Effects of Postbiotic Administration on Canine Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2025, Microorganisms)
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Benefits claimed: Postbiotics improve gut microbiota composition by increasing beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium) and reducing pathogenic ones (e.g., E. coli, Streptococcus); modulate immune responses with higher CD4+:CD8+ T-cell ratios, increased IgE/IgA, and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1); reduce oxidative stress via elevated superoxide dismutase and catalase; and aid in treating chronic conditions like atopic dermatitis, with lowered intestinal pH and increased propionate for antimicrobial effects, though meta-analyses showed no statistical significance due to study limitations.
A new combination of a prebiotic and postbiotic mitigates immunosenescence in vaccinated healthy senior dogs (2024, Frontiers in Veterinary Science)
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Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1392985/full
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Benefits claimed: Postbiotics (combined with scFOS) decrease total serum IgA concentrations, potentially shifting to local IgA responses for better mucosal immunity; increase CD4+:CD8+ T-cell ratios to mitigate immunosenescence in senior dogs; and support immune function during challenges like vaccination, with no adverse effects on blood counts or cytokines, aiding overall health in aging canines.
Lactobacillus helveticus: importance in food and health (2014, Frontiers in Microbiology)
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Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2014.00338/full
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Benefits claimed: L. helveticus produces bioactive peptides and bacteriocins, exerts synbiotic effects with prebiotics in fermented products, and has health-promoting properties like proteolysis and lipolysis; it is highlighted for potential in pet food to improve gut health and overall wellness in animals, including dogs.