8 Best Fiber Supplements For Dogs

What’s so special about fiber supplements for dogs? After all, a dog’s body doesn’t digest fiber, unlike other food components – such as carbs, fats, or proteins. So why do veterinarians often recommend pet parents include fiber in their dog’s diet?

For starters, fiber passes through your dog’s small intestine, then onto the colon, and finally out of their body. Along the way, fiber aids in proper digestion, supports weight management, and may help prevent certain health issues. 

In this article, we’ll break down the benefits of incorporating fiber into your dog’s diet, explore different supplement options, and provide tips on integrating these supplements into your dog’s daily routine. Fun fact: When your dog looks forward to a daily treat with hidden benefits, it’s a win-win.

Why Are Fiber Supplements for Dogs Helpful?

The right fiber supplement can benefit your dog in many ways. Here are a few:

Digestive Health

Depending on the product and type of fiber included, fiber can help prevent constipation by bulking up the stool and promoting regular movements. On the flip side, soluble fiber may help absorb excess water in your dog’s digestive tract during bouts of diarrhea. 

Weight Management

Fiber may help regulate your dog’s appetite and promote a sense of fullness. Many dog foods include fiber in their formulas for this very reason. At least 56 percent of American dogs are either overweight or obese. 

Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

Dogs with diabetes or those who are at risk of developing it may benefit from soluble fiber, which can slow down glucose absorption. Fiber slows the entrance of glucose into a dog’s bloodstream so they feel fuller. 

Anal Gland Health

Those small anal sac pouches in dogs produce a foul odor. When dogs begin scooting across the floor or require frequent emptying, your veterinarian may recommend adding a fiber supplement to your dog’s diet.

Colon Support

As in people, fiber in a dog’s diet promotes a healthy colon and a healthy intestinal pH. 

Signs Your Dog May Be Lacking Fiber

Always consult with your dog’s veterinarian first to rule out any underlying conditions and to have an open, honest discussion about the role of fiber in your dog’s life.

Some signs your dog may be lacking fiber in their diet include:

• Frequent diarrhea
• Frequent constipation
• Irregular bowel movements
• Weight issues (mostly weight gain, not feeling full)
• Frequent vomiting 
• Straining/taking a while to defectate 

According to Tufts University regarding fiber, “It serves the same purposes for them as for us: helping to avoid diarrhea and constipation, modulating blood sugar levels, perhaps helping an overweight pet feel more full, even keeping down too-high levels of fat in the blood.”

A board-certified veterinary nutritionist or dietician can also help guide your decision in adding fiber to your dog’s diet.

How To Find A Quality Fiber Supplement For Dogs

In addition to natural fiber sources, many fiber supplements for dogs are available. However, no two supplements are alike, nor are they created equal. There are certain vitamins and minerals required in dog nutrition.

Here’s what to look for in a high-quality fiber supplement for your dog:

Read the Label

Look past the hype or promises on the front of the jar or package. Ensure you feel comfortable with the ingredients in the product. Consult the manufacturer of the product if you have specific questions.

Read Reviews

What are other pet parents saying about the fiber supplement you are considering. Are the reviews mostly positive? If there are negative reviews, why? Sometimes, negative reviews complain about shipping times or damaged boxes on arrival. 

Seal of Approval 

Some products carry an NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) seal of approval. NASC was founded in 2001 with the mission of promoting and protecting the well-being of companion animals. In their own words, “You’re buying from responsible suppliers that have successfully passed a comprehensive third-party audit and maintain ongoing compliance with rigorous NASC quality requirements.”

Ask Your Veterinarian

Show the supplement or a link to it to your veterinarian and ask for their honest feedback prior to adding it to your dog’s diet. 

Consider the Format

Some dogs prefer a chewable treat, while others don’t mind a powder mixed into their food. There are many different forms of canine fiber supplements. It may require a little bit of experimenting on your part to see which one your dog prefers and which works best for them.

