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7 Best Digestive Enzyme Supplements For Dogs

Written by: Molly Weinfurter
Molly Weinfurter is a writer for iHeartDogs, and she’s passionate about helping animals in need. She volunteers for Bailing Out Benji and a local dog rescue.Read more
| Published on September 7, 2023

Reviewed by: Dr. Theresa Fossum

Reviewed by:

Dr. Theresa Fossum

Meet Dr. Theresa (Terry) W. Fossum, DVM, MS. Ph.D., Diplomate ACVS – a remarkable animal lover whose passion for animal care and innovative solutions has left an indelible mark on the veterinary world. As the CEO of both Phoenix Animal Wellness and Epic Veterinary Specialists, she's ensuring dogs and cats receive the highest level of care and compassion.Read more
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The best digestive enzyme supplements for dogs can ensure your dog has a healthy tummy, allowing them to be happier and more playful. Digestive enzymes are important for your dog’s health because they make sure the gut is functioning perfectly. Sometimes a healthy diet may not be enough to prevent stinky gas and loose stools. So, that’s where digestive enzyme supplements for dogs come in. 

Like humans, pets also have natural digestive enzymes that help them break down their food and digest it better. However, sometimes dogs need additional enzymes if theirs aren’t working properly or if your dog is facing pancreatic issues. There are specific digestive enzyme supplements for dogs, so here is a list of the best ones available.

Happy Golden Retriever

Best Digestive Enzyme Supplements for Dogs

1. Zesty Paws Probiotic for Dogs

Zesty Paws Digestive Enzyme Bites

Zesty Paws is a popular brand for pet supplements. Their probiotic bites are a great choice to give your pup excellent gut health. With a delicious pumpkin flavor, these soft chews hold all the vital ingredients that are needed for a healthy functioning digestive system. Natural ingredients like papaya, pumpkin, and flaxseed are present in these supplements to prevent your dog’s stomach issues. 

This formula uses six probiotics, including Bacillus subtilis. Not only are these an excellent choice for gut health but they can also support your pup’s immune system, help with their digestion process, and improve their skin. Additionally, the chews are easy to take and have quick results by reducing most of the symptoms within weeks of use.

Pros

  • Soft, tasty chews
  • Includes pumpkin as a natural enzyme
  • Free from artificial flavors and preservatives
  • Provides quick results
  • You can get 20% off your order if you sign up for Zesty Paws’ emails and texts

Cons

  • Supplements can be crumbly

2. Vetnique Labs Glandex

Dog digestive enzyme anal gland supplements

Tired of runny poop and smelly gas? These chews by Glandex are a solution that won’t break the bank. These supplements can improve your pet’s digestive health by emptying their anal glands. They include a healthy blend of digestive enzymes, probiotics, and prebiotics that support your dog’s immune system and regulate their gut health.

Additionally, these supplements include high-quality, natural elements like pumpkin, pineapple, flaxseed, and apples. All have proven to be beneficial for a healthy functioning digestive system. This product comes in the form of soft peanut butter chews so you can serve them as a treat. It’s suitable for all dogs of all ages.

Pros

  • Vet-recommended
  • Supports healthy anal glands
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Soft, flavorful chews

Cons

  • May cause vomiting

 

3. TummyWorks Probiotic Soft Chews for Dogs

TummyWorks digestive enzyme

An upset stomach can lead to other problems for pets. If your dog is facing troubles with their tummy then their digestive system might need some help. The TummyWorks probiotic soft chews are what can get the job done. These supplements are rich in digestive enzymes, probiotics, and prebiotics. So, they will not only improve your pet’s gut health but can also encourage healthy skin and good oral health.  

These supplements work effectively against issues like diarrhea, foul-smelling gas, burping, and other stomach problems. Not only do these have an irresistible chicken taste but also an enticing smell that will make your pup come running for them. The supplements are soft and chewable like treats. They’re suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages.

Pros

  • Delectable chicken flavor
  • Soft, treat-like supplements
  • Works well for dogs of all ages and breeds
  • Improves skin and offers a healthier coat

Cons

  • Product’s texture isn’t always consistent

4. Nutri-Vet Pre and Probiotic Soft Chews for Dogs

Nutri-Vet Digestive Enzyme Supplements

Nutri-Vet has made these pre and probiotic supplements with the help of vets to eliminate your pup’s tummy issues. With a tempting cheese and liver flavor, these soft chews will seem like treats to most dogs. You can give them to your pet by including them in their meals or serving them directly.

The formula contains dietary fiber and over a billion microorganisms that regulate and support the gut health of your dog by improving their digestive system. It includes all the vital prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes that are needed for proper digestion. When your dog takes these supplements, they can experience less burping, gas, and loose stools. Plus, the supplements are soft enough for dogs of all ages to chew.

Pros

  • Easy to serve to pets
  • Cheese and liver flavor
  • Rich in probiotics and prebiotics
  • Supports a healthy immune system

Cons

  • May arrive with faulty packaging

 

5. NaturVet Advanced Probiotics and Enzymes Supplement

NaturVet Dog Probiotics and Enzymes

Sometimes your dog’s natural digestive enzymes stop working properly or maybe your dog is swallowing their food too quickly. For such instances, NaturVet has developed probiotics and enzyme supplements that will treat your dog’s gut properly. They help with breaking down food when your dog’s natural enzymes fail to do the job. Whether you have a small puppy with a sensitive tummy or a senior dog with digestive issues, the NaturVet supplement can help.

Related: 7 Best Prebiotic Supplements for Dogs

Formulated with the help of vets, these supplements contain the top enzymes responsible for a healthy digestive system. Amylase, lipase, PB6 probiotic, cellulase, and papaya are some of the major ingredients present in these soft chews. All the ingredients are of the highest quality and have an appetizing flavor that your dog will love. These soft treats can be served directly like treats.

