Do probiotic chews really work for dogs? We put them to the test
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Dog supplements are booming – but do they work? We tried Zesty Paws probiotic chews to see how they affect health, energy and digestion
A lot of us spend a small fortune on supplements - from probiotic drinks to vitamin tablets, we're always investing in our health and well-being.
Why shouldn't our pets reap the benefits too? That's the thinking behind the growing number of supplements aimed at dogs and cats.
But are they any good? That's what I've been trying to find out, by letting my dogs enjoy a packet of probiotic chews from Zesty Paws.
These vet-formulated "treats" are aimed at helping digestion, with ingredients to improve gut function, immune function, and something called gut flora balance.
Each of the 60 soft chews you get in a packet contains prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, and they're apparently "rich in pumpkin."
They certainly smell like they're rich in pumpkin. In fact, they smell amazing, and my dogs know when I've opened a bag for their daily dose.
I have two dogs, both a similar size, and they can both be fussy about treats, but they absolutely love these little soft heart-shaped chews. It's almost a shame they're only supposed to have one per day. Bigger dogs can have more, but the limits are based on their weights.
Zesty Paws says that, with consistent use, you should see results in 30 days, but I'm convinced I've seen a benefit sooner than that.
For example, my lazy cockapoo, Rupert, has definitely become more energetic. We recently took him up and down a large hill in the Peak District, and it's the sort of challenge he'd plod away at, but he was racing ahead of us all the way.
My more active dog, labradoodle Honey, has been struggling with weight fluctuations a bit in the last year or so, but it seems to have stabilised.
Rupert also has some benign lumps on his skin that have shrunk, the dogs both have a more predictable bowel routine now, and they also have nicer-smelling breath.
It's obvious, then, that supplements work. And they work in ways I didn't expect. I'll definitely be buying another pack.
A packet of 60 chews costs £24, but the reusable 90-chew pot is better value at just £29.95 - you even get free postage.
At the moment, there's a special offer on, which knocks a further 15% off the price if you use the code AUTUMN15 at the checkout.
To go through all the ingredients, and to see the other wellness supplements offered by Zesty Paws, click here.
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