Prebiotics vs Probiotics for Dogs: Benefits, Differences, and When to Use Them

Maintaining gut health isn’t just a trend for humans, it’s a vital aspect of your dog’s wellbeing too. From supporting immunity to aiding digestion and even influencing skin health, a balanced gut has wide-reaching effects.

But when it comes to supplements, many dog carers ask: what’s the difference between prebiotics and probiotics, and does your dog really need them? Let’s simplify the science.

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that help sustain a healthy gut microbiome. They support digestion, manage harmful microbes, and help balance the immune system.

For dogs, probiotics can:

• Improve stool quality

• Aid nutrient absorption

• Support immunity

• Ease digestive disturbances (for example, after antibiotics or stressful events)

Think of them as reinforcements, stepping in when gut balance is disrupted. Studies show that specific probiotic strains can improve stool consistency and reduce diarrhea in dogs, particularly after gastrointestinal upset or antibiotic use.

What Are Prebiotics? 

Prebiotics are indigestible fibres that feed the beneficial bacteria already present in your dog’s gut. In other words, they act as fertilisers for probiotics, helping them thrive.

Common prebiotics include:

• Chicory root (inulin)

• Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)

• Resistant starches and natural fibres
  

Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which play an essential role in digestion and immune regulation. Together, prebiotics and probiotics form symbiotic, a duo that supports long-term digestive and immune health.

What’s the Difference?

Probiotics: Live bacteria that replenish the gut.
Prebiotics: Fibre-based nourishment that supports existing gut bacteria.

Probiotics are especially useful after illness or disruption, while prebiotics are better for long-term balance. Probiotics are sensitive to storage and temperature, whereas prebiotics remain stable in food or supplements. Both are important, but they play distinct roles in maintaining a resilient microbiome.

Does Your Dog Need Them?

Most healthy dogs maintain a balanced gut microbiome naturally, especially when eating a complete, high-quality diet. However, prebiotics and probiotics may be particularly useful if your dog:

• Experiences digestive issues like gas, diarrhea, or constipation

• Is recovering from antibiotics or illness

• Has food sensitivities or allergies

• Experiences frequent stress (travel, loud environments, routine changes)

• Is switching diets or adjusting to new food

Research indicates that gut health influences immune responses and nutrient absorption, meaning targeted gut support can improve overall wellbeing and resilience.

How Omni Supports Gut Health

All Omni meals are nutritionally complete, allergy-friendly, and formulated with gut health in mind. They are rich in natural fibre, free from common animal allergens, and designed for optimal digestibility.

For dogs needing extra support, Omni’s Prebiotic & Probiotic Soft Chews offer a convenient daily solution. Vet-formulated, they:

• Support stool consistency

• Help reduce bloating and discomfort

• Promote a balanced gut microbiome

• Complement Omni’s food as part of a holistic daily routine

Studies also highlight that many canine allergies and sensitivities are linked to common animal proteins, which is why Omni avoids beef, chicken and dairy - instead using novel, hypoallergenic protein sources to support digestive balance and skin health.

Further evidence suggests that food-triggered allergic dermatitis and atopic conditions in dogs can improve with allergen-free, plant-based diets.

The Takeaway

Prebiotics and probiotics aren’t just trends,  they’re valuable tools for supporting your dog’s gut health. Used appropriately, they can enhance vitality, improve behaviour, and strengthen long-term wellbeing.

Explore Omni’s full range of gut-friendly meals and supplements, designed to nourish from the inside out and keep your dog feeling balanced, comfortable, and full of life.

Sources

• Baillon, M.-L.A., Marshall-Jones, Z.V., & Butterwick, R.F. (2004). Effects of probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus DSM13241 in healthy adult dogs. The Veterinary Journal. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2019.05.005

• Flickinger, E.A., et al. (2003). Inulin and oligofructose as prebiotics in canine nutrition. Small Ruminant Research. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smallrumres.2005.05.012

• AlShawaqfeh, M.K., et al. (2021). The role of gut microbiota in dog health: Current evidence and future perspectives. Animals (Basel). https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051292

• Mueller, R.S., Olivry, T., & Prélaud, P. (2016). Common food allergen sources in dogs and cats. BMC Veterinary Research. https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-016-0633-8

• Picco, F., et al. (2008). Canine atopic dermatitis and food-induced allergic dermatitis in Switzerland. Veterinary Dermatology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18477331/

• Olivry, T., & Mueller, R.S. (2017). Prevalence of cutaneous food reactions in dogs and cats. BMC Veterinary Research. https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-017-0973-z