Our List

• Great Pet Great Poop Digestive Support Supplement
• NaturVet No Scoot Plus Pumpkin
• Native Pet Organic Pumpkin Fiber for Dogs
• Meaningful Tree Super Pet Total Health
• Dr. Harvey’s Runs Be Done Digestive Tract Supplement
• Fruitables Digestive Supplement
• The Honest Kitchen Perfect Form Herbal Digestive Supplement

8 Best Fiber Supplements For Dogs

Consider the following products to improve your dog’s overall stool quality and digestive health. Make sure to check with your vet before giving your dog any new supplement. 

This high-fiber supplement for dogs can help to firm up your dog’s stool and keep your dog regular, limiting the chance of mucus and diarrhea. These yummy, chicken-flavored chews contain probiotics, Omega 3, and digestive enzymes to support healthy digestion in dogs. Plus, they are made in the USA and don’t contain any artificial flavors or colorings.

Highlights

• This natural formulation has five probiotic strains including Enterococcus faecium and Lactobacillus acidophilus.
• Contains pumpkin seed powder, a good source of fiber; and ginger root powder, a powerful antioxidant with soothing digestive properties.
• Does not contain corn, soy, preservatives, or artificial flavors. 
• Easy to deliver, chewable treat format.

Things to Consider

• Only available in chicken flavor.
• Dogs weighing over 50 pounds require three or more chews per day.

NaturVet No Scoot Plus Pumpkin

Dogs with digestive troubles may also suffer from anal gland problems, which usually make themselves known when your dog starts scooting across the floor. But these powerful and palatable “no scoot” soft chews from NaturVet are designed to help support healthy anal gland and sac function while also getting your pup’s bowels back on track. These tasty morsels feature a proprietary blend of beet pulp and psyllium husk, dandelion root and pumpkin powder.

Highlights

• Made in the USA with non-GMO ingredients.
• Displays the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) Quality Seal.
• Wheat-free.
• Available in a 30- or 60-day supply (60 or 120 chews.)

Things to Consider

• The company recommends giving one soft chew per 20 pounds of body weight twice daily, so your supply will not last as long with a large breed dog.
• You’ll need to ensure your dog drinks plenty of water, given the increase in daily fiber.
• Some reviewers claim their dog didn’t enjoy the taste of the new formula as much as the original.

Native Pet Organic Pumpkin Fiber for Dogs

For pet parents who turn to pumpkin as an all-natural remedy for scooting, as well as a variety of other digestive issues, Native Pet provides an easy-to-use solution: Simply mix a veterinary nutritionist-developed dose of Native Pet’s organic fiber powder with water and create a delicious (and healthy!) pumpkin puree. The powder has a longer shelf life, whereas canned pumpkin expires soon after opening. This formula contains only three organic ingredients and will help to combat diarrhea and loose stools.

Highlights

• Made with only three ingredients: organic pumpkin, pumpkin seed, and apple powders.
• Most customers see results in 2 to 4 days.
• You can mix it with water or sprinkle it over food.
• Average shelf life is 22 months.

Things to Consider

• It’s slightly pricey for an 8-ounce can. But, like we said, it lasts a long time. 
• Some pet owners said it was a bit clumpy when mixed with water.

 Meaningful Tree Super Pet Total Health

This herbal powdered supplement from Meaningful Tree combines all of the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil with acacia fiber, a natural and effective prebiotic that can help support your dog’s gut health. This easy-to-use pet food topper can also help promote skin, coat and joint health.

Highlights

• Rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals
• Also contains phytonutrients and omega-3 fatty acids that help keep your dog’s skin moisturized and well-nourished.
• Made in the USA with sustainable ingredients.
• Fully traceable product.

Things to Consider

• Recommended serving is 1/2 scoop for dogs under 30 pounds and 1 full scoop for dogs 30 pounds and over.
• 30 servings per container.
• As with any new herbal supplement, speak to your vet first before adding to your pet’s diet

Dr. Harvey’s Runs Be Done Digestive Tract Supplement

Despite the best of intentions, sometimes dogs get “the runs,” or diarrhea. Loose stools happen from time to time, so having a product like Dr. Harvey’s Runs Be Done on hand is recommended. Help soothe your pup’s irritated tummy while targeting diarrhea with this all-natural, safe, and effective formula. Unlike canned pumpkin which may go to waste in the refrigerator, you simply add this to your dog’s food as needed and store the rest.

