While the benefits of probiotics have become widely known in recent years, prebiotics still remain under the radar. As well as a daily dose of probiotics, did you know that your dog should also be receiving prebiotics? 

So what is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?

Probiotics

Probiotics are good bacteria similar to ones that inhabit our digestive tract.

Probiotic-rich foods:

Yogurt
Kefir
Tempeh
Sauerkraut
Kombucha

Note: Do not heat. These foods are heat-sensitive.
Probiotics are also available in capsule or powder form. Check your health food store’s refrigerator for the freshest supplements.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are are non-digestible foods that feed the probiotics. In order for the probiotics to survive in the bowel, you need to feed them prebiotic foods. Prebiotics help stimulate the growth and survival of probiotics. Unlike probiotics, prebiotics are somewhat resistant to heat from cooking. They are also resistant to stomach acids so they are able to travel to the large intestine intact to nourish the good bacteria that reside there.

Prebiotics occur naturally in plants. If your dog is on a balanced raw or natural diet, it is likely already ingesting prebiotics.  Aim to buy organic fruit and vegetables.

Prebiotic-rich foods

(High-fibre foods)

Flax and Chia Seeds
Tomatoes
Fruit such as bananas and berries
Coconut crunch
Green vegetables - artichokes, broccoli, asparagus

So why is it so important to look after your dog’s digestive system?

The digestive system is the workhorse of the body. Keeping it healthy is the key to good health. Poor digestion will affect every system in the body from the muscular to the reproductive systems. The digestive system also constitutes 70 per cent of the body’s immune system which means it defends the body against harmful bacteria and viruses. 

Taking probiotics and prebiotics daily will help to improve the health of your dog’s gut.  Together, they help replace beneficial bacteria destroyed by antibiotics or an inadequate diet.