In recent years, there’s been a growing understanding of the importance of gut health—not just for physical well-being, but also for mental health. This connection, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, is particularly relevant in both humans and dogs. A healthy gut can influence emotional balance, stress responses, and in turn overall behaviour. If your dog isn’t feeling great, they won’t behave well either. 

Can probiotics help your dog’s mental health?

Let’s dive into the science behind it and discover why probiotics should be a part of your dog’s routine.

The Gut-Brain Axis and Its Impact on Dogs

The gut-brain axis refers to the complex relationship between the digestive system and the brain. It is a bi-directional communication system, meaning that what happens in the gut can affect the brain and vice versa. In humans, probiotics have been shown to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, and research is starting to reveal similar effects in dogs.

Two groundbreaking studies stand out in this area:

1. A study published in the journal Veterinary Microbiology demonstrated that dogs fed with a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium exhibited reduced anxiety-related behaviours. The researchers concluded that improving the balance of gut bacteria could potentially reduce stress and anxiety in dogs.​​ (Cornell Vet Med).

2. Another study highlighted in Frontiers in Neuroscience explored how gut health affects dogs’ emotional states. It found that dogs with a healthier gut microbiome were less likely to experience behavioural problems such as fear and reactivity . (Frontiers).

This aligns with what we know about the gut-brain axis: when gut health improves, so does the emotional well-being. This is why I have made health and diet one of my 4 cornerstones of calmness, because without this part of your dog being healthy, we can’t progress any training. 

Probiotics and Stress Reduction

Specific probiotics, like Bifidobacterium longum BL999, have shown a direct link between gut health and mental well-being in dogs. In a study conducted on Labrador Retrievers, supplementing with this probiotic helped the dogs remain calmer during stressful situations, such as vet visits and exposure to loud noises. It reduced cortisol, a stress hormone, which in turn decreased anxious behaviours like barking, pacing, or shaking and is the main “baddie” when it comes to reactive behaviours too. (Purina Institute)

The idea is simple: a healthier gut can produce more “happy” chemicals like serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. Up to 90% of the body’s serotonin is produced in the digestive system, and probiotics can help to optimise its production.

Probiotic Foods for Dogs

In addition to supplements, certain foods naturally contain probiotics that can benefit your dog’s gut health. One fantastic option is fermented vegetables. Not only are they rich in probiotics, but they also provide essential nutrients that promote digestive health.

Below is a simple recipe for making fermented vegetables that are great for both you and your dog!

Homemade Fermented Vegetables for You and Your Dog

Fermented vegetables are not only beneficial for your dog’s gut, but they’re also a great addition to your diet as well! Here’s a simple recipe to make your own batch at home.

INGREDIENTS

• Fresh vegetables of your choice (e.g., carrots, cucumbers, or cabbage)
• Non-iodized salt (about 1 teaspoon per kilogram of vegetables)
• Optional: a capsule of probiotics to boost fermentation

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop or grate the vegetables to speed up the fermentation process. Place them in a bowl.
2. Add Salt: Sprinkle non-iodized salt over the vegetables, roughly a teaspoon per kilogram. The salt helps to draw out moisture, which is essential for fermentation.
3. Pound the Vegetables: Use a mortar, potato masher, or similar tool to pound the vegetables and release as much liquid as possible. This liquid will be used to cover the vegetables in the jar.
4. Rest: Cover the bowl with a towel and let the vegetables rest for about 30 minutes.
5. Sterilise the Jar: Boil a glass jar in water to sterilise it. Once sterilised, pack the vegetables into the jar, pouring the released liquid over the top to ensure the vegetables are submerged.
6. Pack Tightly: Press the vegetables down firmly to remove air pockets, ensuring they remain submerged under the liquid.
7. Ferment: Seal the jar but remember to “burp” it daily to release gases that build up during fermentation. Allow it to ferment in a dark place at room temperature for 5-7 days.
8. Mature: After a week, the vegetables should be tangy and fermented. Transfer the jar to the fridge, where it can continue maturing for 4-6 weeks, but you can enjoy them straight away. 

SERVING INSTRUCTIONS

For dogs:

Add a small spoonful of the fermented vegetables to their meals. Start slowly to monitor how they react. Add up to 10% of their daily diet. 

For humans:

Enjoy as a side dish or condiment!

Conclusion

Incorporating probiotics into your dog’s diet, whether through supplements or natural foods like fermented vegetables, can have a profound impact on their mental health. By supporting the gut-brain axis, you’re not only promoting better digestion, but also improving your dog’s emotional balance and stress resilience.

So why not give it a try? With a simple recipe for fermented veggies, you can provide your dog with a delicious and nutritious way to boost their gut health—and maybe even enjoy the benefits for yourself!

If you have any questions about probiotics or gut health for dogs, feel free to reach out!

Want more diet tips for your dog? Check out all my blog posts in this category here: Diet & Health