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Can dogs have Prebiotics (FOS, MOS)?

can dogs have prebiotics (fos, mos)Yes

Overview

dog-food-safety-information

Yes. Prebiotics such as FOS and MOS feed good gut bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, supporting digestion and immunity. They’re generally safe but may cause gas or diarrhea if given in excess. Always follow vet-recommended doses based on body weight.

Benefits

health-benefits
  • Prebiotics function as undigestible fiber substances which provide nourishment to beneficial gut bacteria to support a healthy gut microbiome. They work to build up the canine immune system
  • The prebiotics Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and Mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) serve as food for beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium
  • The FDA has designated FOS and MOS as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). The specific prebiotic MOS demonstrates effectiveness in blocking pathogenic bacteria E. coli from adhering to the gut.
  • Prebiotics taken as a supplement have proven to decrease stool odors while creating more regular bowel movements through better digestion and gut flora balance.

Risks

health-risks
  • Consuming excessive prebiotics can cause stomach problems for dogs. The introduction of prebiotics to an unprepared digestive system typically results in gas production, bloating, and loose stools.
  • Before adding prebiotics to your dog's diet, you should consult with a veterinarian especially if your dog suffers from IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) or SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).
  • The quality and quantity of FOS and MOS in pet food and supplements vary between different brands. The safety and effectiveness of these products depend on the consistency of their labelling and formulation methods.
health-risks-dog

Servings

serving-suggestions
  • Some commercial dog foods contain prebiotics FOS and MOS which serve as supplements. The exact amounts are typically based on proprietary formulation.
  • The recommended daily dose for FOS is 0.5–1 g per 10 kg of body weight and for MOS it is 0.1–0.3 g per 10 kg of body weight.

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