7 Best Prebiotics for Dogs

Prebiotics for dogs are the unsung heroes of the canine gut. Probiotics tend to get all the attention, but prebiotics serve a very useful, distinct, and viable purpose in your dog’s overall digestive health. At least 70 percent of your dog’s immune system is in his gastrointestinal (GI) tract (1), so you can imagine why it is important to keep harmful bacteria out of it. 

Incorporating a quality prebiotic into your dog’s diet may help boost his immune system, keep his gut healthy, promote bone strength, and balance blood sugar levels (2). But like dogs, no two prebiotics are the same. We’ll break down exactly how prebiotics work, plus share our recommendations for the best prebiotics for dogs.

There should never be any artificial sugars or sweeteners, such as xylitol, in any products you give your dog. Ask your veterinarian if your dog is already receiving an adequate amount of prebiotics in his dog food or if supplementing will be beneficial.

Our Picks

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• Best Chewable Prebiotic for Dogs: Great Pet Great Poop Digestive Support Dog Supplement
• Best Dog Supplement Powder with Prebiotic: Meaningful Tree’s Super Pet Total Health
• Best Prebiotic for Dogs with Pumpkin: Super Snouts GI Balance Digestive Supplement
• Best Capsule Prebiotic for Dogs: VetriScience Laboratories Vetri Mega Probiotic with Prebiotic
• Best Tablet Prebiotic for Dogs: Vetericyn All-In Dog Supplement
• Best Liquid Herbal Prebiotic for Dogs: Animal Essentials Healthy Gut Herbal Prebiotic
• Best Prebiotic Dental Sticks for Dogs: PetLab Co. Prebiotic Dental Sticks

7 Best Prebiotics for Dogs to Consider

Best Chewable Prebiotic for Dogs

Our pick: Great Pet Great Poop Digestive Support Dog Supplement

Poop happens, but it’s even better when it’s great poop. Some pet parents prefer giving their dog a chewable supplement, which is why Great Pet’s Great Poop is a winner. This chicken-flavored chew combines several products in one, including fiber, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and inulin (the prebiotic). It’s hard enough to get everything into our dogs bodies and make sure they like the taste and aren’t getting unnecessary preservatives. Great Poop takes the guesswork out of supplement management with its all-in-one chewable for dogs.

Highlights

• Contains no corn, soy, preservatives, or artificial flavoring
• Supports the digestive tract with a multi-pronged approach 
• Nutritious and delicious for even the most finicky canine palate
• Firms up loose stool, prevents constipation, and relieves bloating
• Generous 120-count product, made in the USA
• High fiber with oat flour and flax seed for an added omega-3 benefit 
• Your dog gets a tasty treat without hiding anything in his food 

Things to Consider 

• Store in a cool, dry place (no need to refrigerate)
• Use in dogs over 12 weeks of age
• Contains a 4-month supply for most small breeds; 1-month supply for larger dogs

Best Dog Supplement Powder with Prebiotic

Our pick: Meaningful Tree’s Super Pet Total Health

Basic, simple, honest, and transparent are at the heart of Meaningful Tree’s Super Pet Total Health dog supplement powder. This proprietary formula combines extra virgin olive oil with acacia fiber, a natural prebiotic. While the acacia fiber supports your dog’s gut and digestive health, antioxidants like vitamin E found in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) help fight free radicals. EVOO also contains omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients to support your pup’s skin and coat health. 

Highlights

• Made in the United States with sustainable ingredients
• Adds luster and sheen to your dog’s coat
• Acacia fiber promotes solid poops and overall digestive health 
• Contains antioxidants to fight free radicals
• Contains polyphenols for brain health 
• Easy-to-use powder that you blend or sprinkle on your dog’s food

Things to Consider 

• Keep the container near your dog’s food so you don’t forget to serve it daily 
• Use ½ scoop for dogs up to 30 pounds and one scoop for dogs over 30 pounds 

Best Prebiotic for Dogs with Pumpkin

Our pick: Super Snouts GI Balance Digestive Supplement

Pumpkin is often touted as a superfood for dogs, and with good reason. Pumpkin can help slow down your pup’s digestion and passage of waste. This delayed action means more time for his body to absorb the water it needs to form solid stools. Super Snouts combines fiber and prebiotics to reduce flatulence, reduce nausea, and support your dog’s digestive health. In addition to pumpkin, Super Snouts contains apple fiber, Egyptian fennel, organic agave inulin, and organic ginger.

