If your dog is dealing with loose stools, gas, or a stomach that seems to have a mind of its own, Pro Plan FortiFlora is our top pick — it's vet-recommended, works fast, and dogs actually eat it. Here's how it stacks up against PetLab Co.'s probiotic chew and which one is right for your situation.
FortiFlora has been around for years and is the probiotic most vets actually hand out samples of — that alone tells you something. The chewable tablet form (newer than the original powder) makes it dead simple to use: just hand it over like a treat. It contains Enterococcus faecium SF68, a well-studied strain specifically for GI support in dogs, and most owners see results within a few days of consistent use.
It's not a cure-all, and it won't fix underlying issues like parasites or food allergies. But for antibiotic-related diarrhea, dietary indiscretion (yes, your dog ate something gross), or just a generally sensitive stomach, this is the most clinically-backed option on the market. The price per tablet is higher than some alternatives, but you're paying for efficacy that's actually been studied.
PetLab Co.'s probiotic chew is a solid option if you're looking for something to give your dog every single day as a long-term gut maintenance routine. It includes multiple probiotic strains plus a prebiotic fiber blend, which supports a broader gut microbiome than a single-strain product. The soft chew format is genuinely easy to give — most dogs think it's a treat.
Where it falls short is in the acute scenario. If your dog is having active digestive distress right now, FortiFlora is the faster, more targeted fix. PetLab is better framed as prevention and maintenance. It's also a subscription-heavy brand, so watch what you're clicking when you check out — the auto-ship pricing is better but can catch people off guard.
For the majority of pet owners dealing with an upset stomach, loose stool, or antibiotic recovery, Pro Plan FortiFlora is the one to reach for first. It has decades of clinical backing, vets trust it, and it works. The chewable version makes daily dosing painless.
If your dog has a chronically sensitive gut and you're looking for something to give daily for the long haul, PetLab Co. is worth considering as a complement or alternative. But if you can only pick one? FortiFlora.
Get FortiFlora on Amazon →For acute issues like diarrhea or gas, many dogs show improvement within 2 to 5 days of consistent use. FortiFlora in particular tends to act quickly. For general gut health maintenance, give it at least 3 to 4 weeks before deciding if it's making a difference. Probiotics aren't instant fixes — they're working with your dog's microbiome, which takes time to shift.
Yes, and for dogs with recurring digestive issues, daily use is often recommended. FortiFlora is typically dosed daily at one tablet per day. PetLab Co.'s chews are specifically designed for daily long-term use. Always follow the dosing on the label and check with your vet if your dog has any underlying health conditions or is on medication.
No — and you should not give your dog human probiotic supplements. The bacterial strains that benefit dogs are different from those studied in humans, and human probiotic capsules often contain additives, sweeteners like xylitol, or dosages that aren't appropriate for dogs. Stick to products formulated specifically for dogs with strains like Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus acidophilus, or Bifidobacterium animalis.