Amy Thompson
With problems like leaky gut on the rise, gut health has become increasingly important for your dog, leading many holistic vets to recommend probiotics for dogs. But with so many probiotic supplements available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
One type of probiotic stands out for its unique properties: soil-based probiotics. These probiotics, derived from soil-based organisms, offer specific health benefits that other probiotics may not provide, like immune and gut function support.
Below, we'll walk you through the benefits of soil-based probiotics for dogs and why they're a valuable addition to your pup's health regimen.
What Are Soil-Based Probiotics?
Soil-based probiotics are derived from soil-based organisms (SBOs), which are naturally found in soil and water. These beneficial bacteria play a crucial role in supporting plants by breaking down organic material, fighting harmful pathogens, and providing essential vitamins.
Historically, SBOs were a regular part of our diet through unwashed vegetables and unprocessed meats. However, modern agricultural practices and food processing have significantly reduced our exposure to these beneficial organisms.
For dogs, soil-based probiotics can be an excellent addition. Dogs naturally interact with soil by digging, rolling in the dirt, and sometimes even eating it. These activities may be instinctual behaviors to help them maintain a normal balance of gut bacteria. By adding soil-based probiotics, you can help ensure your dog receives the benefits of these important microorganisms.
The most common beneficial bacteria found in soil-based probiotics are Bacillus species. These strains have been shown to support the microbiomes of both humans and animals effectively.
Top 9 Reasons Dogs Need Soil-Based Probiotics
1. Support A Gut Back To Normal
Maintaining gut health is crucial for overall well-being, and it's no different for dogs. Soil-based probiotics provide powerful support for your dog's microbiome—the diverse community of beneficial bacteria in their gut.
These probiotics help support proper gut function by building strong bacterial colonies that are vital for a robust immune system. Approximately 90% of your dog's immune system resides in her gut, making it essential to support it with beneficial bacteria from soil-based probiotics.
Beneficial bacteria in soil-based probiotics help manage the balance of the gut microbiome, supporting a normal response to various environmental and dietary challenges.
2. Manage SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when bacteria spread to the small intestine, leading to digestive issues. Soil-based probiotics are particularly effective for supporting dogs with SIBO because they contain spore-forming bacteria.
These bacteria have a protective shell that allows them to survive the journey through the digestive system and reach the colon without feeding the bacteria in the small intestine, which can worsen SIBO symptoms. This makes soil-based probiotics ideal for supporting dogs with SIBO.
3. Support Brain Health
The connection between gut health and brain health is well-documented, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. Studies show that a normal gut microbiome can positively impact brain function.
Bacillus species in soil-based probiotics produce beneficial compounds that support brain health and cognitive function. By supporting your dog's gut health with soil-based probiotics, you can also promote better behavior and mental well-being.
4. Support The Immune System
Soil-based probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced immune system.
Bacillus strains, in particular, offer several benefits, including supporting the production of antibodies and promoting a supportive response to environmental challenges.
These probiotics can be especially helpful during times of stress, such as travel or competitions, to help maintain a balanced and resilient immune system.
5. Help Support A Normal Microbial Balance
Beneficial bacteria in soil-based probiotics can also help support the balance of the gut microbiome, supporting a normal response to various environmental and dietary challenges.
Soil-based probiotics can be particularly effective for dogs who have undergone treatments that disrupt their gut flora, such as antibiotics, by helping to restore and maintain microbial balance.
6. Support Normal Inflammatory Responses
Maintaining a normal inflammatory response is vital for your dog's overall health. Soil-based probiotics support a normal inflammatory response by promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
This balance helps the body respond appropriately to environmental stressors. Soil-based probiotics contain Bacillus strains that support a normal response to inflammation, ensuring your dog's body can manage stressors effectively and maintain optimal health.
7. Promote Healthy Skin and Coat
A healthy gut contributes to a normal skin and coat in dogs. Soil-based probiotics help maintain the balance of good bacteria in your dog's gut, which in turn supports skin health. A well-balanced gut microbiome can help manage seasonal or environmental skin issues, leading to a shiny coat and less itching.
In other words, including soil-based probiotics can promote a great, lustrous coat by supporting the gut-skin connection.
8. Support Nutrient Absorption
Proper nutrient absorption is essential for your dog's overall health and vitality, and for joint and muscle health. Soil-based probiotics support the absorption of nutrients from your dog's food by promoting a normal gut environment. This ensures that your dog gets the most benefit, supporting their energy levels and overall well-being.
By giving soil-based probiotics to your dog, you can help improve nutrient absorption and ensure she gets the full benefits of her food.
9. Support Normal Digestion
Digestive health is a key component of overall wellness for dogs. Soil-based probiotics support normal digestion by helping to maintain a balanced gut microbiome. This can help support common digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. A normal gut leads to smoother digestion and better nutrient absorption.
Giving soil-based probiotics to your dog can promote normal digestion and contribute to her overall comfort and happiness.
Sustainable Sourcing and Quality
When choosing soil-based probiotics for your dog, it's important to select products that are sustainably sourced and of high quality. Look for probiotics that use organic ingredients and avoid unnecessary fillers. This ensures that your dog receives the best possible support for their health without any unwanted additives.
Final Thoughts
Soil-based probiotics offer a range of benefits for your dog's health, from supporting a normal gut and immune system to promoting normal skin and nutrient absorption.
By choosing high-quality, sustainably sourced probiotics, you can provide your dog with the best possible support for her overall well-being.
Bottom line? Incorporating soil-based probiotics into your dog's day is a simple and effective way to help her thrive and maintain optimal health!
FAQ
Are soil-based probiotics good for dogs? Soil-based probiotics are beneficial for dogs as they help maintain normal dogs' guts by balancing good bacteria and supporting gut function.
Do soil-based probiotics work? Yes, soil-based probiotics work effectively by resisting stomach acids, reaching the colon intact, and supporting normal brain function and overall gut health.
What is the best soil-based probiotic? The best soil-based probiotic should include strains like Bacillus and probiotic yeast, known for their ability to support gut health and promote healthier skin.
What foods are soil-based probiotics? Foods that contain soil-based probiotics include those with added Bacillus strains and fulvic acid, which are essential to support dogs' gut function and overall health.
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