Highlights

• Contains no preservatives, synthetic or artificial ingredients, by-products, fillers, salts, or sugars
• Each container holds 94 scoops, so it lasts a long time.
• Convenient powder contains a soothing blend of pumpkin, slippery elm, bentonite clay, apple pectin, and other healing herbs.
• Targets loose stools and diarrhea but also eases digestion to keep dogs regular.
• Made in the USA with wholesome ingredients
• Easily mixes with food.

Things to Consider

• Dosage is based on the dog’s weight (up to 3-1/2 scoops for dogs over 90 pounds)
• Some dogs may be averse to having something new added to their food
• Always check with your veterinarian for ongoing diarrhea issues

Fruitables Digestive Supplement

Fruitables pumpkin digestive blend is a healthy food addition you add to a dog’s food. This unique formula is a fibrous digestive boost made in the USA with high-quality ingredients. Pumpkin is considered to be one of nature’s superfoods, rich in antioxidants and select vitamins, and a source of dietary fiber. Fruitables formula was developed by veterinarians to help soothe upset stomachs and support a healthy GI tract.

Highlights

• Contains herbs like spearmint and ginger.
• Can be served frozen for a yummy treat.
• Contains no gluten.
• Works quickly and naturally.
• Includes natural fruit and vegetable fibers in every can.

Things to Consider

• Unused portion must be refrigerated and used within one week.
• Each tablespoon contains 4.25 calories.

The Honest Kitchen Perfect Form Herbal Digestive Supplement

Produced with human-grade ingredients in a human food facility, The Perfect Form is designed for stool consistency and bowel health. Made with herbs to soothe and protect your dog’s GI tract, The Perfect Form is made by The Honest Kitchen. Simply combine the powder with the appropriate amount of water to form a gel that dogs enjoy in their food. Ideal for occasional loose stool, dietary indiscretion, or if you are transitioning your dog to a new food.

Highlights

• Contains the NASC seal of approval.
• Easy to prepare and mix into food.
• Contains no preservatives, by-products, fillers, GMOs, corn, wheat, or soy.
• Made in the United States.
• Natural ingredients including papaya leaf, plantain leaf, slippery elm, and pumpkin seed.

Things to Consider

• Some dogs may not be fond of the mixture.
• Larger dogs may require a bigger amount.

Olewo Original Carrots for Dogs

While not a powder or canned supplement, Olewo’s dehydrated non-GMO carrots are highly digestible, as the fiber is already broken down. Because these are pure carrots, they can be used as a food topper for your dog’s regularity or digestive issues. According to the company, there is nothing synthetic in the product, which can help put pet parents’ minds at ease.

Highlights

• Contains 100 percent pure fresh carrots in a gentle dehydration form.
• Ideal for dogs of all ages.
• Great for dogs with digestive issues or sensitive tummies.
• May also help promote a shiny coat and healthy coat.
• Can be cut up and mixed in with any type of dog food.

Things to Consider

• Some dogs may not like carrots.
• A one-pound bag is a bit costly.

Tips When Adding Fiber Supplements To Your Dog’s Diet

1. Monitor your dog’s bowel movements and patterns. If you notice anything of concern or the consistency changes too much, consult your veterinarian.
2. Take photos of your dog’s poops. It makes it easier to show your veterinarian than to try and describe it over the phone.
3. Don’t give up if one fiber supplement does not help. You may need to change supplements or stick with a chewable if your dog prefers that format and has no issues with it.
4. Make sure your dog has access to plenty of cool, fresh water to help them stay hydrated, which further helps the GI tract.
5. Make sure not to give your dog human fiber supplements.
6. Read labels thoroughly and ensure there are no added sugars, spices, or sugar substitutes, the latter of which can be lethal.