Pros

  • High-quality ingredients
  • Soft, tasty chews
  • Vet-formulated
  • Packed with probiotics and enzymes

Cons

  • Supplements may be crumbly

6. iHeartDogs 3-In-1 Probiotic Dog Chews

iHeartDogs digestive enzyme

iHeartDogs takes the health of your dog to its heart. They plan and develop products for your pet that can boost their health in many ways. Their 3-in-1 daily probiotic is just what you need to fight your pet’s digestive issues. These soft chews are responsible for supporting your pup’s immune system, treating digestive enzyme deficiency, and fighting symptoms like diarrhea, burping, and stomach discomfort.

These soft chews are easily digestible, and the delectable flavor will make your pup want more. You can add these to your dog’s meals or give them as treats. They include the best digestive ingredients like pumpkin, papaya, probiotics, Bacillus coagulans, and digestive enzymes (like papain and bromelain), so these supplements will do wonders for your dog’s upset stomach. This product is made in the USA, and every bag purchased donates 12 healthy meals to shelter dogs.

Pros

  • Packed with probiotics, digestive enzymes, and other beneficial ingredients
  • Improves the immune system
  • Rich in vitamins and minerals
  • Soft, flavorful chews
  • Donates meals to shelter dogs

Cons

  • May be hard for some dogs to chew

7. Vet’s Best Probiotic Soft Chews Dog Supplement

Vet's Best Dog Probiotic Supplements

Veterinarians have developed these supplements to make sure your dog stays healthy, fit, and playful. These probiotic supplements reduce the occurrence of loose stools, stinky gas, and frequent burping. They contain no artificial flavors, wheat, or gluten that may further disrupt your pet’s stomach. Their main purpose is to improve your dog’s gut health.

These chews are easily digested because they’re infused with ocean kelp, a natural source of antioxidants and prebiotics. They’re not only great for stomach health but also support the immune system and oral hygiene. With a tempting chicken flavor, even picky eaters may crave these soft chews, and the additional antioxidants present will promote the good overall health of your pet.

Pros

  • Soft, flavorful chews
  • Made by veterinarians
  • Includes natural sources of antioxidants, probiotics, and prebiotics
  • Free from artificial ingredients

Cons

  • Some dogs may dislike the flavor

 

Things To Consider

Ingredients to Look for

Digestive enzyme supplements are made to improve the digestive system and overall gut health. So, they contain ingredients like probiotics and prebiotics to support digestion. Most digestive enzymes for dogs also include natural ingredients like pumpkin or leafy greens, vitamins like B12, and major enzymes like amylases, proteases, and lipases.

What to Avoid

Even though digestive enzyme supplements may not contain any harmful ingredients, your dog could still have allergic reactions. Avoid artificial ingredients or anything that might upset your dog’s stomach, such as wheat or soy. It’s best to consult your vet before introducing any supplements to your dog, especially if your pup has sensitivities.

Stop using the product immediately if your dog faces any side effects, like vomiting or diarrhea. Additionally, you shouldn’t be giving supplements to your dog if they don’t need them. If your pet is not facing any digestive issues, a digestive enzyme supplement likely won’t benefit them.

Forms of Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzyme supplements for dogs come in various forms. The most common are soft chews, which could also come in powder, pill, or liquid form. Some foods rich in digestive enzymes are papaya, pumpkin, pineapple, apple cider vinegar, and leafy greens. So, you can serve those foods plain to your dog or use a supplement that includes them.

Supplements are best given with food, but some are so flavorful that dogs will eat them as treats. Most supplements only need to be given once daily but talk to your vet for the best dosage.

German Shepherd running with stick

FAQs

Are digestive enzymes good for dogs?

Yes, digestive enzyme supplements benefit your dog’s health if they face gut issues. These supplements can regulate healthy bowel movements and improve digestive health in pets. They may also reduce stool eating in dogs.

Related: 12 Best Stool Eating Deterrents For Dogs

What are the side effects of digestive enzymes in dogs?

Although digestive enzyme supplements are usually safe for dogs, you shouldn’t give them to your dog unless necessary. They may contain some side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and in extreme cases, mouth ulcers. Dogs with sensitive stomachs should start with a smaller-than-normal dose to reduce the risk of side effects. If your dog has unusual symptoms, immediately stop serving the supplements and consult your vet.

What are the health benefits of digestive enzymes for dogs?

Digestive enzymes are known to fix digestive and gut issues. They reduce burping and farting while also regulating healthy bowel movements. Other than that, digestive enzymes are also helpful in supporting the immune system, promoting healthy cell development, promoting healthier skin and coat, reducing bad breath, and removing toxins from the body.

What are the symptoms of digestive enzyme deficiency in dogs?

Your dog may need digestive enzyme supplements if you are seeing symptoms like:

  • Loose stools
  • Excessive burping
  • Foul-smelling gas
  • Digestion difficulties
  • Stomach discomfort
  • Eating unusual items like their stool

Related: 11 Best Urinary, Kidney, & Bladder Supplements for Dogs

Dog resting on human bed

Takeaway

If you’re noticing some visible changes in your dog’s stool or they’re passing stinky gas, their gut health may be at risk. This may happen because their digestive enzymes aren’t working properly or sufficient. To remedy this, you will need to give them digestive enzyme supplements.

These supplements can help reduce stomach discomfort and symptoms of digestive enzyme deficiency, such as gas and loose stools. Digestive enzyme supplements for dogs are rich in probiotics and prebiotics that can regulate and improve the digestive system. So, they could be the key to helping your pup feel more comfortable!

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