Highlights

• Made with agave inulin, which serves as a healthier substitute to sugar and feeds natural flora
• Apple fiber cleanses the lower bowel and colon
• Includes ginger for nausea, gas, and motion sickness
• Fiber-rich pumpkin promotes healthy, firm stools
• Egyptian fennel seed helps to reduce gas 

Things to Consider 

• Should be fed once a day
• The manufacturer suggests mixing the product with equal parts water and adding to your pet’s food, but you can also feed it dry
• Daily serving amount will vary based on your dog’s weight and can range from as little as 1-3 teaspoons for dogs up to 25 pounds to 3-5 tablespoons for large dogs 75-100+ pounds. 
• Do not feed to dogs who have an adverse reaction to apples

Best Capsule Prebiotic for Dogs

Our pick: VetriScience Laboratories Vetri Mega Probiotic with Prebiotic

Achieve digestive balance with these prebiotic and probiotic capsules from VetriScience Laboratories. The prebiotic in these capsules, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), are carbs made of two naturally occurring sugars. They can help maintain colon health and promote beneficial bacteria (5). VetriScience recommends this product for dogs with food intolerances, diarrhea, constipation, or flatulence. Since it’s a non-dairy formula, it will not upset your dog’s gut. 

Highlights

• An all-natural source of beneficial microorganisms, with 5 billion microorganisms per capsule
• Contains probiotics and a prebiotic (FOC)
• Can also be given to cats for multi-pet households
• Beneficial to a dog’s immune and neurologic systems
• Veterinarian-formulated
• Manufactured in the USA

Things to Consider 

• Give one capsule to dog up to 40 pounds and two capsules for dogs over 40 pounds 
• Manufactured suggests giving to your dog after a meal 
• Should be stored in a cool, dry place and suggested refrigeration after opening
• Recommended for stressful times, dogs with food allergies and sensitivities
• Available in 120 or 240 count

Best Tablet Prebiotic for Dogs

Our pick: Vetericyn All-In Dog Supplement

Vetericyn is a trusted name that has been manufacturing high-quality pet products since 2009. Their All-In dog supplement covers several bases of canine health, from prebiotics for a healthy gut and nutrient absorption to digestive enzymes for healthy digestion. The liver flavor is drool-worthy to dogs, and each container is packed with 90 tablets, which are scored to break if desired. The product grows with your dog throughout his life stages, as there are several formulas available. 

Highlights

• Available in puppy, adult, and senior formulas
• May soothe skin-related issues associated with seasonal allergies
• Helps the body by promoting resistance to pathogens
• A complete source of canine vitamins and minerals
• Gluten-free, lactose-free, and GMO-free
• Made in America
• Can be fed as is or broken up to mix into your dog’s food

Things to Consider 

• Choose the right life stage for your dog’s age
• Contains liver powder
• Dogs up to 10 pounds get one tablet per day, dogs over 50 pounds receive three per day

Best Liquid Herbal Prebiotic for Dogs

Our pick: Animal Essentials Healthy Gut Herbal Prebiotic 

Some pet parents prefer a liquid format prebiotic for easy dispensing. Animal Essentials Healthy Gut Herbal Prebiotic Dog & Cat Supplement contains certified organic chicory root, marshmallow root, fennel seed, and yucca to feed the good bacteria in your dog’s gut. Use the included dropper to measure the exact amount of prebiotic as indicated on the label. A little goes a long way with this prebiotic, which is made in the USA. 

