Soft stools are a common problem in dogs, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. It is important to know how to feed your dog correctly when they have loose stools to firm up their poop and get them back on track. Fortunately, there are many natural stool solidifiers for dogs that can help with this issue. Here are the top five natural stool hardeners for dogs that you should consider if your pup is having digestive issues.
Our Top Picks:
#1 Well Loved Probiotics for Dogs
#2 PetLab Co. Probiotics for Dogs
#3 StrellaLab Dog Probiotics Treats for Picky Eaters
#4 Bark&Spark Dog Probiotics Chews
#5 Vet Promise Great Poop Probiotics for Dogs
Why Does My Dog Have Soft Stools?
Soft stools in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including dietary issues, stress or anxiety, certain diseases and parasites, and even just eating something they weren’t supposed to eat. If you suspect that your pup’s soft stool is due to any of these factors, it’s important to address it as soon as possible before it turns into a more serious health issue.
So, What’s The Solution?
Probiotics! Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help to restore balance in the gut, which can help with digestion and firm up stool. However, not all probiotics are created equal – some brands contain more effective strains of bacteria than others.
That’s why it’s important to choose a quality probiotic supplement for your pup that contains the right strain of bacteria for their specific needs. Our top picks are natural, veterinarian-recommended supplements that can help firm up your pup’s stool and restore balance in the gut. So, if your pup is having issues with soft stools, give one of these natural stool solidifiers a try!
#1 Well Loved Probiotics for Dogs
As a dog owner, it can be heartbreaking to see your furry friend suffer from digestive discomfort. That’s where Well Loved Probiotic chews come in! Made in the USA and vet-developed, these probiotic chews are packed with prebiotics and digestive enzymes to soothe your dog’s gut and provide relief from common digestive issues. Give your pup the gift of gut health and happier days with Well Loved Probiotics.
Main benefits: Relief from digestive issues, helps absorb nutrients for digestive & immune support.
Main Ingredients: Moisture 16.6% *alpha-Amylase (Aspergillus oryzae) 2,000 SKBU, Lipase 200 LU, Cellulase (Trichoderma longibrachiatum) 70 CMCU, Protease (Papaya) 20,000 PU, *Bacillus coagulans (Probiotic) 90 Million CFU.
Other Ingredients: Brewers Dried Yeast, Dried Potato Product, Glycerin, Flaxseed, Lecithin, Canola Oil, Calcium Sulfate, Fructooligosaccharides, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Rhizopus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum Fermentation Product, Papaya, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Natural Flavoring, Water. Tapioca Starch, Maltodextrin, Sorbic Acid (a preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Vegetable Oil.
Form: Chews.
Quantity per jar: 120 chews (10 Oz / 288g.)
One chew size: ~2.4 grams (perfect for smaller breeds.)
Crafted For: dogs of all breeds & sizes.
Flavors: Delicious.
Time to see the results: from a few days to weeks.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#2 PetLab Co. Probiotics for Dogs
Looking for a tasty way to help support your furry friend’s gut and digestive health? Look no further than PetLab Co.’s Probiotics for Dogs, which come in a delicious pork flavor that your canine companion is sure to love. Designed to help with everything from seasonal allergies to uncomfortable digestive issues, these soft chews are a convenient and easy way to give your pup the care they deserve. Whether you’re trying to address a specific issue or just want to keep your dog feeling healthy, PetLab Co.’s Probiotics for Dogs is an excellent choice. Just keep in mind that the packaging may vary, so don’t be surprised if it looks a little different than what you see online!
Main benefits: Promotes gut health, seasonal allergy support, encourages healthy yeast, and improve gut health.
Main Ingredients: A Proprietary Blend of (Bacillus coagulans, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Streptococcus thermophilus), Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo), Honey, Inulin (Agave), FOS – Fructooligosaccharides (Saccharum officinarum).
Other Ingredients: Ascorbic Acid, Cane Molasses, Coconut Glycerin, Dried Brewers Yeast, Dried Whey, Lecithin, Liquid Smoke Flavor, Mixed Tocopherols, Pork Gelatin, Salmon oil, Spray Dried Pork Liver, Tapioca Starch.
Form: Chews.
Quantity per jar: 30 chews (4.23 Oz / 120g.)
One chew size: 4 grams.
Crafted For: dogs of all breeds & sizes.
Flavors: Pork, Salmon.
Time to see the results: from a few days to weeks.
Buy directly from PetLabCo. website for extra benefits.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#3 StrellaLab Dog Probiotics Treats for Picky Eaters
Do you have a picky pup with a sensitive stomach? Fear not, Strellalab has got your furry friend covered with their delicious dog probiotic treats! Packed with digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and chewable fiber, these treats work magic on your pup’s tummy troubles. From allergies and diarrhea to gas and constipation, Strellalab has got your pup’s back when it comes to digestive relief. Plus, the added bonus of improved immunity makes these treats a no-brainer for any pet owner looking to keep their fur baby healthy and happy. Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? With Strellalab’s dog probiotics, even the pickiest eaters will be begging for more!
