Probiotics for dogs on or after antibiotics
Updated 7 November 2026. 4 minute read.
Short answer: Antibiotics can upset the friendly bacteria in your dog's gut and cause loose stools. Vets often suggest a probiotic alongside or after the course. Give it a few hours apart from the antibiotic, keep going for at least a week after the course ends, and finish the antibiotics as prescribed.
Why antibiotics upset the tummy
Antibiotics kill the bacteria causing an infection, but they can't tell those apart from the helpful bacteria living in the gut. When that balance is knocked, some dogs get soft stools, wind or a gurgling tummy.
The PDSA lists diarrhoea after antibiotics as one of the main reasons vets recommend probiotics for dogs.
When to give it
Give the probiotic a few hours apart from each antibiotic dose. Many owners give the antibiotic with breakfast and dinner and the probiotic at lunchtime, so the antibiotic doesn't simply kill off the probiotic bacteria.
Keep giving the probiotic for at least a week after the antibiotic course finishes, while the gut settles. Always finish the full antibiotic course your vet prescribed, even if the tummy is upset. Call the vet instead of stopping early.
What to look for in a probiotic
Several strains rather than one, a stated number of live cultures (CFU) per daily portion, and ideally a prebiotic fibre such as inulin that feeds the good bacteria. A chewable tablet your dog will take as a treat makes a week or two of daily dosing much easier.
When to call the vet
If there's blood in the stools, repeated vomiting, your dog is off their food or flat, the diarrhoea lasts more than 48 hours, or it's a puppy or elderly dog. Your vet may want to change the antibiotic.
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Common questions
Can I give my dog a probiotic while on antibiotics?
Yes, most vets are happy with this. Give it a few hours apart from the antibiotic dose, and tell your vet what you're using.
How long should a dog take probiotics after antibiotics?
At least a week after the course ends is a common approach, and longer if the stools are still settling.
Are probiotics safe for dogs?
The PDSA describes them as very safe and extremely unlikely to cause side effects.
Can I use yoghurt instead?
Yoghurt contains far fewer live bacteria than a dog probiotic, and some dogs don't tolerate dairy. A dog-specific product is a better choice.
This page is general advice, not a diagnosis. If you're worried about your dog, speak to your vet.
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