protein and calcium. These nutrients support strong muscles and bones, providing an extra boost of health benefits in this tasty treat.

@yearsuk Pumpkin spiced latte frozen bark 🎃👻😍 #dogsoftiktok #recipe #dog #treat #frozentreats #autumn ♬ original sound - Years.com

The Takeaway

While treats like this pumpkin spice latte are a lovely way to spoil your pup, proper nutrition starts with their main meals. Years.com meals are expertly crafted to provide tailored, breed-specific nutrition, ensuring your dog gets everything they need to thrive, every day.

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