If you're a dog owner, you know that one of the most frustrating and heartbreaking things to witness is your furry friend suffering from incessant itching. From allergies to skin conditions, your dog can be itching for many reasons.
Probiotics have gained popularity as a potential solution for addressing various health issues in dogs, including itch relief. But the question remains: Do probiotics actually work to provide itch relief for dogs?
Let's delve into this topic and find out.
Why Is My Dog Itching?
Before we look at the potential benefits of dog probiotics for itching and skin issues, it's crucial to understand the root causes of itching, often referred to as pruritus, in our canine companions.
According to American Kennel Club, common reasons for itching in dogs include:
- Allergies: Food allergies, environmental allergies, and seasonal allergies can trigger itching in dogs. Pollen and dust in the air, or even contact with certain soaps, perfumes, and detergents, can trigger reactions.
- Skin infections: Bacterial or fungal infections, such as ringworm, can lead to itching and discomfort. Dogs can easily pick these types of things up at boarding facilities, dog parks, and doggy daycares.
- Dry skin: Insufficient moisture, especially during the dry winter season, can cause irritation and itching.
- Parasites: External parasites like fleas and mites can irritate a dog's skin, resulting in scratching.
Along with your dog itching at their ears, nose, butt, or stomach, you may also notice some other issues. Hair loss, redness, and hot spots often go hand-in-hand with itching.
How Probiotics Can Support Skin Health
Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for your dog's health, primarily aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut microbiome can have far-reaching effects on your dog's overall well-being, including its skin health.
Here's how probiotics might help alleviate itching:
Immune System Support
Research shows that “your dog’s gastrointestinal tract contains about 70% of their immune system.” Probiotics have been shown to help improve the gut microbiome and support the immune system. A stronger immune system makes your pet more resilient to allergies and infections that might trigger your dog’s itching.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Certain probiotic strains have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing skin inflammation can help minimize the associated itching.
Reduced Stress
Probiotics may help alleviate stress and anxiety in dogs, which can be a factor in some skin conditions. Research has shown that up to “70% of behavioral issues in dogs can be attributed to anxiety” — and balancing your gut-microbiome can improve the gut-brain connection and reduce that anxiety.
Choosing the Right Probiotic Itch Relief Supplement For Your Pet
Not all probiotics are created equal. Maya Pet, the world’s first anthrobiotic, goes beyond a typical pet probiotic in numerous ways.
Minimal additives
Many probiotics have added ingredients to boost flavor or freshness. Unfortunately, many of these additives can make digestive and skin issues worse.
Maya Pet is as natural as possible to minimize any chance of complications or side effects. It contains organic sprouted whole wheat and various types of beneficial bacteria.
Maya Pet is also non-GMO, dairy-free, nut-free, dye-free, and egg-free.
Bacteria Strains
Look for probiotic supplements containing a variety of strains. Maya Pet has 10 Smart StrainsTM of good bacteria to help your pet’s digestion, immune system, and overall wellness.
Strains in Maya Pet are:
We sort our strains into four main categories — enhancers, managers, inhibitors, and communicators. Enhancers boost the gut microbiome and improve digestion; managers target gut acid; inhibitors block unwanted pathogens; and communicators boost the connection between the gut and the brain.
Easy to Consume
For best results, probiotics need to be a consistent part of your dog's daily routine. That becomes more difficult when your dog is resistant to taking the supplement.
Maya Pet comes in a convenient powder form that is easy to add to your pet’s normal food. Just sprinkle it over kibble or mix it in with wet food. This removes the stress of trying to get a picky, anxious dog to swallow a pill.
Start Your Pet’s Journey to Better Health Today
Probiotics have shown potential in helping to relieve itching in dogs, primarily by improving gut health, boosting the immune system, and reducing inflammation.
Combining Maya Pet with a holistic approach to your dog's health, including proper nutrition, regular grooming, and a clean living environment, can help you provide itch relief for your furry friend.
