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.

Go back to main page

Kefir vs Greek-Style Yoghurt: Which is Better for Your Dog?

Amy Gossling

November 23, 2024

When it comes to giving your dog a healthy treat, yoghurt is often a top choice. Packed with nutrients and probiotics, both kefir and Greek-style yoghurt are popular options for supporting canine health. But which one is better? Let’s dive into the benefits and find out which deserves a spot in your dog’s bowl.

The Benefits of Yoghurt for Dogs Why Kefir Stands Out How to Add Kefir to Your Dog’s Meals Greek-Style Yoghurt Still Has Its Place The Verdict: Kefir is the Winner

The Benefits of Yoghurt for Dogs

Both kefir and Greek-style yoghurt provide:

Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth.

Protein: A vital building block for muscles and overall health.

Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria that support gut health, improve digestion, and boost immunity.

Adding a little yoghurt to your dog's meals can be a simple way to enhance their diet without relying on supplements.

@yearsuk Kefir vs greek yogurt. Which is better for your dog? ##dogrecipes #dognutrition #dogtreats #dogtok #dogfood #dogsoftiktok #dogs #dogmom ♬ original sound - Years.com

Why Kefir Stands Out

While Greek-style yoghurt is undoubtedly healthy, kefir steals the spotlight when it comes to probiotics. Kefir contains a broader range of probiotic strains, making it a powerhouse for gut health. This means:

Better digestion
Enhanced nutrient absorption
Stronger immune function

Because of its higher probiotic content, kefir delivers more health benefits than traditional Greek yoghurt. It’s an easy way to give your dog a natural boost.

How to Add Kefir to Your Dog’s Meals

If you’re ready to include kefir in your dog’s diet, start small. A tablespoon added to their dinner is usually enough for most dogs. Be sure to choose unsweetened and plain kefir without any artificial additives or sweeteners like xylitol, which can be harmful to dogs.

Greek-Style Yoghurt Still Has Its Place

That’s not to say Greek-style yoghurt isn’t a good choice. It’s still a fantastic source of calcium and protein, especially if you’re looking for a thicker, creamier texture. Like kefir, it’s best to stick with unsweetened varieties.

The Verdict: Kefir is the Winner

While both options are healthy, kefir comes out on top for its superior probiotic content. It’s a simple, natural way to support your dog’s digestive health and overall wellbeing. Why not give it a try in your dog’s next meal? After all, a happy gut means a happy dog!
And if you’re looking for complete, healthy meals tailored to your dog’s needs, Years.com is the place to be. We’re dedicated to helping dogs live longer, healthier, and happier lives with breed-specific fresh dog food made from whole food ingredients.

←