Main benefits: Reduces stomach discomfort, regulates digestion, improves the immune system, skin & coat support, and helps nutrient absorption.
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Seed, Calcium Sulfate, Fructooligosaccharides, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Rhizopus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum Fermentation Product, Papaya, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product.
Other Ingredients: Water, Bone Broth (Porcine), Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Tapioca Starch, Maltodextrin, Bacon Flavor, Sorbic Acid (a preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Vegetable Oil, Natural Flavoring, Brewers Dried Yeast, Dried Potato Product, Glycerin, Flaxseed, Canola Oil, Lecithin.
Form: Chews.
Quantity per jar: 120 soft chews (8.1 Oz / 230g.)
One chew size: 2 grams (perfect for smaller breeds.)
Crafted For: dogs of all breeds & sizes.
Flavors: Bacon, chicken.
Time to see the results: from a few days to weeks.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#4 Bark&Spark Dog Probiotics Chews
Oh, the joys of being a dog owner! With our furry friends constantly snacking on just about anything they can find, it’s no wonder they can sometimes have digestive issues. But fear not, fellow pet parents, Bark&Spark has got you covered with their Dog Probiotics Chews. With a blend of fiber, prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes, this supplement is the perfect stool solidifier for dogs who may be struggling in that department. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that it comes in a tasty chicken flavor — your pup will be begging for more!
Main benefits: Reduces stomach discomfort, digestive support, helps nutrient absorption, boosts the immune system.
Main Ingredients: Brewers Dried Yeast, Dried Potato Product, Glycerin, Flaxseed, Lecithin, Canola Oil, Calcium Sulfate, Fructooligosaccharides, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus niger Fermentation Solubles, Sorbic Acid (a preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Vegetable Oil, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum Fermentation Product, Papaya, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product.
Other Ingredients: Natural Flavoring, Water, Tapioca Starch, Maltodextrin.
Form: Chews.
Quantity per jar: (8.1 Oz / 230g).
One chew size: 2 grams (perfect for smaller breeds.)
Crafted For: dogs of all breeds & sizes.
Flavors: Chicken, bacon.
Time to see the results: from a few days to weeks.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#5 Vet Promise Great Poop Probiotics for Dogs
We all know that keeping our furry friends’ digestive systems healthy is super important for their overall wellness. That’s where Vet Promise’s Stool Solidifier for Dogs comes in handy. With 6 different probiotics and digestive enzymes, these little chews are like a party for your pup’s gut. Not only will they help firm up loose stool and provide relief from diarrhea, but they’ll also promote a consistently healthy gut. Who knew that something as simple as a supplement could make such a big difference? Keep those tails wagging and those stools solid with Vet Promise.
Main benefits: Helps with stool quality, supports a healthy gut, keeps a healthy microflora, reduces diarrhea, and supports nutrient absorption.
Main Ingredients: Flax Seed Powder, Pumpkin Powder, Bromelain, Enzyme Fungal Pancreatin 4x, Prebiotic Inulin & 6 Strains Probiotic Blend (L.Plantarum, L.Acidophilusm, L.Casei, B.Bifidum, L.Lactis, L.Fermentum).
Other Ingredients: Glycerin, Tapioca starch, Pea flour, Molasses, Gelatin, Natural flavor, Lecithin, Cultured dextrose, Sunflower oil, Salt, Apple cider vinegar, Natural AOX.
Form: Chews.
Quantity per jar: 120 chews (9 Oz / 255g.)
One chew size: 2 grams (perfect for smaller breeds.)
Crafted For: dogs of all breeds & sizes.
Flavors: Chicken.
Time to see the results: from a few days to weeks.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How Did We Choose The Top 5?
We chose these 5 probiotics for dogs based on their quality, ingredients, customer reviews, and price points. All of the products featured have 87% or higher customer ratings & contain premium ingredients that are safe and effective. Furthermore, each product provides different benefits to support your pup’s digestive health & general wellness — from increasing immunity to relieving digestion issues. Lastly, we chose products that are affordably priced so you don’t have to break the bank while keeping your pup healthy. So no matter which product you choose, you can feel confident knowing your pup is getting the best probiotics for their needs. And of course, it goes without saying that for the final and most strict test, we give them to our pets. We wouldn’t put them on the list if we weren’t sure that they work for them.
Why Might My Pet Have Digestive Discomfort?
There are several reasons why pets might have digestive discomfort including dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t have), parasites (such as roundworms), infections (such as salmonella), viral infections (such as parvovirus), allergies/intolerances (to certain foods), stress/anxiety, changes environment, etc. It’s important to keep an eye out for any signs or symptoms associated with these conditions such as possible vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, etc. If you suspect any of these conditions may present then contact a veterinarian right away and get a proper diagnosis treatment plan in place!