Highlights

• Alcohol-free and made with pride in Phoenix, Arizona
• Carries the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) quality seal 
• Can be given directly into your dog’s mouth or mixed in with his food
• Organic herbal formulation designed to support healthy, digestive microflora
• Chicory root supports mineral absorption and digestion
• Reviews indicate some pet parents use it for their pet’s irritable bowel disease

Things to Consider 

• Check with your veterinarian if you plan to use this daily 
• Can also be used on cats

Best Prebiotic Dental Sticks for Dogs

Our pick: PetLab Co. Prebiotic Dental Sticks

Imagine being able to support your dog’s dental and gut health in a treat format. PetLab Co’s prebiotic dental sticks are safe enough for everyday use to promote healthy digestion and support gum health. Infused with flax seed, chicory root, organic coconut oil, and peppermint oil, this product is a win-win for dog moms and dads who don’t want the fuss and muss of a liquid, pill, or capsule. 

Highlights

• Two beneficial features in one tasty dog treat
• Available in 6-count or 24-count bag
• Contains chicory root (inulin), which supports a dog’s natural immune system
• Designed to freshen breath and support oral hygiene from within 
• Made without fillers 
• Can be used daily on dogs over 12 weeks of age

Things to Consider 

• Higher than average price point
• Made in Ireland
• Each dental stick is 76 calories

What Are Prebiotics for Dogs? 

As pet parents seek a healthier lifestyle for themselves, they also want to support the overall well-being of their four-legged family members. Not surprisingly, a need arose in the canine marketplace to address gut balance, flatulence, digestive upset, and conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. Enter prebiotics. 

The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics defines prebiotics as “a substrate that is selectively utilized by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit.” (3) Translated in simpler terms, prebiotics serve as a food source for good bacteria in your dog’s gut. This helps prevent nasty microorganisms from growing and thriving (1).

Manufacturers know dogs are individuals, so what works for your pup may not work for another. We’ve become savvier and more knowledgeable about what goes into our dogs’ bodies. Therefore, prebiotics are available in various forms, including:

• Powders
• Capsules
• Tablets
• Chewables
• Liquids
• Pastes

Apple and banana are high-fiber foods that are also good sources of prebiotics, but trying to work them into a dog’s diet can be difficult. Oftentimes, it’s easier and more effective to supplement with a well-researched, high-quality prebiotic that contains everything your dog needs.

Prebiotic vs Probiotic for Dogs

When comparing a prebiotic vs probiotic for dogs, remember that prebiotics help probiotics sustain themselves. “The difference between a probiotic and a prebiotic for dogs is that a probiotic adds to the beneficial bacteria to your dog’s gut and a prebiotic aids in maintaining them so they flourish within your dog’s stomach,” says veterinarian Dr. Brian Evans, clinical director of the pet telemedicine service Dutch.

When prebiotics work in tandem with probiotics for the overall good of your dog’s gut and immune system, a synbiotic relationship exists (4). For this reason, you’ll often see prebiotics paired with probiotics in many products. 

Prebiotics for Dogs: What to Look For

Because dietary supplements like prebiotics and probiotics are not as heavily regulated as medications, veterinarian-developed and veterinarian-recommended options are the right choice to ensure effectiveness and safety, Evans says.

When purchasing a prebiotic for your dog, consider the following:

• Does the product contain natural ingredients?
• Is the product veterinarian developed or recommended? 
• Is the product designed specifically for dogs? 
• Will it be easy to give to my dog?
• Did my veterinarian recommend or agree that I can give my dog this type of product?
• Has any third-party testing been done on the product?
• How should the product be stored?

Prebiotics for Dogs: Tips and Advice

Always store prebiotics as indicated on the manufacturer’s product label. Since many prebiotic products also contain probiotics, which are live microorganisms, they may need to be refrigerated. “It is important that pet owners store probiotics as directed to avoid killing off the bacteria and ruining its effectiveness,” Evans says. Prebiotics are more durable, so standalone products do not need to be refrigerated unless otherwise indicated by the manufacturer.

Never give your dog multiple prebiotic products at one time, as he can suffer a host of side effects, ranging from diarrhea to dehydration. It is best to start slow when adding anything new to your dog’s diet to ensure the product agrees with his system. 

Do not give your dog a prebiotic or probiotic intended for humans. The product you use should be specifically formulated for dogs.

Prebiotics can aid in your dog’s digestion so nutrients are better absorbed and his immune system can perform at its full potential. Always talk to your veterinarian if you notice any side effects or worrisome changes in your dog’s bowel movements or digestion.