Summer is prime time for pet adventures. Fur-baby parents are taking their pets to the park, on beach outings, and to backyard playdates. Everybody is suddenly in a go-go mode and that makes it time to think about pet nutrition.

Unfortunately, while pet parents are having more fun, summer can be very challenging for pets. Heatstroke, dehydration, sunburns, exposure to harmful substances, and general summertime stress can all disrupt digestive systems, posing risks that are often overlooked. 

In fact, a 2024 study in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that 30 percent of dogs experience digestive upset during warmer months due to heat stress or dietary changes. What’s more, pet parents can count cats, rabbits, and other critters among those silently suffering. 

While many problems can be traced to sharing human food, such as barbecue scraps or foodstuffs with toxins like xylitol (deadly to dogs), most solutions are proactive. By making sure your pet’s diet is balanced, they’ll be less prone to any such changes.

According to a 2025 American Pet Products Association survey, 72 percent of dog owners reported prioritizing premium pet nutrition, focusing on functional ingredients such as probiotics and organics. These trends reflect a growing awareness of how diet can enhance any pet’s quality of life, especially in summer. So let’s focus on dogs!  

What probiotics are good for dogs? 

Probiotics are live microorganisms, also known as “good bacteria.” They promote a healthy gut microbiome — something to consider for people as well as pets. In the case of pets, strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium animalis, and Enterococcus faecium are commonly found in canine supplements, helping to balance gut flora. 

They are surprisingly easy to find and come in various forms, including powders, chews, and fortified foods. They are especially valuable in the summer, when heat, stress, or new environments (like travel or dog parks) can disrupt digestion.  Recognized by the American Kennel Club, here are a few common benefits. 

• Improved Digestion. Probiotics enhance nutrient breakdown, reducing issues like diarrhea or bloating. A 2009 study found that Bifidobacterium animalis cut diarrhea duration in dogs from seven to four days. 

• Immune Support. About 70 percent of a dog’s immune system resides in the gut, making probiotics a frontline defense against infections, according to the Canine Health Center.

• Stress Relief. Summer stressors like fireworks or travel can disrupt gut-brain communication, leading to anxiety-related digestive issues. Probiotics may help stabilize this connection, promoting calmer behavior. 

• Better Than Antibiotics. Pet owners are moving away from antibiotics, which can foster resistant bacteria, and toward probiotics as safer alternatives. A 2022 review in The Journal of Basic and Applied Zoology highlighted probiotics as effective substitutes for antibiotics in managing gut health.

Many veterinarians endorse this shift. For example, Dr. Joseph Wakshlag of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University cited several studies that demonstrate the efficacy of probiotic products like FortiFlora and Proviable in reducing diarrhea while boosting gut health. Some pet owners have attributed probiotics to having other positive effects, including “improving a bulldog’s allergies and stomach issues.” 

There are plenty of things to consider before introducing probiotics into your pet’s diet, and it’s always best to consult your vet. A few key points to consider include strain specificity, colony-forming units, quality assurance, and administration. 

What organics are good for dogs?

Organic treats may be even more accessible and beneficial. They’re simply treats made from ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs, meeting standards set by the USDA or Non-GMO Project. Many of them feature high-quality proteins (like organic chicken or salmon) and natural flavors, appealing to owners who want clean, sustainable options for their dogs. 

Awareness is driving the market. Right now, the organic pet treat market is expected to grow at 7.8 percent annually through 2030, fueled by the humanization of pets, given that 85 percent of owners view their dogs as family, according to a 2025 Nielsen survey. Here are a few common benefits: 

• Reduced Allergens. Organic treats avoid artificial additives, which can trigger allergies or skin issues worsened by heat.

• Digestive Health. Ingredients like organic pumpkin or sweet potato are gentle on the stomach, which is ideal for summer sensitivities.

• Hydration Support. Freeze-dried organic treats or broth-based chews add moisture, helping prevent dehydration.

• Sustainability. Brands like Open Farm emphasize eco-friendly sourcing, resonating with environmentally conscious owners.

When choosing organic treats, always verify the certification, limit portions, tailor them to your pet’s needs, and store them properly. It’s also prudent to introduce treats gradually and monitor for reactions, such as bloating, which can sometimes occur. 

Probiotics and organics for pets. 

With very few downsides other than price, prioritizing nutrition keeps pets ready for every adventure. Both are science-backed, natural ways to support gut health, immunity, and overall wellness. Even if it’s just a little probiotic powder added to kibble or rewarding your pup with an organic treat, modernized nutrition can make a big difference. 

Just remember to avoid human probiotics for pets, as they may contain unsuitable strains or lactose, which many animals can’t digest. It’s equally important to consult your vet before starting probiotics, specifically. Bacterial loads could pose risks, especially for immuno-compromised dogs. And don’t forget, it’s also a great idea to add your pet’s dietary notes to your pet records. It’s one of the most popular inputs used at All About Spot.