What Are Some Other Ways To Help Firm Up My Dog’s Poop?
In addition, by using natural stool solidifiers like those mentioned above, there few other ways pet owners can help firm their dog’s poop!
- Pumpkin: There’s a reason why pumpkin is on almost every list of foods to feed your dog. Not only is it nutritious, but it also has the bonus of being a natural stool solidifier. Pumpkin is rich in fiber which can help bulk up your dog’s stool and also soothe their upset stomach. You can simply cook and puree fresh pumpkin yourself. Just make sure to feed your dog plain pumpkin without any added sugars or spices.
- Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are another nutritious and delicious option that can help firm up your dog’s stool. They are packed with vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A and beta-carotene, which can support your dog’s immune system. You can cook and mash sweet potatoes and add them to your dog’s meal or give them a slice as a healthy, low-fat treat.
- White rice: White rice is a bland but effective food that can help your dog’s digestion. It is easy to digest and can help absorb excess water in your dog’s stool, making it more solid and easier to pick up. You can either cook white rice and add it to your dog’s meal or feed it alone as a simple snack.
- Greek yogurt: Yogurt is a popular probiotic food that can help support your dog’s digestive system. Greek yogurt, in particular, is a great option because it is high in protein and low in fat. The active cultures in Greek yogurt can help prevent diarrhea and ease your dog’s upset stomach. However, be sure to stick to plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt as added sugars can upset your dog’s stomach.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil is a natural anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial agent that can help soothe your dog’s digestive system. It can also add moisture to your dog’s loose stools, helping to firm it up. However, it is important to introduce coconut oil slowly and in small amounts to your dog’s diet to avoid any upset stomachs. You can mix a teaspoon of coconut oil into your dog’s meal or give it to them as a treat.
FAQs About Dog Stool Hardeners
What types of food can improve my dog’s digestive health?
Many dog food manufacturers use natural ingredients like sweet potato and boiled potatoes that are beneficial for a dog’s digestion. Fiber intake from these foods can also aid digestion.
Why is my dog’s stool so soft, and how can I firm up my dog’s bowel movements?
Soft stools or loose stools can indicate that your dog’s diet is not optimal or that there’s an issue with the dog’s gut. A stool hardener for dogs might help, as can foods like canned pumpkin, which naturally harden the loose stools.
What are the signs of good digestive health in dogs?
Firm stools, healthy weight, and a lack of digestive issues like loose stool or diarrhea are signs of good digestive health. If you observe perfect dog poop, it indicates your dog’s digestive tract is functioning optimally.
What should I feed my dog if it has diarrhea or other gastrointestinal issues?
Some specific foods, like boiled potatoes, and sweet potato, can help with dog diarrhea. A stool hardener might also be beneficial. Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water to maintain electrolyte balance.
How can I improve my dog’s gut health?
The gut flora can be improved by a diet rich in soluble fiber and digestible protein. Some specific foods can aid digestion and enhance overall gut health. Small quantities of human food like boiled rice can also be beneficial.
What are some common health problems that can affect a dog’s digestion?
Conditions like liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and bacterial infections can impact a dog’s digestive health. Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy diet can prevent many of these issues.
How does the type of food I give my dog impact their digestive health?
Fatty foods, spoiled food, or processed foods can be hard on your dog’s tummy, leading to loose stools, or even diarrhea. On the other hand, a high-protein diet or foods with natural ingredients can support your dog’s digestive health.
What could be the reason for my dog’s persistent diarrhea?
Persistent diarrhea in dogs can be due to many reasons. It could be a sign of an imbalanced diet, bacterial infections, or health problems like garbage gut, liver disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. If your dog’s diarrhea persists, it’s best to consult with a vet.
What is the role of good bacteria and digestive enzymes in my dog’s gut health?
Good bacteria in the dog’s gut are crucial for digestion. They help break down food and absorb nutrients. Digestive enzymes, including salivary enzymes, also play a key role in breaking down food particles for absorption.
Can a change in diet improve my dog’s digestive issues?
Yes, transitioning your dog to a new diet gradually, especially one that’s rich in fiber and natural ingredients, can alleviate many digestive issues. It’s also important to avoid certain foods that your dog may be allergic to, as food allergies can cause digestive problems.
For more natural products for dogs check out our 10 Eco-Friendly Zero Waste Dog Toys That Won’t Hurt The Planet.
Anna Miller is a content manager at TrashBackwards. She’s passionate about living a zero-waste lifestyle. Anna has been writing about eco-friendly tips for years now, and she’s got some great ideas on how you can go plastic-free! She loves sharing her knowledge about eco-lifestyle with others. Her articles are always witty and insightful! Shoot her a message if you’ve got any questions about how you can start going green.
