Your dog is what he eats. A balanced diet rich in nutrients is important for healthy bodily functions. However, to ensure extra care for your dog, you need to keep an eye on his gut problems. Stomach bugs are most common among dogs, especially those who attend boarding or socialize with other dogs frequently. Usually, these bugs have mild infectivity and a healthy immune system can fight them off. However, if your dog’s gut health is disturbed, it can lead to frequent diarrheas and upset stomach.
What Are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are large insoluble molecules that can be fermented by bacteria residing in the dog’s gut. These bacteria are commonly referred to as “microbiota” and prebiotics are their food. Commensal bacteria are responsible for:
- Absorption of nutrients in the gut
- Strengthening the immune system
- Boosting energy levels
- Preventing harmful bacterial infections by competing with pathogens
Many stomach problems occur simply due to a disturbance in the population density of these bacteria. When their colonization diminishes, opportunistic pathogens take advantage of the situation. Prebiotics feed these bacteria and help them grow. This not only reduces the chances of infection but also enhances the absorption of beneficial nutrients. You can supplement the regular diet of your furry friend with prebiotics such as lactobacillus fermentum to improve gut function.
